Is it Time to Replace your Computer?
We are constantly upgrading their technology. I mean, just take a look at how many people upgrade their phone every year even though innovation of the devices has slowed considerably. Alternatively, sometimes users ignore the signs that it is time for an upgrade even when they are crystal clear. This type of mentality will not help you, especially if your technology breaks down. Businesses need a hardware refresh plan so that old devices can be replaced seamlessly with better, more powerful ones.
Establish a Hardware Refresh Plan
A hardware refresh plan for businesses is a strategic approach to regularly updating and replacing the organization's IT hardware. This includes computers, servers, networking equipment, and other related technology. The goal is to ensure that the business remains productive, secure, and efficient by utilizing up-to-date and reliable hardware. Key components of a hardware refresh plan include: an assessment of current hardware, lifecycle management, budget planning, vendor and product selection, an implementation plan and disposal of old hardware.
Not sure when to replace your computers? You're aren't alone. Here are three tips that you can keep in the back of your mind for the next time you think you need to replace your technology at your small business.
Considerable Slowdown
Over time, your computer might experience a bit of a slowdown. This is to be expected, especially as more powerful devices are released and you constantly have to compare your own device experiences with those of your coworkers. There isn’t much you can do about device slowdown over an extended period of time, so if it becomes too much to handle and it is harder to keep up with your daily tasks, then perhaps it’s time to consider an upgrade.
Lower Productivity
Your device is going to experience some wear and tear over time, but when it starts to impact your ability to be productive in the workplace, you know it’s time to start thinking about an update. If your computer starts to crash periodically throughout the workday, or you are constantly dealing with related hardware issues that keep you from doing your job the way you’re supposed to, start considering your path to a device update or upgrade.
Incompatibility with Application Upgrades or Security Patches
This is the most obvious sign that it’s time to upgrade your device. If your devices are no longer supported by patches and security updates, continued use of these devices could lead to security breaches or sensitive data being stolen. You can bet that hackers will take any opportunity they can get to spread viruses, malware, or other threats to your device, so you need to use this opportunity to crush their dreams by updating your device or upgrading to a new model.
Of course, there is also the possibility that the device simply needs some repairs or regularly scheduled maintenance to get back into tip-top shape. This is especially the case for desktop workstations, as there are many components that go into making them tick. We urge you to speak with your IT department or outsourced IT partner before committing to a full-blown replacement or upgrade of your device, whatever it happens to be.
A Managed Service Provider will help your business develop a hardware refresh plan, upgrade devices or procure new ones as needed, no matter where you are in the process. Whether you need to discard older devices, properly wipe the data on them, or start from scratch from new, we’ve got your back! Reach out to us to learn how we can help!
