Why Every Local Business Must Treat Technology Like a Business Priority—Not Just an “IT” Issue
If you run a business in Farmingdale or anywhere across Long Island, odds are you rely on technology every single day—even if you don’t think of your company as “tech-based.” Maybe you’re an accountant using QuickBooks to manage sensitive client data. Maybe you own a retail store using smart cameras and security systems to protect against theft. Maybe your business involves 3D printing or manufacturing equipment controlled by network-connected software. Or maybe you’re simply using VoIP phones, cloud storage, and basic email every day to serve customers and vendors.
Here’s the truth:
No matter what your industry, technology is now the beating heart of your business. And protecting it isn’t just an IT concern—it’s a business continuity imperative.
Cyber Attacks Are Rising—And They’re Targeting You
You’ve probably heard about ransomware attacks on big companies or hospitals. But did you know that 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses? Local companies are increasingly vulnerable because hackers know these businesses are often underprepared—and the cost of downtime can be devastating.
A single day offline can mean:
• Lost revenue
• Damaged reputation
• Missed customer service opportunities
• Scrambling to recover critical files or rebook services
It’s not a matter of “if” a tech disruption will happen—it’s a matter of “when.” Whether it’s a cyberattack, power outage, hardware failure, or human error, every business needs a resilient plan in place to keep running.
Technology Budgets Must Evolve with the Threat Landscape
Years ago, antivirus software and a backup hard drive might have been enough. Today, it’s not. As threats become more sophisticated, your business’s approach to IT must grow just as smart.
That means:
• Reviewing how customer and employee data is stored and protected
• Securing network-connected devices, from desktop computers to smart door locks
• Implementing multi-factor authentication and firewalls
• Having cloud-based and offline backup systems
• Training employees on cyber hygiene and phishing awareness
In short, technology has become a business strategy, not just a support system.
What Every Local Business Should Do Right Now
If you’re not sure how secure your systems are—or how vulnerable your business might be—it’s time to take a few simple but powerful steps:
1. Conduct a Cybersecurity and Network Audit
Understand where your risks are today so you can act proactively—not reactively.
2. Create a Business Continuity Plan
Make sure you have:
o A list of must-contact vendors and tech providers
o A protocol for data recovery and downtime communication
o A secure way to continue operating offline, if needed
3. Shore Up the Basics
Even simple upgrades—like improved password policies, offsite backups, or updating old operating systems—can greatly reduce your risk.
Don’t Wait for a Crisis to Take Action
Getting ahead of IT challenges is easier—and more affordable—than recovering from a disaster. Not sure where to start? Tech 2020 Solutions, a local Long Island-based IT consulting firm, is offering a complimentary technology assessment to help Farmingdale Chamber members get a clear picture of their cybersecurity posture and infrastructure resilience. There’s no sales pitch—just expert insights and actionable recommendations tailored to small and midsize businesses like yours.
To learn more or schedule your free consult, contact our program manager, Jodi Jacobs at jodi@tech2020solutions.com, or leave a general inquiry in our team inbox at info@tech2020solutions.com or call us at 516.876.8761.
Stay smart. Stay secure. Keep your business running—no matter what.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the Tech 2020 Solutions team. It will be our pleasure to be of service to keep you cyber safe.