Windows 10 end of life preparation: audit compatibility, plan Windows 11 upgrades, and partner with managed IT before support ends October 14, 2025.
As the end of support for Windows 10 approaches in about a year on October 14, 2025, it’s crucial for businesses to start preparing for the transition. This article will guide you through the essential steps to ensure a smooth and secure move to the next phase of your computing experience.
Understanding Windows 10 End of Life
Windows 10 End of Life (EOL) marks the point when Microsoft will cease providing updates, security patches, and technical support for the operating system. This event is significant because it leaves users vulnerable to security risks, compatibility issues with newer software and hardware, and non-compliant with standards like HIPAA, PCI, and CMMC.
Key Steps to Prepare
Assess Your Current Setup: Before making any changes, take stock of your current system:
Identify all devices running Windows 10
Check hardware specifications to make sure old computers are compatible
List essential software and applications
Evaluate Upgrade Options: Consider these alternatives:
Upgrading to Windows 11 for free (if your hardware supports it)
Purchasing new devices with the latest operating system to replace older ones
Plan for Software Compatibility: Ensure your critical applications will work post-transition:
Check compatibility with newer operating systems
Contact software vendors for upgrade options
Consider alternative software solutions if needed
Train Your Team: If you’re managing a business environment:
Educate employees about the upcoming changes
Provide training on new systems or procedures
Establish a support system for the transition period
Set a Timeline: Create a realistic schedule for your transition:
Set milestones for each phase of the preparation
Allow ample time for testing and troubleshooting
Plan for potential downtime during the switch
Financial Considerations: Budgeting for the transition is crucial:
Allocate funds for new hardware if needed
Account for potential software upgrade costs
Consider the long-term cost benefits of modernizing your IT infrastructure
Security Implications: Understand the risks of running an unsupported OS:
Increased vulnerability to malware and cyber attacks
Potential compliance issues for regulated industries
Lack of technical support for critical issues
Remember, a well-planned transition not only safeguards your system but also opens up opportunities for improved performance and productivity. Take the first step now: conduct an inventory of your Windows 10 devices and begin researching upgrade paths. Your future self will thank you for your foresight and preparation.
Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare for Windows 10 End of Life. Start your transition plan today to ensure a secure and efficient computing environment for the future. Let Farmhouse Networking do the heavy lifting by assessing your needs, exploring your options, and taking proactive steps to protect your digital assets.
CrowdStrike Falcon update triggers massive IT outage across cloud services
The recent CrowdStrike IT outage on July 19, 2024, caused by a defective update for Windows, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of managing IT infrastructure and proactive measures to prevent system downtime. While no system is entirely immune to outages, there are several strategies businesses can implement to minimize the risk and impact of such incidents.
Key Strategies to Prevent IT Outages
Improve Continuous Integration / Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) Practices: One of the most effective ways to prevent outages caused by software updates is to enhance CI/CD practices. This approach involves:
Automating the testing and deployment process
Implementing rigorous quality assurance checks
Using staging environments to test updates before full deployment
Gradually rolling out updates to detect issues early
By improving CI/CD practices, businesses can catch potential issues before they affect the entire network, reducing the likelihood of widespread outages.
Implement Comprehensive Load / Failure Testing: Regular load testing is crucial to ensure that systems can handle typical use cases and determine their potential in high use scenarios. A game plan should also be put in place for when systems fail to map out the road to recovery. This involves:
Simulating various levels of user activity
Identifying performance bottlenecks
Optimizing system architecture and configuration
Preparing for crisis scenarios, such as partial resource failures
Practice response to system failures before they become reality
Load / failure testing helps businesses understand their system’s limitations and address potential issues before they lead to outages.
Ensure Proper Scalability: As businesses grow, their IT infrastructure must be able to scale accordingly. This includes:
Designing systems with future growth in mind
Utilizing cloud technologies for flexible resource allocation
Regularly reviewing and updating system architecture
Implementing efficient systems that can handle increased business
Proper scalability ensures that systems can continue to function effectively as demand increases, reducing the risk of outages due to overload.
Enable Automatic Updates with Caution: While automatic updates can help keep systems secure and up-to-date, they should be implemented carefully. Best practices include:
Testing updates in a controlled environment before widespread deployment
Staggering updates across different system components
Having a rollback plan in case of issues
Monitoring systems closely after updates are applied
Automatic updates can help prevent security vulnerabilities, but they must be managed carefully to avoid introducing new issues.
