top of page
Cyber-attack is widely consider the #1 business threat in the country. Learn more
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing Southern Tech means opting for rapid response times, personalized service plans, expert advice on hardware and software purchases, and comprehensive support that includes developing IT security policies. Our accountability and customer satisfaction measures ensure that your IT needs are met with precision and professionalism.
PCI compliance refers to the following of specific standards and practices designed to secure transactions made using credit, debit, and cash cards, ensuring that cardholder information is protected against unauthorized use. All major card issuers mandate adherence to the "Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard" (PCI DSS) to safeguard sensitive cardholder data.
The cost of managed IT services depends on several factors, including the size of your business, the number of users and devices, your cybersecurity requirements, and the level of support you need. Some businesses only require basic monitoring and maintenance, while others need fully managed IT services that include help desk support, network management, cybersecurity, cloud services, backups, and strategic IT planning. We work with each client to develop a solution that fits their technology needs and budget.
Most business computers should be evaluated for replacement every three to five years, depending on their performance, hardware requirements, and the software your business relies on. Slow computers can reduce employee productivity, increase support costs, and create security risks if they can no longer receive software or operating system updates. We can help assess your current equipment and recommend a replacement schedule that minimizes downtime and spreads costs over time.
Common signs include slow performance, frequent downtime, limited storage capacity, aging hardware, increasing maintenance costs, difficulty supporting newer software, or security concerns due to outdated operating systems. If your server is affecting employee productivity or can no longer meet your business needs, it may be time to upgrade or consider cloud-based alternatives.
Cloud solutions can offer greater flexibility, improved collaboration, enhanced disaster recovery, and secure access to your files and applications from almost anywhere. However, every business has different technology requirements. Some organizations benefit from a fully cloud-based environment, while others are better served by a hybrid approach that combines local infrastructure with cloud services. We can evaluate your current environment and recommend the solution that best fits your operations, security requirements, and long-term goa
Critical business data should be backed up daily, and in many cases, continuously throughout the day. The appropriate backup schedule depends on how often your data changes and how much information your business can afford to lose in the event of hardware failure, ransomware, or accidental deletion. Regular testing is also important to ensure backups can be restored successfully when needed.
If you suspect your business has experienced a cybersecurity incident, disconnect affected devices from the network if it is safe to do so, avoid deleting files or attempting repairs on your own, and contact your IT provider immediately. Quick action can help limit the spread of malware, preserve evidence, and reduce downtime. After the immediate threat has been addressed, your systems should be evaluated to identify the cause of the incident, strengthen security measures, and reduce the likelihood of future attacks.
Project timelines vary depending on the scope and complexity of the work. Small projects, such as workstation installations or network upgrades, may be completed within a day or two, while larger projects involving server replacements, office relocations, cloud migrations, or complete network deployments may take several weeks. Before work begins, we provide a project plan, estimated timeline, and regular communication to help ensure a smooth implementation with minimal disruption to your business.
bottom of page
