As a business owner or administrator, it’s challenging to gauge whether your IT provider is effectively managing your technology needs. The technical intricacies behind the scenes often remain a mystery. However, there are key indicators that can help you determine if your IT team is on top of things. This quick “review” will guide you through the essentials to ensure your IT provider is delivering the service you need.
1. Our Backup System Has an Onsite and Offsite Backup
A robust backup strategy is vital. Onsite backups allow for quick recovery, while offsite backups protect against local disasters. Ensure your IT provider has both in place.
2. Our Last Backup Test Was Less Than 3 Months Ago
Regularly testing backups ensures data integrity and recovery capabilities. Your last backup test should have been conducted within the past three months to confirm everything is functioning correctly.
3. There Are Only 2 Domain Admin Accounts (Us and You)
Limiting domain admin accounts reduces security risks. Ensure that only essential personnel, including your IT provider, have these elevated permissions.
4. Our Network Switches and Access Points Can Be Managed Remotely
Remote management of network switches and access points allows for prompt troubleshooting and updates. Confirm that your IT infrastructure supports remote management.
5. Our Firewall Has Active Security Services (If Applicable)
A firewall with active security services, such as intrusion detection and prevention, is crucial for protecting your network. Ensure these services are up and running.
6. Our Guest Wi-Fi Is Segmented from Our Private Network
Segregating guest Wi-Fi from your private network prevents unauthorized access to sensitive data. Check that this network segmentation is implemented.
7. We Have MFA Set Up on All Microsoft 365 Accounts
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) significantly enhances security for Microsoft 365 accounts. Make sure MFA is enabled for all users.
8. We Have a Defined Employee Onboarding and Offboarding Checklist
A structured onboarding and offboarding process ensures that new employees have the access they need and that departing employees’ access is promptly revoked. Verify that such a checklist is in place.
9. All Managed Devices Have an Anti-Virus Installed
Anti-virus software is essential for protecting devices against malware. Confirm that all managed devices are equipped with up-to-date anti-virus solutions.
10. All Managed Devices Have Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Installed
Managed Detection and Response (MDR) provides advanced threat detection and response capabilities. Ensure MDR is installed on all managed devices for enhanced security.
11. We Have Spam Filtering That Will Block or Alert Users If an Email Is a Potential Spoofing Attempt
Effective spam filtering is crucial to prevent phishing and spoofing attempts. Make sure your system can block or alert users to potential spoofing emails.
Final Thoughts
This brief review covers essential elements to ensure your IT provider is effectively managing your technology needs. However, this is just a starting point. Even if all these items are not yet in place, it doesn’t necessarily mean your IT provider has failed. They might have recommended these measures during your Quarterly Business Reviews. If they have, follow their recommendations. If not, it might be time to reach out for a more engaged IT partner.
For more detailed assistance and to ensure your IT infrastructure is robust and secure, contact LANConnect Systems. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of IT management.