Implement Comprehensive Monitoring: A robust monitoring system is essential for detecting and addressing potential issues before they escalate into outages. This includes:
Using a centralized monitoring platform for all IT infrastructure
Outsourcing it management is resources are not available
Setting up alerts for unusual system behavior or performance metrics
Implementing predictive analytics to identify potential issues early
Regularly reviewing and updating monitoring parameters
Comprehensive monitoring allows businesses to take a proactive approach to system management, reducing the risk of unexpected outages.
Conduct Regular Employee Training: Human error is a common cause of IT outages. Regular employee training can help mitigate this risk. Training should cover:
Best practices for system usage
Recognizing and reporting potential security threats
Proper procedures for applying updates and patches
Emergency response protocols in case of system issues
Well-trained employees are less likely to make mistakes that could lead to outages and are better equipped to respond effectively when issues do occur.
Don’t let IT outages disrupt your business. Take action now to protect your company’s technology infrastructure. Call Farmhouse Networking today at (541) 761-9549 to schedule a comprehensive IT assessment and learn how our expert team can implement strategies to prevent costly downtime. Secure your business’s future with proactive IT management.
Lenovo ThinkPad laptops and desktops are the best choice for business computers because of durability, security, performance, and easy integration into managed IT and TaaS.
Farmhouse Networking only recommends the best computers for your business and Lenovo stands head and shoulders above the rest. Here are several reasons why Lenovo is the best company for businesses to buy computers from:
Unmatched Reliability and Durability
Lenovo’s ThinkPad series is renowned for its durability and reliability. Originally developed by IBM, ThinkPads have been a staple in the business world for decades. These laptops undergo rigorous MIL-SPEC testing to ensure they can withstand extreme conditions, making them ideal for professionals who need a dependable device.
Superior Performance
Lenovo computers are designed with performance in mind. Whether you need a powerful desktop for complex data analysis or a lightweight laptop for on-the-go productivity, Lenovo offers a range of devices equipped with the latest processors, ample memory, and high-quality graphics. This ensures that your business operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Innovative Features
Lenovo consistently integrates innovative features into their products. For instance, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 offers a sleek design, fast processor options, and a long battery life, making it a versatile choice for any business. Additionally, Lenovo’s business laptops often come with advanced security features, such as biometric authentication and encryption, to protect sensitive business data.
Customizability and Upgradability
One of the standout features of Lenovo computers is their customizability. Businesses can choose from a variety of configurations to meet their specific needs. Moreover, many Lenovo laptops and desktops are designed to be easily upgradable, allowing businesses to extend the lifespan of their devices by upgrading components as needed.
Excellent Support and Warranty
Lenovo offers robust customer support and comprehensive warranty options. This ensures that businesses can get timely assistance and repairs, minimizing downtime and keeping operations running smoothly. Lenovo’s support services are highly rated, providing peace of mind for business owners. We always recommend that our clients sign up for the next business day warranties because they come onsite with parts the day after your first phone call.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Lenovo is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The company has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact through energy-efficient products and sustainable manufacturing processes. For businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint, Lenovo’s eco-friendly initiatives are a significant plus.
Spread the Costs with Tech-as-a-Service
Lenovo helps owners spread out the cost of new computers by allowing clients to finance their hardware or setup Tech-as-a-Service plan that turns hardware from a capital expense to an operating expense.
If your company is looking to update your fleet of laptops for remote workers, equip your engineers with the powerful workstations to create product models, or take advantage of the latest innovations to increase productivity – call Farmhouse Networking to let us do the shopping for you.
Co-managed IT delivers unlimited remote support to minimize downtime and enhance productivity
Some may wonder why we include unlimited remote support in our most popular monthly IT managed services contracts. The answer is simple. Our founder worked for other MSPs and has kept tabs on the industry standards and does not agree with how they bill their clients.
How the other guys do it
Block Hour Contracts: There are many managed IT service companies out there who use this model which is very similar to the way many attorneys use a retainer – except in this case it is usually a monthly re-occurring charge. You pay a flat fee for a specified number of hours. The draw back of this is there are some months where you are over paying for the amount of time used and other months where you are charged overage fees.
Per User Contracts: The latest trend is to count the number of employees and charge a per user fee. This may seem appealing to companies with small numbers of users and large numbers of devices. The price for this kind of service is usually very high and the services included in the contract are not always clear. There is just too much room for inflated margins here. There can also be caps on the number of remote hours included in the contract which could result in overages.
