FAQ
What is the best anti-virus?
At Active our first question is to ask if you have anti-virus installed. In this day and age it is important to have anti-virus software installed. Although there are many types of Anti-virus software on the market we recommend SOPHOS anti-virus.
How long should my laptop last?
Like anything it depends on how you care for it. If you maintain it properly and service it regularly like your car then you will prolong its life. However we generally recommend 3-5years as an average lifespan.
How should I back-up?
Whatever you do make sure you back-up all important files. There are two main methods, tape and online back-up. It really depends on the type of information you are backing up and the systems you are running. Online back-up is now becoming more widespread and takes away the hassle of remembering to put tapes in and out. For an online solution we recommend Clunk Click online back-up.
What computer systems do I need for my business?
If you unsure of what is right for your business read our ‘Business owners guide’. This should help you ask the right questions and set off in the right direction. We are always more than happy to meet up and talk you through what systems you need for your business.
Do I need a server?
The rule of thumb is that if you have more than a couple of PCs then it is worth considering, but it also depends upon what you use your PCs for. A server gives you somewhere secure to store your documents, allows access by more than one person, and will usually give you full control of your email as well
Could I get away with a friend looking after my IT?
A friend that knows about IT can be a big bonus, but it can also be a big disaster if they don’t really know what they are doing, or they create you a system that only they know about and then go on holiday or fall sick. Best to use a professional IT company, but get the friend’s advice to ensure you are not being ripped off.
Is my business outgrowing my IT systems?
The answer to this question will depend upon whether IT is holding back your business or helping it grow. If you (or your staff) spend time working on the IT, or if they waste time because the IT systems are not efficient, then yes you are outgrowing them. If your IT does everything you need, and it does it when you need it, then don’t change it, spend time working on your business instead.
Is IT support going to be expensive?
Not as expensive as not having it! IT failures can completely wreck businesses in an instant. Support packages needn’t be expensive and are much better for your business than waiting for IT to go wrong before taking action.
Will the system allow my business to grow or will I have to upgrade?
This depends upon the rate of growth expected, and where you start from. Allowing room for growth in a system is always advisable, but because IT prices generally come down and performance goes up, it may be better to have a planned lifecycle which includes replacement after a few years. This means you don’t have to spend as much to start with and you spend less on maintenance, as well as allowing you to grow the system in line with the business.
At Active our first question is to ask if you have anti-virus installed. In this day and age it is important to have anti-virus software installed. Although there are many types of Anti-virus software on the market we recommend SOPHOS anti-virus.
How long should my laptop last?
Like anything it depends on how you care for it. If you maintain it properly and service it regularly like your car then you will prolong its life. However we generally recommend 3-5years as an average lifespan.
How should I back-up?
Whatever you do make sure you back-up all important files. There are two main methods, tape and online back-up. It really depends on the type of information you are backing up and the systems you are running. Online back-up is now becoming more widespread and takes away the hassle of remembering to put tapes in and out. For an online solution we recommend Clunk Click online back-up.
What computer systems do I need for my business?
If you unsure of what is right for your business read our ‘Business owners guide’. This should help you ask the right questions and set off in the right direction. We are always more than happy to meet up and talk you through what systems you need for your business.
Do I need a server?
The rule of thumb is that if you have more than a couple of PCs then it is worth considering, but it also depends upon what you use your PCs for. A server gives you somewhere secure to store your documents, allows access by more than one person, and will usually give you full control of your email as well
Could I get away with a friend looking after my IT?
A friend that knows about IT can be a big bonus, but it can also be a big disaster if they don’t really know what they are doing, or they create you a system that only they know about and then go on holiday or fall sick. Best to use a professional IT company, but get the friend’s advice to ensure you are not being ripped off.
Is my business outgrowing my IT systems?
The answer to this question will depend upon whether IT is holding back your business or helping it grow. If you (or your staff) spend time working on the IT, or if they waste time because the IT systems are not efficient, then yes you are outgrowing them. If your IT does everything you need, and it does it when you need it, then don’t change it, spend time working on your business instead.
Is IT support going to be expensive?
Not as expensive as not having it! IT failures can completely wreck businesses in an instant. Support packages needn’t be expensive and are much better for your business than waiting for IT to go wrong before taking action.
Will the system allow my business to grow or will I have to upgrade?
This depends upon the rate of growth expected, and where you start from. Allowing room for growth in a system is always advisable, but because IT prices generally come down and performance goes up, it may be better to have a planned lifecycle which includes replacement after a few years. This means you don’t have to spend as much to start with and you spend less on maintenance, as well as allowing you to grow the system in line with the business.
