IT outages are common in the business world, but that doesn't mean they are a welcome occurrence. Systems going offline can result in significant costs for businesses. Downtime puts revenues at a standstill, and a computer virus can take down an entire network in the blink of an eye.

Although no company is entirely immune from IT problems, there are ways to avoid them. Luckily, having the right Enterprise IT Management systems in place prevents issues before they strike. Here are the most common IT disasters and what you can do to keep them from taking your network offline:

1. Hardware Malfunctions

In the IT world, the hardware consists of any tangible computer or technology components. These may include computer peripherals, circuit boards, CPUs, monitors, printers, and telecommunication devices. As with any piece of equipment, these parts do wear out. Even the sturdiest pieces reach their end of life and eventually fail.

Preventing hardware malfunctions boils down to maintaining and updating all equipment regularly. Make sure to replace parts as they wear out, and keep pieces running with the latest software. Regular dusting and cleaning can also help keep office hardware working more efficiently. Of course, upgrading is always a wise choice as old technology becomes outdated.

2. Software Issues

All software works great until it doesn't. Offices invest a lot of capital when buying the latest computer software. However, it doesn't matter how expensive a program initially costs. Even the best software is bound to fail without the proper precautions.

To get the most out of pricey software, make sure to check for updates on a regular schedule. Forgetting to do so puts the program in jeopardy of a cyberattack. Download any patches as they become available, and always look for newer versions.

3. Cyberattacks

An office may operate from 9:00 to 5:00, but hackers never sleep. Instead, they find ways to strike unsuspecting businesses when they least expect it. Viruses, ransomware, and other malicious software can bring down an entire network. Cyberattacks can also put a company's private data at risk, such as employee and customer information.

All companies, no matter their size, could become victims of hacking. Thankfully, it's possible to avoid a cyberattack by installing anti-malware software and utilizing spam filters. Training employees on how to recognize phishing schemes is also crucial.

4.  Human Error

Employees may not want to admit this, but user error can create a massive IT disaster. A worker might mistakenly download malware or make a small typo while entering new code. If not caught in time, human error can lead to lost revenues.

Regular training and re-training are the best ways to prevent user error. Instead of only training new hires, schedule time each month to get all employees on the same page. It's also wise to limit workloads to ensure no one takes on too many responsibilities at once.

5. Natural Disasters

Mother Nature always has something brewing up her sleeve. Unfortunately, natural disasters can wreak havoc on a company's IT infrastructure. Hurricanes, floods, and fires can damage systems and send an entire business offline.

While it's impossible to control the weather, companies can be proactive in preparing for natural disasters. For example, moving IT operations onto the cloud is one way to ensure information is always accessible no matter local conditions.

Reliable IT Systems Every Day

Managing IT is a non-stop job. Keeping all systems running around the clock is critical. Taking the necessary precautions today will ensure your company doesn't lose any revenue due to a preventable IT disaster.