10 Tech Tips for Small Business Owners in Australia

At Computer Technicians, 95% of our clients are small businesses. Below you’ll find m0st important advices we usually give our clients:

1. Backup all your data

Backup, backup and backup! If you don’t like the cloud, take backups on external hard-drives, NASs or external SSDs.

We recommend a minimum of 3 backups.

If you prefer Cloud backups, we prefer OneDrive or iDrive.

All our technicians are qualified to configure backups and test recovery in case of disasters.

2. Routine IT Maintenance

If you run a small business, there is no need to keep an in-house staff for IT. We offer routine maintenance packages and can look after all your IT needs from desktops, laptops to websites.

3. Use Google Workspace/Microsoft 365

Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 offers state of the art security and defence against emails that contains malicious code and files. They also protect again spam and phishing emails. We highly recommend moving to Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 and can help you do so.

4. Strong Antivirus

In today’s world, it is imperative you use a strong antivirus & malware. This acts as a second layer of protection.

Our technicians are well and capable to recommend and assist you with the installation of an antivirus.

5. Replace default passwords on your Modem/Router

It’s a good practise to replace the default login passwords on your Modem/Router. This protects other devices on your network in the event of a breach.

6. Use Windows login password

We highly recommend setting and using passwords & PINs. This ensure safety incase there is an attack.

7. Upgrade/update systems & software frequently

Updating and upgrading systems and software keeps the bad guys away. They patch security vulnerabilities and locks access to hackers.

8. Use a password manager & enable 2FA.

Use a password manager to save your passwords and enable 2FA for all your services. We use LastPass and highly recommend it.

9. Train your staff on Cyber Awareness

Your technology is only as secure as the people using it. Phishing emails, which are fraudulent messages designed to steal passwords or install malware, are the number one way businesses get hacked in Australia. One click from one employee can compromise your entire network.

What to Teach Your Team

• How to spot phishing emails (urgent language, suspicious sender addresses, unexpected attachments)
• Never click links in emails from unknown senders.
• Report suspicious emails to management rather than deleting them
• Don’t plug in unknown USB drives
• Lock computers when stepping away from the desk
• Only use work-approved cloud storage.

Pro Tip: The ACSC’s ‘Small Business Cyber Security Guide’ is a free, Australian-specific resource worth sharing with your team. Find it at cyber.gov.au.

10. Upgrade your NBN

Upgrade your NBN plan to at least 500 Mbps download speed to ensure smooth connectivity and productivity. Trust me, this make a huge difference.

If you are a small business owner, and require help or advice, get in touch with one of our small business experts.