Setting Up a New Office? Basic IT Checklist for Small Businesses
Related Content: How IT Managed Services Handle Data Breaches
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Setting up a new office? Follow this essential IT checklist for small businesses in Atlanta to ensure a secure, efficient, and reliable tech setup.
Introduction
Starting a new office is exciting, but without the right IT setup, your business could face unnecessary headaches. Whether you’re in law practice, real estate, financial services, or other industries, having a solid IT foundation is crucial for productivity and security.
This guide simplifies the process into an easy-to-follow IT checklist for small businesses in Atlanta, Georgia. From internet setup to cybersecurity, here’s everything you need to get started.
1. Set Up a Reliable Internet Connection
A fast and stable internet connection is the backbone of any business. Here’s how to get it right:
- Choose a business-grade internet service – Residential plans may not offer enough speed or reliability.
- Compare providers in Atlanta – Consider AT&T Business, Comcast Business, or Google Fiber.
- Decide on the bandwidth – More employees and cloud-based applications require higher speeds.
- Install a backup internet connection – A secondary connection prevents costly downtime.
Pro Tip:
Look for an ISP that offers a Service Level Agreement (SLA) guaranteeing uptime and support.
2. Set Up a Secure Wi-Fi Network
- Invest in a high-quality router – Business routers provide better performance and security.
- Create separate networks – One for employees and another for guests.
- Use WPA3 encryption – Ensures secure connections and prevents unauthorized access.
- Regularly update firmware – Keeps security patches up to date.
- Set up a firewall – Protects against cyber threats.
3. Secure Your Computers and Devices
Small businesses are prime targets for cybercriminals. Take these steps to secure your systems:
- Use business-grade computers – Avoid consumer models, which have limited security features.
- Enable automatic updates – Ensures operating systems and software are patched against vulnerabilities.
- Create strong password policies – Require complex passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Restrict administrative access – Only essential personnel should have admin privileges.
- Use endpoint security software – Protects devices from malware and phishing attacks.
Did You Know?
Over 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses. Having a Managed IT Service provider helps prevent breaches.
4. Install and Maintain Cybersecurity Software
- Install business-grade antivirus and anti-malware software.
- Use email security tools – Helps prevent phishing and spam attacks.
- Implement a VPN – Protects remote workers by encrypting their internet traffic.
- Train employees on cybersecurity best practices.
5. Set Up Printers and Other Office Equipment
- Use network-enabled printers – Allows multiple users to connect easily.
- Secure printer settings – Change default passwords and enable encryption.
- Regularly update firmware – Prevents vulnerabilities.
- Enable print tracking – Helps monitor usage and prevent unauthorized access.
6. Arrange Data Backup and Recovery Solutions
- Use cloud storage services – Solutions like Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox.
- Set up automatic backups – Ensure critical files are backed up daily.
- Keep a local backup – Store data on an external drive or network-attached storage (NAS).
- Test your backup system – Regularly restore files to verify backup integrity.
Pro Tip:
Use Managed IT Services for automated backup and disaster recovery solutions.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Setting up an office doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following this IT checklist, your business will have a secure, efficient, and future-ready technology setup.
Looking for expert help with Managed IT Services in Atlanta?
To learn more about how trueITpros can help your company with Managed IT Services in Atlanta, contact us at www.trueitpros.com/contact.
