We live in a time where AI predicts market trends, IT infrastructures keep us connected across continents, and automation handles tasks once thought impossible for machines. Yet, despite these leaps forward, we’re still plagued by only what seems like the same old tech frustrations, glitches, and issues that can disrupt business operations.
Let’s dive into the most common IT issues of 2024 that businesses are still contending with, and explore how to stay one step ahead.
Slow internet connection
Few things are as frustrating as a sluggish network, but this issue continues to persist today and it can derail entire workdays if left unchecked. Slow internet connection can be attributed to various factors, such as outdated equipment or insufficient internet bandwidth caused by too many processes and devices competing for it. Even something as simple as how Wi-Fi routers are laid out can affect network speed and internet access. The problem may also lie with the internet service provider (ISP) or the location of the business.
To prevent these technical issues, businesses must thoroughly audit and optimize their networks. This can involve upgrading hardware, implementing load balancing techniques, and ensuring proper network coverage throughout the office space. In cases where the problem lies with the ISP, businesses may need to consider switching to a more reliable and faster provider or request an upgrade in their plan.
Password troubles and login issues
With the increasing emphasis on cybersecurity, businesses generally require employees to use longer and more complex passwords that are unique to each account. While this is a necessary measure, it can also lead to password fatigue — a condition where people struggle to remember their passwords due to their sheer number and complexity. This can result in frequent calls to the help desk for password resets, which not only wastes time but also increases the risk of employees resorting to weak or easily guessable passwords.
The best solution for password headaches is to implement password managers that securely store and generate passwords for employees. Businesses should also consider implementing single sign-on solutions that allow employees to securely access multiple accounts with a single set of credentials. Meanwhile, self-service password recovery options, such as using biometrics or security questions, can also help alleviate password fatigue and reduce the need for frequent resets.
Faulty hardware
Even the fastest and most reliable computers will eventually become slow and faulty. The underlying hardware is often one of the most likely culprits, as dust, wear and tear, and outdated components can all contribute to decreased functionality and slow performance. At the same time, advanced software and applications are becoming increasingly demanding on system resources, which can increase the risk of error messages and the dreaded blue screen of death.
Owners can extend the life of computers through regular maintenance, which can involve cleaning out dust and debris from the hardware, updating drivers and firmware, and replacing outdated components. However, if a computer is over five years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer model with more advanced capabilities. Another solution could be implementing virtual desktop infrastructure that centralizes computing power and reduces the strain on individual machines.
Constant updates and patches
Software applications are always upgrading, with new versions and updates being released to improve functionality, fix bugs, and patch security vulnerabilities. While these updates are necessary for the overall health and security of a system, they can also be a nuisance for businesses that rely on multiple applications. Updating one application may cause compatibility issues with others or require a restart of the system, leading to downtime and lost productivity.
Managing company-wide updates requires a centralized IT asset management system that tracks software versions and schedules updates during nonpeak hours. Additionally, businesses should consider creating a recovery plan in case of any unexpected issues or incompatibilities that may arise after an update.
Cyberattacks
Despite concerted efforts to enhance cybersecurity measures and awareness, the threat of cyberattacks continues to loom over every business in 2024. This is largely because cybercriminals are constantly innovating, devising new tactics to infiltrate systems, disrupt operations, and acquire sensitive data. Phishing scams, denial-of-service attacks, and ransomware are just some of the common methods used by hackers to target businesses today, but it’s not just external threats that businesses need to worry about. Internal data breaches caused by disgruntled employees or human error also pose a significant risk.
Although there’s no way to eliminate all cyberattacks off the face of the earth, businesses can still mitigate the risks with a strong cybersecurity framework. Installing proven measures such as strong firewalls, endpoint management software, multifactor authentication, access controls, and incident response plans can significantly reduce the likelihood and impact of a cyberattack. Regular training and education for employees on cybersecurity best practices is also crucial in maintaining a strong defense against both external and internal security breaches.
Data loss
Whether it’s due to a hardware failure, a cyberattack, or user error, losing data and trying to recover from it can take a huge chunk of time and resources. However, with reliable data backup solutions and multiple recovery options in place, businesses can restore deleted files and critical operations as if nothing happened.
Backup solutions can range from off-site servers for full system backups to cloud-based storage systems that automatically save the most recent versions of files and folders. Businesses should also consider implementing data recovery protocols to quickly retrieve lost or corrupted data with minimal disruption.
Shadow IT
If companies are still using inefficient and outdated software, employees may be driven to find and use their own tools and applications, also known as shadow IT. The problem is that these unsanctioned apps and tools may not meet the company’s security standards and lack proper integration with existing systems, complicating system management.
Unless businesses want to be in a constant state of chaos, they need to address shadow IT by providing employees with user-friendly, secure, and up-to-date software solutions that meet their specific needs. Businesses must regularly review their technology and encourage open communication between IT and other departments to address what’s lacking and find a solution that works for everyone. Additionally, educating employees on the risks of using unauthorized apps and tools can mitigate the issue.
The consequences these computer problems can have on a business’s bottom line and productivity can be devastating, but reliable IT professionals prevent them from happening in the first place. Dynamic Solutions Group provides comprehensive IT support services to help businesses stay on top of their technology, minimize downtime, and improve overall system performance. Reach out to our team today to put common IT issues behind you.
