These days, there is not a business around that does not use IT hardware in some capacity to facilitate their daily operations. Some companies use basic hardware such as computers and their related accessories, while other companies, particularly those who operate online or heavily utilize data or technology, use far more advanced types of IT hardware. Unfortunately, despite the fact that IT hardware is so prevalent with businesses today, many company owners don’t give much thought to the technology they use on a daily basis. They may not know much about IT hardware, including what it is, how it is used, the common types of IT hardware found in businesses, and how to know when it is time to upgrade or update the hardware that they use. 

Having a better understanding of IT hardware can help you to learn how vital it is to doing business and help to ensure you are maximizing your use of IT hardware and updating it as needed, to ensure it continues to meet the needs of your company. Read on to learn more about IT hardware. 

What Exactly is IT Hardware?

IT hardware, also known as computer hardware, is the physical and virtual components that make up a computer and your information technology infrastructure. Essentially, IT hardware involves any of the items that computers use to store, transmit, retrieve, or manipulate data and information. Some of the things that people use IT hardware for includes creating or editing spreadsheets; accessing, working with, and sharing electronic files or documents; communicating with co-workers, clients, and vendors; marketing their business through social media or search engine optimization (SEO), tracking and monitoring inventory, keeping track of finances for accounting purposes, completing payroll for your employees, and even building and overseeing your company’s website. IT hardware makes it possible for a business to increase employee efficiency, improve customer service, track employee productivity, and increase profits. This is why a modern company cannot function without some types of IT hardware at its disposal.

Common Types of IT Hardware Found in Businesses

Now that you know what IT hardware is, you may find yourself wondering what the common types of IT hardware are. The most common type of IT hardware used by businesses is computers and laptops. Your employees use these basic devices for many different aspects of their job, whether they are in or outside of the office. However, without this ubiquitous hardware, none of the other common types of IT hardware would exist. As such, this is the most common and most important type of IT hardware. 

Computers, whether they’re personal computers (PCs) or laptops, are composed of several other types of hardware. Input devices such as keyboards and mouses enable you to interact with the computer, while output devices such as monitors and printers make it possible for you to access the data that exists within it. Storage devices such as hard drives and flash drives house your electronic data. Finally, processing devices such as motherboards physically connect all of the different components of the computer.

Beyond your computer, there are many more sophisticated types of IT hardware that businesses rely on to operate that many people don’t have personal experience with. We’re talking about the types of equipment that make up your network, storage, and security infrastructure. This hardware includes modems, routers, network servers, firewalls, wireless infrastructure, and network switches.

When Is the Right Time to Update Our Company’s IT Hardware?

One of the biggest decisions you will face as a business when it comes to technology is determining when the right time is to replace or update your IT hardware. When it comes to computer hardware, including computers, laptops, and printers, it is generally recommended that you replace these items about once every five years. This helps to ensure you are utilizing the latest technology, while also having reliable equipment that will not suddenly stop working or fail on you. However, every business is slightly different, and your equipment may need to be replaced sooner depending on what kind of work you do and how important access is to the most modern technology. 

When it comes to updating more advanced IT Hardware such as your telecommunications and data storage equipment, there is no hard and fast timeline. Ultimately, these are items that should be routinely looked at and updated as needed. As a general rule of thumb, you should be looking at things such as your data storage and firewalls at least once every six months. If you are running into data storage limits or operating speed issues, you should look into updating these items immediately. This helps to ensure you have everything you need for your employees to operate as efficiently as possible. 

IT hardware plays a huge role in the day-to-day operations of your business, and without the right equipment, your business may get left behind the competition. Unfortunately, not every business, especially small businesses, have the time or expertise to look into every element of their IT hardware and decide when it is time to replace, repair, or change the hardware. This is where partnering with a technology expert can be beneficial. 

If you’re interested in upgrading your mid-Atlantic region company’s IT hardware, contact KDI today and speak with one of our solutions experts. KDI is the fastest-growing independent office technology provider in the area, partnering with the most respected manufacturers in the world to ensure optimal efficiency, security, and uptime. Since 1984 we’ve been providing businesses with the right technology solutions to meet their unique needs.