Small Business Computer Network

The small business computer network can run much simpler than the networks of bigger businesses, with lower costs and even better reliability for the things that matter to such a business: email, Internet, easy access to and protection of files, and computer functioning that is as good or better than others. 

Such a business is simpler, so its IT i simpler. 

I.T. professionals who were trained in the bigger company may not approach things in this small business way.

Here are eight core pieces to Basic IT for the small business. (Each business is unique and may require some adjustment,)

Servers - Go Simple!
You probably don't need a server if you are this size.  
If you don't need it, a server is just extra bother and expense.

Email -
Use something ultra reliable, always backed up, easy and free.
Google mail for businesses and domains, for example. 
We have other ideas, too.

Data storage
How do you store your data so that it is safe and available to everyone who should see it.

Data Backup
Set it up to be simple, inexpensive, and automatic.
Online backup is often just part of the answer, but not just any online backup. 

Security
An ounce of protection can be worth thousands of dollars of delays in doing business and tech services for repair. The prevention is not so hard or expensive for a business this size.  

Virus protection
This falls under security, but there are good solutions out there that are very affordable and will not slow down your computer.  We are not talking about Norton/Symantec or MacAfee here.

Your web site
You, not your IT tech, must own your own domain name. Otherwise you can be held hostage. That is Rule One for web sites.

Prompt help 
Live computer tech support
Get it when you need it, from people that speak English and have the right skills.