Launching a new business means juggling countless tasks, but setting up your IT shouldn’t add to the stress. This straightforward checklist will guide you through each step of setting up your business technology with confidence. Whether you’re managing the setup yourself, delegating it to a team member, or working with a managed service provider like Concord IT, you’ll have the foundation to build secure, scalable IT systems that support your growth.
1. Define your Business Requirements
Before diving into hardware or software, take time to outline your business needs from its IT systems.
Understanding your operational goals will help you avoid unnecessary purchases and ensure your setup is tailored to your business. Consider the number of employees you’ll have, their roles, and the specific needs or requirements each role might entail.
Creating a floor plan of your workspace (including desk locations, printers, and network equipment) can help you visualise how technology will integrate into your day-to-day operations and guide decisions around power points and network layout.
2. Select the Right Hardware
Choosing the right hardware is essential for productivity and flexibility. Today’s businesses often need hybrid setups that support working from the office, home, or on the go. Equip your team with reliable laptops or desktop, phones, headsets, and printers that suit their roles and daily responsivities.
We recommend HP Business PCs for their excellent quality and prompt onsite support. Apple Mac PCs should only be chosen if there is a specific software or workflow requirement that cannot be met by Windows.
Don’t forget about the backbone of your network: Routers, switches, and access points. A stable internet connection is critical, so choose a dependable provider and consider backup options if uptime is vital for your operations.
3. Install Your IT Infrastructure
Once you’ve selected your hardware, the next step is installation. This includes setting up workstations, configuring network access points, and ensuring everything is connected and functioning properly.
For many business owners, this can be a complex and time-consuming process. If you’re unsure about the details, partnering with a managed service provider like Concord IT can make all the difference. Our team can prepare, install, and test your infrastructure to ensure it performs reliably from day one.
4. Choose and configure Software
When selecting software for your business, it’s essential to tailor your choices to the unique requirements of your operations. Begin by identifying the business applications and tools that will support your day-to-day activities. Take a thoughtful approach, considering not just current needs but also future scalability as your company grows.
Setting up email accounts is another foundational step. Each team member should have a secure, professional email address – ideally within your company’s domain – to foster clear communication and enhance your brand’s credibility.
We recommend Microsoft 365 for email and office applications. It’s secure, scalable, and integrates seamlessly across devices. Be sure to configure appropriate access levels for each application, so team members have the right permissions for their roles. This enhances both productivity and security.
5. Secure Your Systems and Backup Your Data
Cybersecurity is not optional, especially for small businesses, which are often more vulnerable to attacks. Align your practices with recognised cybersecurity frameworks such as ISO 27001 or SMB1001. Implement firewalls, antivirus software, and endpoint protection to safeguard your systems.
Password management is also critical. Weak or reused passwords are one of the most common entry points for cyber threats. We recommend and use BitWarden, a secure password manager that helps your team store credentials safely. It simplifies password hygiene across your organisation, reduces the risk of breaches, and supports multi-factor authentication for added protection.
Equally important is data backup. Cloud-based storage solutions allow remote access to files and protect against hardware failures or accidental deletions. A solid backup strategy ensures your business can recover quickly from any disruptions.
6. Train Your Team and Promote Best Practices
Training your team is one of the most effective ways to strengthen your business’s cybersecurity position. At Concord IT, we believe that awareness is your first line of defence. We use and recommend Breach Secure Now, a training platform that delivers weekly, bite-sized lessons to help staff recognise and respond to threats like phishing, ransomware, and social engineering.
Whether your team is working in the office or remotely, this training ensures that everyone is equipped to protect your business. If you’d like to learn more about how Breach Secure Now can support your business, email hello@concordit.com.au. We are here to help you build a resilient, security-conscious workplace.
Working through this checklist will help you build a strong IT foundation that supports your business goals, protects your data, and empowers your team. Whether you feel confident handling setup yourself or prefer expert guidance, Concord IT is here to help. Our mission is to help businesses gain productivity and efficiency through integrated, harmonised IT systems. If you’re ready to build an IT setup for your business, contact our team today for a free consultation.
