Organizations need computer based systems for their staff to work on and run their business processes. These systems need to be upgraded to the latest versions to increase and maintain their performance and efficiency. Some small businesses do not upgrade their systems in order to avoid the costs of updated versions. Actually, the maintenance of outdated systems costs more than upgrading them.
In this blog, we will discuss the risks and cost associated with not upgrading the systems in the right time. Let’s see what are the risks and cost of using outdated systems in a business.
Security Cost
The outdated systems are prone to security breaches which may lead to loss of your customer’s data and information. The loss of customers information can result in loss of revenue and ultimately business. You can contact an IT support provider like Zero Effort Networking for information on security breaches.
Reduction in Software performance
The cost of upgrading outdated computers is one of the greatest hidden costs. A computer more than six years old incurs double the maintenance cost than is required to maintain a new one. An outdated computer responds poorly to the new software as compared to a new one and requires manual resolution which is expensive. The installation of unauthorized applications also affects the speed and performance of a system.
Reduction in Hardware Performance
It takes some time to fix the software related problems, which costs you money. If the hardware also needs to be replaced it adds to the cost of software. More than four-year-old hardware requires a high cost of maintenance.
Poor Performance
When the performance of your systems deteriorates, it affects the productivity of your employees operating them. In a survey, it was found that one week of productivity is lost in a year due to the use of outdated computers. This is the time out of service cost for repair and maintenance.
Frequent Downtime
The outdated systems experience more frequent downtime as compared to the updated ones. Frequent downtime will make your customers wait till your systems are restored and your staff resumes the tasks. Downtime leads to loss of productivity and your customers might start looking for other options.
Competition
The latest computer systems are 3 to 5 times faster than the outdated computers. Your competitors making use of the latest computers that are capable of multitasking can work 3 to 5 times faster than you. Competitors can give you tough competition in terms of staff productivity and customer attraction.
Energy cost
The outdated systems consume more power. Your staff may not notice your systems consuming a high amount of power but the results may reflect in the energy bill. Upgrading your systems can save you thousands in the power consumption.
Low protection for your data
Outdated computers and operating systems are more vulnerable to malware and cyber attacks. Some small businesses still use Windows XP which came to an end in 2014. Microsoft does not offer support or Windows XP. Moreover, it is most vulnerable to viruses and malware. Therefore using outdated windows can put your business data at high risk of malware and theft. ZEN IT services Sydney offers managed IT support and protection from malware and cyber attacks in Sydney and surroundings.
Lack of latest features and technology
Old computers lack the latest features and technology such as video conferencing, touch screen features, easy sharing of files and 3G / 4G connectivity. The latest operating systems like Windows 10 have the latest features and applications which allow you to run your business from anywhere and stay connected with your partners and customers.
Upgrading your systems in the right time boosts your productivity, saves the time of your staff, offers fast connectivity to your customers and partners and enables you to deal with competitors and take your business to the next level.
For more information on managed IT services in Sydney please Call us at 1300 93 94 95 or email us at info@zen.net.au.