How Farmhouse Networking does it
Per Device Contract: We take the average cost of supporting a particular device across all our clients then add a small margin to keep the lights on and our employees fed. There are no hidden fees or hour caps to our most popular monthly IT managed service contracts. Call us during business hours, have the phone answered by our professional staff, get fast and effective support, and go on with your work day.
If you are tired of getting the run around from your current IT service provider, call Farmhouse Networking for simple unlimited remote support.
Streamline client maintenance via RMM automation and AI at Farmhouse Networking
Farmhouse Networking (FHN) is constantly looking for ways to enhance the services that we offer to our clients. Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are two technologies that have emerged to streamline this process.
FHN uses automation to manage tasks that are typically performed manually, such as system configuration, software installation, and server maintenance. By automating these tasks, FHN can prevent human error and ensure that their clients’ systems remain up to date and secure.
In addition, FHN uses AI to monitor clients’ systems for potential issues, such as hardware failure, security breaches, or performance issues. AI-powered systems can analyze data to detect patterns or anomalies that may indicate a problem, allowing FHN to act quickly based on this laser focused data to prevent downtime or data loss.
Contact us today to learn how Farmhouse Networking can future-proof your network with our innovative maintenance solutions.
We hold SABR meetings with clients to review IT performance, risks, and strategy, ensuring your business stays aligned, secure, and ahead of issues.
As a Managed Service Provider (MSP), one of our main objectives is to provide our clients with top-notch IT solutions. In order to achieve this, it is essential to have a clear understanding of your client’s needs, goals, and challenges. This is where Semi-Annual Business Review (SABR) meetings come in.
A SABR is a meeting between the Farmhouse Networking and the client, typically held in the Spring and Fall, to review the client’s IT infrastructure, identify areas of improvement, and develop a roadmap for the future. The SABR provides a structured framework for discussing IT needs and aligning them with business goals.
Why does Farmhouse Networking use SABR meetings with their clients?
Improve communication: SABR meetings are an opportunity for Farmhouse Networking to strengthen their relationships with clients. Through regular SABR meetings, Farmhouse Networking can improve communication with the clients, identify pain points, and develop a better understanding of the client’s business operations.
Identify areas for improvement: Regular network inventories and standards compliance reviews provide Farmhouse Networking with a comprehensive view of the client’s IT infrastructure, allowing us to identify areas for improvement, non-alignment with industry standards, and to develop a roadmap for addressing those areas.
Align IT with business goals: The SABR meeting helps align IT objectives with business goals by allowing the client to disclose their vision for the companies future. This ensures that the client’s IT infrastructure is working towards achieving those objectives that are important to the business.
Proactive approach: SABR meetings allow Farmhouse Networking to take a proactive approach to IT management. By identifying potential problems before they occur, Farmhouse Networking can prevent downtime, system crashes, and other issues that can negatively impact the client’s business operations.
By regularly conducting SABR meetings, Farmhouse Networking can ensure that their clients are receiving the best possible IT solutions, positioning them as trusted advisors in their field.
Enhance business cybersecurity defenses using advanced website filtering from Farmhouse Networking.
Businesses are faced with an ever-growing number of cybersecurity threats. One effective method to protect your organization’s sensitive data and network is implementing website filtering. Website filtering solutions offer businesses an essential tool to manage and safeguard their networks, ensuring employees are protected from accessing malicious or inappropriate websites. We will explore the importance of website filtering for business cybersecurity and provide practical insights for implementation.
Understanding Website Filtering:
Website filtering is an advanced security measure that enables organizations to control the websites that can be accessed by their employees. This essential cybersecurity practice helps mitigate risks associated with malware, phishing attacks, and overall data breaches. Through the implementation of website filtering, businesses can proactively manage internet usage, reduce network congestion, and improve productivity.
Benefits of Website Filtering:
Enhanced Network Security: By filtering out potentially harmful websites, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of malware infiltration, phishing attempts, and other cyber threats. Website filtering acts as a vital line of defense, preventing employees from inadvertently accessing websites hosting malicious content and safeguarding sensitive corporate data.
Regulatory Compliance: As the healthcare industry is subject to strict compliance regulations, implementing website filtering can help organizations maintain adherence to industry-specific regulations such as HIPAA. By blocking access to unauthorized websites or content, businesses ensure they are aligning with compliance requirements, reducing the potential for fines or legal repercussions.
