Hardware - Software -Taking Care of Your Business Assets

If you run an online business -you know your computer-it's software and hardware are extremely important to you. Even though you may plan for obsolescence in your hardware and software, sometimes things do happen. Hardware can die on you and software can be corrupted, but also become obsolete (which translates into, not supported by the company). Whatever the case may be, it can leave you in a frustrating position. How well do I know! Thus, here is an article that highlights the average lifespan of some of your hardware and things to consider when buying new software and hardware.

Software and Hardware Obsolescence -Know the Facts
By Vickie J. Scanlon

When you start an online business everyone knows they should have some kind of business plan -be it an explicit, detailed account of what your online business is going to be or a general outline. But you should not forget about your hardware and software-they are the lifeblood of your business. This article will detail some of the things to keep in mind.


Security Software

Security Software- as you know software changes should occur automatically throughout the year-as long as your subscription is active. With that being said, make sure you use software that is continually updated throughout the year, such as Norton or Computer Associates.

In most cases, there are yearly reminders to keep you current. What is important is a service that adequately supports the blocking of online identity theft, virus and worm protection, hacker protection, spyware protection and phishing protection. All are needed. Several lines of defense are important, for what one does not catch the other will.

In addition to your security software, at this free service-Netcraft. Netcraft is a great service, identifying phishing sites - you can find a link to Netcraft on my site under the tools section or you can do a quick search in Google.


Other Software

Software in most cases are updated on a yearly basis, either to improve or enhance the product. How do you determine if you need the new software? You need to ask yourself if the upgrade software will keep you current with your customers or enhance your capabilities.

I'm afraid to say you should be aware of the operating system you are using. If the operating system is obsolete, sometimes the new hardware and the software may not be compatible.

Sometimes you can have the new operating system accept your old software- by using the Windows compatibility tab under properties (This is if you are using Windows). However, it is all dependant upon one big question- will the new operating system allow you to put the old hardware into play on the system.


Hardware and obsolescence

Nothing last forever, so be sure to keep a list of the hardware and when you purchased them.

Average Lifespan of Hardware:

1. modem - 5 years (if you need a external modem-with satellite connection you need to make sure the modem is well ventilated to extend the life of the modem.)
2. computer - 2 to 5 years (You're probably been left behind and will find that you need to upgrade just to run the new programs)
3. monitor - In most cases your monitor will last for a long time and will not become obsolete until the operating systems no longer support the monitor. But when you have the opportunity, and the money to upgrade you should upgrade, because the newer monitors can offer better protection for your eyes and health.
4. Hard Drives - 5 years at most - This is an easy upgrade, the main thing to remember is to check your system to he main thing to be aware of with your PC is whether it uses the older ATA interface or the new SATA. Always check your computer specifications. It can save you a lot of headaches.
5. CD/DVD- 3 to 5 years. Upgrades should come when you need more speed and functionality.
6. Video cards - 3 to 5 years. Don't need to upgrade the video card, unless you need more functionality. Again check your stats for specifications.
5. Flash Drives - 10 years
6. Printers -- 4 years
7. Scanners -- 3 years


Upgrades

1. Memory upgrades- memory upgrades is always a good investment. Why? The more memory you have, the less your PC will have to use virtual memory (virtual Memory is memory that exceeds your RAM. This memory is swapped between back and forth between your hard drive to keep your system running.)

Note: For those who have Vista, you can get an additional boost with an option called ReadyBoost. This is inexpensive flash memory and will help your system run a little faster, especially if you're under 2 gig.


Care of hardware

Your hardware can last for the life of your computer if you keep your computer ventilated (by having a sufficient amount of fans) and by cleaning your system every 4 or 5 weeks. Cleaning the dust out of your computer is pretty easy. Just get a can of pressurized gas to clean the dust off your internal hardware.

This quick overview should help you plan for hardware and software obsolescence. Being proactive, can help you avoid 75% of the hardware failures before they occur. As to your software, you will need to be the judge of what you need and want. But as to security software - that is needed whether you are a consumer or an online marketer. Protection online is always a top priority in my books.

About Author:

Vickie J Scanlon -- Visit her site at: http://www.myaffiliateplace.biz for free tools, articles, ebooks, how to info, affiliate opportunities, travel and tech accessories, software and computers for the online business.