A new year’s the perfect time for businesses to take stock of their tech. Systems age, software drifts out of date and security risks grow quietly in the background. A fresh IT review helps you spot problems early, plan upgrades properly and make sure your tech’s ready to support your goals for the year ahead. At Edmondson's we help businesses get their systems in top shape, so here’s a practical checklist to guide your 2026 planning.

1. Review your hardware

Start by checking the age and performance of your devices. PCs and laptops generally last around three to five years before slowing down or becoming a security risk. If users are waiting for apps to load or struggling with freezing screens, it’s time to consider an upgrade. Look at your servers too, because older hardware can cause stability issues that lead to downtime. Modern devices, especially those running Windows 11, offer better speed, stronger security and improved reliability. Edmondson's can help assess your current estate and suggest the right replacements.

2. Update your software

Outdated software’s one of the easiest ways for cyber criminals to gain access to your network. Make sure all operating systems, applications and business tools are fully supported and still receiving security updates. If you’re running anything that’s approaching end of life, plan an upgrade before it becomes a risk. Check your anti virus as well, because real time protection’s essential in a landscape where phishing and malware attacks are rising. Keeping everything patched and current gives your business a much stronger defence.

3. Strengthen your backup strategy

A reliable backup’s one of the most important parts of your IT setup. Confirm that your data’s being backed up daily, stored securely off site and tested regularly to make sure it can be restored. Many businesses don’t realise their backup’s failing until they actually need it, which is why having a monitored solution’s vital. Edmondson's provides secure and fully managed backup systems that protect your files, databases and servers around the clock. Review how long you could afford to be without your data and check that your backup plan supports that.

4. Tighten your cyber security

Start the year by reviewing your cyber security measures. Multi factor authentication should be enabled on all accounts, especially email and cloud services. Make sure your firewall’s up to date, your WiFi’s secure and your devices are encrypted. Staff awareness training’s also key because phishing’s still the most common way attackers break in. Regular reminders about suspicious emails, fake links and safe browsing go a long way in keeping your team protected. If you’re unsure where your weak spots are, Edmondson's can run a full security review.

5. Check your software licensing

Licensing’s often overlooked, but keeping track of what you’re using helps you stay compliant and avoid paying for unnecessary tools. Make sure your Microsoft 365, server licences and business applications are all valid and aligned with your current staff numbers. If your team’s grown or reduced recently, adjust your licences so you’re not overspending. Edmondson's can help you streamline your licensing and move to more cost effective options where possible.

6. Assess your IT support

Good IT support’s essential for keeping your business running smoothly. Review how quickly issues were resolved last year, how often problems reoccurred and whether your provider’s giving you proactive guidance or just reacting when things go wrong. If you feel like your tech held you back in 2025, now’s the time to look for a more reliable partner. Edmondson's offers fast response times, expert engineers and proactive monitoring that stops issues before they affect your day.

7. Plan for growth

Finally, think about where your business’s heading in 2026. If you’re expanding your team, opening a new site or adopting new software, you’ll need an IT setup that supports it. Scalable broadband, VoIP phone systems, secure remote access and cloud solutions all help you grow without disruption. Planning early means your tech can evolve with you instead of holding you back.

Starting the year with a clear IT checklist helps you stay secure, productive and prepared for whatever 2026 brings. If you’d like support reviewing your systems or putting improvements in place, Edmondson's is here to help.