Increased Employee Productivity: Unrestricted internet access often leads to time-wasting activities, reducing overall productivity within the organization. With website filtering, businesses can minimize distractions by blocking access to social media platforms, gaming websites, or other non-work-related sites, fostering a more focused work environment.
Bandwidth Optimization: Streaming services and large media files can significantly impact network bandwidth, leading to slower connections and decreased productivity. Website filtering helps alleviate this strain by allowing organizations to control access to bandwidth-intensive websites or file-sharing platforms, optimizing network performance.
Choosing the Right Website Filtering Solution:
When selecting a website filtering solution, organizations should consider the following:
Granular Control: Look for a solution that offers granular control, allowing you to tailor website filtering policies to specific departments or individual users. This flexibility ensures that employees only have access to relevant websites and content necessary for their job roles.
Real-Time Updates: The cybersecurity landscape evolves rapidly, with new threats emerging constantly. Ensure your chosen website filtering solution offers AI powered real-time updates and threat intelligence to protect against the latest risks effectively.
User-Friendly Interface: Implementing a user-friendly website filtering solution simplifies management. Look for a solution with an intuitive interface that enables easy configuration and monitoring of website filtering policies.
Potential Challenges and Mitigation Strategies:
While website filtering can provide numerous benefits, there are potential challenges to consider:
False Positives: Overzealous website filtering policies can sometimes lead to legitimate websites being inaccurately blocked, causing frustration for employees. Regularly review and fine-tune filtering policies to minimize the risk of false positives, striking a balance between security and productivity.
BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Environments: There is an increasing reliance on personal devices to access corporate networks. Ensure that your website filtering solution extends to cover such devices and effectively enforces security policies, mitigating the risk of potential threats from unsecured devices.
Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring: Website filtering requires ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure optimal performance and adaptability to emerging threats. Assign dedicated IT staff or consider a managed service provider (MSP) like Farmhouse Networking to oversee the implementation, management, and updates of your website filtering solution.
Website filtering is a critical component of any business’s cybersecurity strategy, providing robust protection against web-based threats and enhancing network security. Farmhouse Networking provides website filtering service to all our monthly managed clients at no additional cost. Sign-up today to become cyber secure.
Relying on one IT guy can expose your small business to downtime, data loss, and security vulnerabilities—managed IT services offer stronger protection.
The role of Information Technology (IT) in business success cannot be overstated. IT systems and infrastructure form the backbone of modern businesses, facilitating communication, data management, and efficient workflow. From managing customer databases to ensuring network security, IT plays a crucial role in driving productivity and competitiveness. However, many businesses make the mistake of relying on a single IT guy to handle all their technological needs. In this article, I will discuss the risks associated with this approach and the importance of adopting a team-based approach to IT support.
The risks of relying on a single IT guy
Lack of expertise and knowledge
When you rely on a single IT guy, you are limited to their individual skills and expertise. While they may be knowledgeable in certain areas, they may not possess the breadth of knowledge required to handle all aspects of your business’s IT infrastructure. IT is a vast field that encompasses various domains such as network administration, cybersecurity, software development, and hardware maintenance. By relying on a single guy, you risk missing out on specialized expertise that could greatly benefit your business.
Limited availability and support
Another significant risk of relying on a single IT guy is limited availability and support. IT issues can arise at any time, and if your IT guy is unavailable or overwhelmed with other responsibilities, it can lead to significant downtime and disruptions in your business operations. With a single point of contact, you may have to wait for extended periods before your IT issues are resolved, resulting in decreased productivity and potential financial losses.
Single point of failure
Relying on a single IT guy also means that your business is vulnerable to a single point of failure. If your IT guy falls ill, takes a vacation, or leaves the company, you may be left without any IT support. Singular IT techs often don’t have the time or resources to properly document procedures and critical passwords, so when they go this information is lost. This can be particularly problematic during critical times when you need immediate assistance. Having a backup plan or a team of IT professionals ensures that your business operations can continue uninterrupted, even if one person is unavailable.
The impact of downtime on business operations
Downtime can have severe consequences on your business operations. Every minute your systems are down translates to lost revenue, missed opportunities, and frustrated customers. According to a study conducted by Gartner, the average cost of IT downtime is $5,600 per minute. Imagine the financial implications if your IT guy is unavailable for an extended period. With a team-based approach to IT support, you can minimize downtime and ensure swift resolution of any issues, thereby safeguarding your business’s success.
