Our top reminders to ensure your equipment and systems are how you left them when you return.

1. Backup Your Data

Your data is invaluable. Your data must be backed up throughout the year, but especially while your office will be closed. The equipment can be replaced, but the data collected over the years cannot.

Employing a 3-2-1 backup approach is our recommendation for safeguarding your data against loss or corruption. Keeping a minimum of three copies of data, with two copies on different storage media (digital and tape) and one copy stored offsite.

2. Power Down & Unplug

Turning off the devices does not completely stop them from receiving power from the sockets. Unplug all devices that are not essential to your operations, to prevent damage from any of the many power problems that occur thanks to our frequent summer storms such as sags, surges, and spikes.

3. Check Cooling/Power Systems

If you have a server room on-site, ensure that the room has an air-conditioner that is not turned off when employees depart. Also confirm that your Uninterruptible Power Supply batteries have been tested/replaced within the last 2 years, to continue to protect your equipment from those previously mentioned power problems. Discuss server monitoring with us to ensure prompt action and recovery in the event of overheating or power supply issues.

4. Secure Your Equipment

Without regular foot traffic, abandoned gadgets may be all too attractive for burglars. Reduce the risk by securing all portable devices and obscuring the view of other items with curtains or shutters. Make sure your alarm is activated when the final team member leaves the office and if you have security patrols, let them know your closure dates to schedule additional patrols.

5. Update Your Systems

Your computer will be vulnerable to newly released viruses and other malicious software when you return. In your inbox, you will likely find a larger than usual number of scam emails. Before opening emails or visiting the web, it is crucial to download system and security updates on your system to protect your data and computer programs from newly discovered threats.

By taking these precautions before departing for the holidays and when you return, you can ensure that your data is secure and that your business will be operating normally upon your return.

Don’t Stress Over Christmas

Christmas and New Years’ are occasions for festivities, leisure, and enjoyment. Altitude Innovations will be working throughout the holidays to ensure that the IT infrastructure of our valued Clients is kept secure and operational.

While your team is enjoying their vacation, we can assist with any of the following proactive protection tasks, and more:

• Reviewing your current backup systems, ensuring that they’re going to provide fast and accurate recoveries as needed.
• Reviewing your disaster management plan to ensure that your systems have a failsafe in the case of theft, natural disaster, or ransomware/hacking.
• Updating devices to ensure your IT fleet is as hassle free as possible.
• Sizing, installing, and maintaining adequate power protection systems to ride out those violent summer storms and prevent damage to your valuable equipment.

Ready to have someone else take on the stress of looking after your IT systems over the holidays? Contact Altitude Innovations today to discuss your businesses needs for Christmas, New Years and beyond!