As another year comes to a close, now is the perfect time to take stock of your technology. Much like an annual physical, an IT checkup helps ensure your systems are healthy, secure, and ready for what’s ahead.
Whether you manage a school, creative agency, or manufacturing operation, taking time to evaluate your IT infrastructure now can save you major headaches later. Here’s a simple checklist to help you prepare your technology for 2026:
- Review Your Hardware and Devices
Take inventory of your computers, servers, and network equipment. Are they running efficiently, or starting to slow down? Outdated devices can create productivity bottlenecks and expose your network to unnecessary security risks.
- Audit Software and Licensing
Check that your business applications are up to date and properly licensed. Unused software can quietly drain your budget, while missing updates can create vulnerabilities.
- Test Your Backups
Backups are only valuable if they actually work. Run a test restore to confirm your data is recoverable and that backups are occurring on the right schedule.
- Evaluate Your Cybersecurity
Assess your antivirus, firewalls, and access controls. Are employees using strong passwords and multifactor authentication? Is your cybersecurity training current? A strong foundation now prevents costly breaches later.
- Review Your Vendor Relationships
From cloud services to managed IT, evaluate whether your vendors are delivering value and alignment with your goals. If not, it may be time for a change.
- Plan for 2026 IT Goals
Once you’ve reviewed the essentials, look ahead. Do you have upcoming growth, new locations, or technology upgrades on the horizon? Build those plans into your 2026 IT roadmap now.
A year-end IT checkup isn’t just about maintenance — it’s about setting your business up for success. When your systems are healthy, your people can stay focused on what they do best. At SYAND, we help organizations close out the year with confidence. If you’re ready to enter 2026 with a stronger, smarter tech foundation, our team is here to help you get there.
