Sometimes myths are harmless, but when it comes to business IT myths, not knowing the truth can be damaging. Make smarter tech decisions with accurate information and a better understanding of IT. This article debunks seven common business IT myths.

Myth 1 – Consumer PCs are as good as business PCs.

Sorry, this one is false. Selecting a business-grade computer can impact productivity. Do not squander your competitive advantage by relying on consumer PCs to get the job done.

Consumer PCs are largely about getting the price point down by using lower-quality materials, whereas business computers are built to last by use higher-quality components and go through more testing. They also come with Windows Pro rather than the Windows Home edition and have other business-appropriate features such as hard drive encryption and fingerprint readers. They also come with better warranties and usually include onsite support.

Myth 2 – Apple Mac’s can’t get viruses.

Microsoft Windows users are targeted more often because there are more Microsoft users and the payoff is bigger. Windows PCs also run any program requested, regardless of the potential danger, whereas Apple has steps in place to prevent unauthorized malware from running.

Saying the above though may make you think that this myth is true but it is false as despite the extra security features Apple Mac computer can indeed catch viruses.

In fact, in September 2021, Apple released a security update to fix its phones, tablets and watches. Victims did not even have to click on a malicious file to risk device infection! So, if you’re using an Apple device, go into Systems and make sure you’ve upgraded to iOS 14.8, macOS 11.6, and / or watchOS 7.6.2.

Myth 3 – One backup is enough.

In the case of backups, you should follow the 3-2-1 approach to data backup. This involves having three data backups available on at least two different mediums, one of which should be off-site.

Myth 4 – Antivirus software prevents infection.

Antivirus software is invaluable and your business should keep it up to date. But no antivirus is going to protect your business from every threat.

Security programs do their best to keep up with the latest threats and vulnerabilities, but malware is designed to evade these programs. As a result, make antivirus software only one piece of your cybersecurity strategy. You need a multi layered approach to security.

Myth 5 – Cybercriminals only target big companies.

Attacks on enterprises make the headlines, but nearly half of all the cyberattacks hit small businesses. The bad actors know that small businesses are more resource-constrained and don’t have cyberattack prevention plans in place. It is also easier to go after the little fish than targeting the enterprises with large IT teams and security systems.

Myth 6 – It is OK to wait until the computer stops working to replace it!

Long before a computer fails it could be slowing down your business as older PCs disrupt productivity and reduce employee satisfaction.

As the computer ages, you will be losing time loading applications and dealing with crashes. You may also be leaving your systems vulnerable to cyberattack if you can’t upgrade the software.

Myth 7 – IT outsourcing is not effective for small businesses.

Maybe you think your IT systems are too small to need ongoing maintenance or monitoring, or that you are not at risk (see Myth 5 above). Yet, IT systems of any size need consistent ongoing attention and outsourcing can help free up your IT resources to do more value-add tasks.

An IT support provider (or MSP) can monitor hardware and backups, streamline systems for speed, and keep security current. The provider can also manage firewalls, and identify and protect against threats. Partner with us for proactive business IT support by contacting us today!