The importance of a team approach to IT support
Adopting a team approach to IT support offers numerous benefits for your business. Firstly, it provides a diverse set of skills and expertise that can be leveraged to address various IT challenges effectively. Each team member brings their unique knowledge and experience, allowing for comprehensive and well-rounded support. Additionally, with a team, you have the advantage of increased availability and faster response times. By distributing responsibilities among team members, you can ensure that someone is always available to address your IT needs promptly.
The benefits of outsourcing IT support
Outsourcing IT support is a viable solution for businesses looking to avoid the risks associated with relying on a single IT guy. Outsourcing allows you to tap into a pool of talented professionals with specialized expertise in different IT domains. Moreover, outsourcing IT support can often be more cost-effective than hiring a full-time IT staff, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. By partnering with an external IT support provider, like Farmhouse Networking, you can access a wide range of services, including network monitoring, cybersecurity, data backup, and software maintenance, all while enjoying the benefits of a dedicated team.
Finding the right IT support provider
Finding the right IT support provider is crucial to ensuring a successful and secure IT infrastructure. When evaluating potential providers, consider their experience, track record, and the range of services they offer. Look for certifications and qualifications that demonstrate their expertise and commitment to quality. It is also essential to assess their responsiveness and availability to ensure that they can meet your business’s IT needs promptly. Ask them about their record keeping habits, make sure they document everything and keep your information secure with industry standard protocols. By conducting thorough research and seeking recommendations, you can find an IT support provider that aligns with your business goals and requirements.
By adopting a team-based approach to IT support or outsourcing your IT needs, you can mitigate these risks and ensure a successful and secure IT infrastructure. Don’t get stuck when your IT guy no longer responds; contact us to experience the comfort of having a team look after your business IT. With the right IT support provider, you can focus on growing your business while leaving your technological needs in capable hands.
IT experts configure network, internet, and workstations to minimize downtime during a business office move to a new location.
Relocating your business to a new office can be an exciting and challenging endeavor. It offers an opportunity for growth, expansion, and a fresh start. However, it also involves careful planning and consideration of various factors to ensure a smooth transition. In this article, we will explore ten essential factors that you should consider when relocating your business to a new office.
Importance of planning a business relocation
Planning is crucial when it comes to relocating your business to a new office. It helps you organize the entire process and ensures that everything is done efficiently and effectively. Without proper planning, you may encounter delays, unexpected expenses, and other complications. Start by creating a detailed timeline that includes tasks such as finding a new office space, notifying employees and clients, packing and moving equipment, and setting up the new office. This will help you stay on track and minimize disruptions to your business operations.
Assessing your business needs and requirements
Before you start searching for a new office space, it’s important to assess your business needs and requirements. Consider factors such as the size of your team, the nature of your business, and the amenities you need. Determine if you need a larger space to accommodate future growth or if you can downsize to reduce costs. Also, think about the layout and design of the office. Will it support collaboration among your team members? Will it provide a comfortable and productive work environment? Assessing your needs and requirements will help you find a new office that aligns with your business goals.
Budgeting for the relocation process
Relocating your business to a new office involves various expenses, including moving costs, lease deposits, renovation expenses, and new furniture and equipment. It’s important to create a budget and allocate funds accordingly. Research the costs associated with each aspect of the relocation process to ensure that you have enough funds to cover everything. Consider obtaining quotes from moving companies, contractors, and furniture suppliers to get a better idea of the expenses involved. By budgeting properly, you can avoid financial strain and ensure a smooth transition to your new office.
Legal and regulatory factors to consider
When relocating your business to a new office, it’s crucial to consider the legal and regulatory factors that may come into play. Research zoning laws, building codes, and permits required for your new location. Ensure that your business is compliant with local regulations and obtain any necessary licenses or permits before you move. Additionally, review your lease agreement for the current office space and understand the terms and conditions regarding termination. By addressing these legal and regulatory factors in advance, you can avoid potential legal issues and ensure a seamless relocation process.
Employee considerations during the relocation process
Your employees are an essential part of your business, and their well-being and satisfaction should be a priority during the relocation process. Keep your employees informed and involved throughout the process. Communicate the reasons for the move, the timeline, and any changes that may affect them. Consider their commuting distance and accessibility to public transportation when selecting a new office location. Provide support and resources to help them adjust to the new office environment. By considering your employees’ needs and concerns, you can maintain morale and productivity during the relocation process.
