7 Most Common Technology Problems Small Businesses Face

most common technology problems small businesses face tech issues

When we think about the most common small business problems, resources are the first thought that comes to mind. Small companies struggle with financial, marketing, and logistics resources. However, there is one aspect that’s often neglected: they also face technology problems. 

Can a business thrive without technology today? No. Do all businesses have teams that are ready to solve all problems with technology? That’s where the issues arise. All brands have expanded needs to meet tech goals, but their teams are not up for the challenge. 

We’ll list the common tech problems small businesses face, along with potential solutions. When you understand these issues, you’ll be able to prevent them from happening. 

7 Common Small Business Problems With Technology

1. An Unstable Internet Connection 

Connection failure is the worst thing that could happen during an important business call. The issue usually comes from the provider’s side, but you need to know how to test it and make it work. 

The first thing you need to learn is how to ping on Mac computers. It’s a simple process that shows the problem in your connection. You’ll find the Ping tab in Network Utility. Enter the web address that you’re trying to access, and you’ll get a report that shows the quality of your connection. If it’s above 50 ms, you should contact your provider to solve the issue. 

2. Data Protection Issues 

Small business owners often don’t bother about keeping confidential business information safe. They keep all personal data, payment information, and sensitive files on their computer, without additional security measures. Data breaches do happen, and they are among the most serious problems small businesses face. 

To prevent this from happening, you need an extra layer of security on your computer. Pay for a good antivirus program! You can talk to an IT expert, so you’ll learn how to keep data safe. It’s best to store sensitive data on an external hard drive, which you’ll keep in a well-protected place that only you can access. 

3. Cyber Attacks 

Your website is extremely valuable, especially if it’s an eCommerce store. A hacker may attack it and steal sensitive customer data. They may also ask for ransom. For a small business, these technology problems are devastating, since they make the customers lose their trust in the brand. 

This is why your website needs several layers of protection. Don’t try to save money when developing it. Pay a remote team to perform frequent security checks and update the protocols when needed! 

4. Lack Of Protection Against Power Interruptions 

The problems with technology aren’t only related to computers. Small business owners often forget to bother with power supply issues. When the power goes off in the middle of a working day, they may face inconvenient interruptions. If it’s a store with people in it, some items will inevitably go missing. 

Power interruptions may occur from high voltage power surges, so a surge protector is the first solution. You should also get a voltage regulator, which will protect your computers from periods of insufficient power. A back-up generator or UPS (uninterruptible power supply) is a good idea, too. It will provide you with electricity in occurrences of power failures. 

5. Outdated Software 

You paid for the business software years ago and never updated it? It’s no wonder why your brand is facing problems with technology. 

Small business owners rarely think about updating their software and processes. They are convinced that they work as they are. But if you have an in-house IT team, they can work on software updates all the time. This would give you an edge over the competitors. Your business processes will be faster and more effective. If you don’t have an IT team, you can hire remote workers when you need them. 

6. Lack Of Data Backup 

Can you imagine losing all valuable data? It can happen. Your main computer’s hard drive may be damaged. All devices in the office may suffer damage from floods, fires, or earthquakes. Data can also be lost during a cyber attack. 

A robust backup is essential. You can store important data on a safe cloud service or an external hard drive. 

7. An Incompetent Team 

Even if you don’t plan to establish an IT department for your business, you still need to hire people with IT skills. Many managers forget to do that. They focus on the sales and management department. When the tech issues occur, no one knows what to do. 

You should invest in employee training. All your employees need basic IT skills, so they will know how to use the software you provide for the company. You can also collaborate with a good remote IT team, which will carry your brand through all common problems small businesses face. 

Don’t fall into a trap thinking that you can save money on tech training, software, and security for your brand. This is one of the most important investments you can make for your business. Small brands often face technology issues, which are easy to avoid. Now you know how to prevent them!

James Dorian is a technical copywriter. He is a tech geek who knows a lot about modern apps that will make your work more productive. James reads tons of online blogs on technology, business, and ways to become a real pro in our modern world of innovations.

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