Top IT Questions Atlanta SMBs Ask
Small business owners wear many hats—but IT expert doesn’t have to be one of them. If you’ve ever asked, “Why is our Wi-Fi so slow?” or “Do I really need cybersecurity?” — you’re not alone. We’ve rounded up the most common IT questions Atlanta small businesses ask, and provided simple, direct answers.
1. Why is our internet so slow?
Slow internet is one of the top complaints we hear from businesses across Atlanta.
Here’s what to check:
- Router/modem age (more than 3 years? Replace it!)
- How many devices are connected at once
- Is your ISP giving you enough bandwidth?
- Are software updates running during business hours?
🔧 Pro tip: Use a Managed IT provider to monitor your network 24/7 and catch issues before they slow you down.
2. How can we keep our business data safe?
Key layers include:
- Firewall & endpoint protection
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Regular backups (preferably offsite/cloud)
- Staff training on phishing & scams
Atlanta’s small businesses are increasingly being targeted by cybercriminals—don’t assume you’re too small to be at risk.
3. Do we really need IT support if we’re a small company?
Why it matters:
- Faster recovery from tech issues
- Protection from security threats
- Avoid costly downtime
- Better productivity with the right tools
Most small businesses in Georgia can’t afford to lose a day to IT problems—and that’s what Managed IT Services help prevent.
4. What’s the difference between break-fix and managed IT services?
| Break-Fix | Managed IT |
|---|---|
| Call for help when something breaks | Continuous support, monitoring & updates |
| Reactive | Proactive |
| Unpredictable costs | Fixed monthly fee |
| No long-term strategy | Strategic IT planning included |
💡 Managed IT = fewer surprises and lower total costs.
5. How do we know if our backups are working?
Best practices:
- Set automatic, daily backups
- Store them securely in the cloud
- Test restores monthly
- Keep multiple versions in case of ransomware
Ask your IT provider for a backup report to stay confident.
6. Should we let employees use their own devices for work (BYOD)?
It’s convenient, but risky without controls.
Secure BYOD setup includes:
- Device encryption
- App-level protection (like Microsoft Intune)
- Remote wipe capability
- Clear Acceptable Use Policies
🔒 Every personal device connected to your network is a potential entry point for cyber threats.
7. We’re moving offices—how should we plan the IT setup?
Your checklist:
- Assess new building’s cabling & internet availability
- Plan network layout in advance
- Schedule downtime (if any) outside of business hours
- Coordinate with your MSP for a smooth transition
📦 IT relocation done wrong can mean days of lost business. Always involve your IT team ASAP.
8. What’s phishing, and how can we stop it?
Phishing is when attackers trick you (usually by email) into clicking something bad or giving up credentials.
How to protect your team:
- Train employees regularly
- Use email filters & spam protection
- Enable MFA
- Simulate phishing attacks for practice
9. Do we need to comply with any data regulations?
If you collect or store sensitive customer data—yes. Depending on your industry, you might need to comply with:
- HIPAA (healthcare)
- PCI DSS (retail/payments)
- GDPR or CCPA (if handling data from other states/countries)
A Managed IT provider can help ensure you’re compliant and avoid fines.
10. How do we choose the right IT partner in Atlanta?
Great question—and a critical one.
Look for:
- Local support with fast response times
- Industry experience in your field
- Cybersecurity expertise
- Transparent pricing
- Strong references from other Atlanta businesses
A true IT partner doesn’t just fix things—they help you grow, stay protected, and plan for the future.
Bonus: What Should Be in an IT Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)?
An AUP is a must-have for any business. It sets the rules for how your technology and data should be used.
Include rules for:
- Personal use of company devices
- Password security
- Data access & sharing
- Remote work standards
- Reporting suspicious behavior
📄 Ask your MSP to help draft or review your AUP annually.
Key Takeaways for Atlanta SMBs
- ✅ Slow internet, lack of backups, and phishing threats are common problems with simple fixes
- ✅ Managed IT Services give you predictable support and better cybersecurity
- ✅ Don’t wait until there’s a tech emergency—plan ahead and ask for help when you need it
Need Answers Tailored to Your Business?
We’re here to help. Whether you run a law firm, real estate agency, manufacturing shop, or nonprofit—your tech questions matter. We speak in plain English and provide solutions you can count on.
Related Contents:
- Who’s Granting App Access in Your Business?
- 5 Signs Your Atlanta Business Needs Better IT Support
- Top 10 Cybersecurity Threats Facing Atlanta SMBs
💬 Ready for Reliable IT Support?
To learn more about how trueITpros can help your company with Small Business IT Support in Atlanta, contact us at www.trueitpros.com/contact
