Most IT losses aren't dramatic. They build up slowly: a backup that hasn't actually worked in months, a former employee's account that still has access, a server nobody wants to touch. Here are the five risks we find most often when we assess a new environment.
1. Backups nobody has tested
A backup job that reports "success" is not the same as a backup you can restore. We regularly find jobs that skip open files, exclude critical databases, or write to storage that ransomware can reach. Test a real restore at least quarterly and keep one copy offline or immutable.
2. Accounts that outlive employees
Offboarding is often a checklist that stops at the laptop. Email, VPN, line-of-business apps and shared passwords stay live. Tie account removal to your HR process and review privileged accounts monthly.
3. Missing multi-factor authentication
Stolen passwords are still the most common way in. MFA on email, remote access and admin portals blocks the overwhelming majority of credential attacks for very little cost.
4. Unpatched and unsupported systems
Out-of-support operating systems and firmware stop receiving security fixes. They also tend to be the machines running the most important software. Maintain an inventory, patch on a schedule, and plan replacements before end-of-life dates.
5. No one owning IT
When IT is everyone's side job, it becomes no one's responsibility. Decisions get made reactively and costs climb. A managed services partner gives you clear ownership, documented processes and a roadmap.
Want to know where your business stands? Our free IT risk assessment covers all five areas and gives you a prioritized action plan.