Any form of physical tech product falls into the business hardware category. This includes video cards, laptops, storage devices, desktop computers, printers, servers, telephony devices and portable storage devices (hard disks, flash cards, floppy disks, etc.)

Most, if not all, modern businesses are built on IT infrastructure, with the internet as the centerpiece. What used to be an addition to running a business has become the sole focus for the advancement of most companies. But what good will access to the internet do without up-to-date business hardware?

Investing in hardware helps smooth business operations, and knowing when to update, repair or replace them is vital in ensuring your software and data remain safe and unharmed.

How Often Should You Update Your Business Hardware?

Regular updates to your hardware ensure optimum functionality and smooth running of a business. It also helps you assess the damage to the hardware and what measures to take, whether to replace or repair it.

While most hardware can last up to 10 years, updating, upgrading, repairing, and replacing your equipment every 3-5 years is advisable. This is because, after the third year, most hardware may experience increased breakdowns.

A study by Business News Daily shows that most laptops and computers have three to five years of lifespan. A similar study was conducted by HP, one of the world’s leading computer hardware and software manufacturers. Their findings stated that, on average, computers could maintain optimum functionality for up to three years.

Benefits of Updating Your Business Hardware

Access to new features

Updating your hardware gives you access to the latest features. This could range from new design capabilities to updated security features. Access to these features could help your business keep up with the competition while maintaining its high standards and cutting-edge image.

Improved customer service

Technology plays a crucial role in providing excellent customer service. It would be frustrating to customers trying to reach you through outdated technology. They may take their business elsewhere. Updating your business hardware helps you provide the best service to your customers.

Increased security

Outdated hardware or software programs are more susceptible to hacking and viruses. This is mainly because they’ve been around longer, and their security vulnerabilities are exposed. Updated or new programs, on the other hand, are more secure, thus preventing ransomware and cyber-attacks from happening.

Enhanced collaboration

Outdated business hardware makes it difficult to update newer software programs, often designed to foster collaboration. The ability to easily collaborate promotes better communication, effectiveness and efficient completion of tasks and projects. This, in turn, increases the company’s chance for success.

When to Update Your Business Hardware

There are a few signs to look out for when replacing your hardware:

• When you start running out of space for storage
• When you can’t install new software or the latest versions of the necessary software
• When your machines become slow, leading to employee frustration and low productivity.
• When your employees have to always be at their desks since the only working hardware is at the workstation
• When you experience frequent breakdowns

Here at Thinline Technologies, we provide you with professionals able to diagnose and give you feedback on the health of your hardware and update it for you.

For a reliable and trustworthy managed service provider in Baltimore, call us directly at 410-453-9300 or contact us through our easy contact form today!