The Importance of Regular Device Upgrades for Enhanced Security and Productivity

Regularly upgrading IT devices to the latest model is far more crucial in a business setting than when it is your home laptop. While focus on repair and repurposing is important for the environment, business hardware must keep pace with the latest advancements in tech in order to stay relevant and deliver a competitive edge.

The rise of remote work has amplified the importance of robust device security programmes for organisations. Upgrading devices every handful of years can ensure that they are compatible with the latest business-grade cybersecurity technology.

Yet, regularly updating hardware and software is not just about enhancing security; it actually encompasses several other advantages as well, including optimising employee experience and staying competitive in the market.

How Often Should You Upgrade A Business Laptop?

The frequency of device upgrades depends on various factors, such as the type of equipment, whether it’s personal or business-related, and the specific model.

Business devices are built with robustness in mind, ensuring durability and fewer issues compared to personal devices. However, personal devices tend to be held onto for longer periods of time because it matters less if these devices are working at peak performance.

Ideally, business equipment should be refreshed every 3-5 years due to heavier use, the need to stay ahead in the competitive landscape, and security compatibility concerns.

On the other hand, desktops generally last longer than laptops, thanks to their larger size, accessible replaceable parts, and superior cooling systems.

It isn’t just whether the device is a laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone that affects how frequently you need to upgrade. It is also down to the make and model.

For instance, Apple devices tend to have longer lifespans, with software and operating system updates supported for several years, even for vintage machines.

It takes approximately 7 years for an Apple device to become obsolete.

PCs, on the other hand, offer greater repairability options.

Additionally, the longevity of a device is influenced by its initial specifications, including speed, power, and cost. Industries that require the latest technology advancements may necessitate more frequent upgrades to powerful models.

Why Regular Device Upgrades Matter

Staying Ahead in the Digital Era

The latest tech brings faster and more powerful laptops with new functionality and abilities. This can provide an advantage in the digital era of competition between businesses. Regular upgrades can actually result in keeping an edge over the competition and, therefore, drive superior profits.

Enhancing Security: A Paramount Concern

Outdated technology poses significant security risks in the business world. Companies must prioritise staying up to date to protect against cyber attacks.

Running old operating systems, that no longer receive patches, leaves systems vulnerable to exploitation.

In fact, more than four in 10 organisations in the US are using outdated technology and they experience nearly 50% more financial losses during data breaches compared to those with updated software and hardware, as revealed by a recent Kaspersky report.

Outdated equipment may lack access to the latest security features, such as advanced encryption standards and biometric authentication methods like fingerprint scans. Updating devices to the latest models with robust security features becomes imperative in minimising security risks.

Maximising Productivity: The Key to Success

Ensuring optimal productivity among employees is a shared goal for employers and staff alike.

Slow and outdated devices not only hinder productivity but also have a negative impact on employee morale.

According to an article by Work Place Insight.net citing research by Curry’s PC World, just booting up a computer wastes 8.8 days of work time per year for the average British worker, costing businesses approximately £1,009 per employee annually.

Waiting for outdated systems to start, coupled with unexpected crashes and data loss, results in significant time wastage.

The report also cited other worrying consequences of outdated tech in the business sphere, including:

• A third of UK workers lose motivation when they have to wait on slow technology.
• 28 % of Brits work extra hours to account for the time lost to tech delays throughout the day.
• 1 in 10 say tech hold-ups at work make them want to quit their job.

Providing employees with fast and responsive hardware and software fosters satisfaction, reduces frustration, and boosts overall productivity.

How Can You Regularly Upgrade Your Device Without Purchasing All New Equipment Every 3 Years?

When you lease your computer equipment in a DaaS (Device as a Service) style solution like Devices For Teams, your lease includes automatic upgrades to the latest technology. These upgrades are built into your lease, and you can be automatically swapped to the latest tech when it becomes available. Not only that, but Devices For Teams can advise your business and pair you with the most suitable devices for each department and staff member role. You don’t have to worry about a big expenditure every three years, since you pay in smaller, manageable amounts each month as part of your subscription.