Location considerations for a new office
The location of your new office plays a significant role in the success of your business. Consider factors such as proximity to clients, suppliers, and partners. Evaluate the accessibility of the location in terms of transportation and parking facilities. Research the neighborhood to ensure that it aligns with your brand image and values. Also, consider the availability of amenities such as restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby. Choosing the right location for your new office can enhance your business reputation and attract both clients and talented employees.
Space and layout requirements for the new office
The space and layout of your new office are crucial for creating a productive and efficient work environment. Consider the number of employees you have and the type of work they do. Evaluate if the new office space can accommodate your current team and future growth. Think about the layout and configuration of the space. Will it allow for collaboration and communication among team members? Will it provide privacy when needed? Pay attention to factors such as natural light, ventilation, and acoustics to ensure a comfortable and conducive work environment.
Furniture and equipment considerations
When relocating to a new office, it’s important to consider your furniture and equipment needs. Assess what furniture and equipment can be moved from your current office and what needs to be replaced or upgraded. Consider the functionality, durability, and aesthetics of the furniture and equipment you choose. Invest in ergonomic furniture that promotes employee health and productivity. Research suppliers and obtain quotes to ensure that you get the best value for your money. By carefully considering your furniture and equipment needs, you can create a functional and visually appealing office space.
IT infrastructure and technology needs
IT infrastructure and technology are essential for the smooth operation of any business. When relocating to a new office, consider your IT infrastructure and technology needs. Assess your internet requirements, network infrastructure, and telecommunication systems. Determine if you need to upgrade your hardware or software. Plan for the installation and configuration of IT systems in the new office. Consider working with IT professionals, like Farmhouse Networking, who can ensure a seamless transition and provide ongoing support. By addressing your IT infrastructure and technology needs, you can minimize downtime and ensure that your business operations are not disrupted.
Relocating your business to a new office is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. Before you choose a new office, call Farmhouse Networking to discuss the details.
Modern accounting firm using managed IT services to keep tax software and client data online during busy season
Tax season is when every minute of billable time matters, and even a one-hour outage can cost thousands in lost work, delayed returns, and stressed staff. As a firm owner, the right IT strategy is the difference between a smooth March and a “fire drill” every week.
Why Downtime Is So Costly During Tax Season
Accounting teams regularly work 60+ hour weeks during peak busy season, so any outage hits during extended hours, not just 9–5.
Firms that move from reactive to proactive IT strategies have been able to cut downtime by 60–80%, protecting both billable hours and client trust.
Technology advances have already helped 69% of firms reduce time spent on admin tasks, which means you’re increasingly dependent on always-available systems.
In practice, that means tax software, QuickBooks, email, client portals, and e-file systems must stay fast and available—even at 9 PM on a Saturday in March.
Practical Actions You and Your IT Team Should Take
As the owner, your job is to set expectations, fund the right solutions, and make sure your IT partner or internal team executes before tax season hits.
1. Define Acceptable Downtime and Recovery Targets
Set Recovery Time Objective (RTO) for critical apps (e.g., “tax software back online within 30 minutes”).
Set Recovery Point Objective (RPO) for data (e.g., “no more than 15 minutes of work lost if something fails”).
Require your IT provider to document how their backup and disaster recovery design actually meets those targets.
2. Harden and Modernize Your Infrastructure
Move key workloads (tax apps, file shares, QuickBooks, portals) to scalable cloud or private hosting so performance doesn’t collapse under peak load.
Decommission old servers and unused software that increase failure risk and maintenance overhead.
Implement redundant systems for critical functions—at minimum, dual internet connections from different providers.
3. Automate the “Failure-Prone” Tasks
Enable automated patch management so security and stability updates happen after hours, not manually in the middle of busy season.
Automate data backup verification so someone doesn’t have to remember to check if last night’s backups actually completed.
Use automation for repetitive workflows like recurring invoice generation and batch processing of returns during off-hours.
4. Lock Down Cybersecurity Without Slowing Staff
Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all remote access, portals, and email accounts that touch client financial data.
Standardize access control (no shared logins, immediate offboarding for departed staff, clear least-privilege rules).
Maintain a written information security plan aligned with IRS Publication 4557 and FTC Safeguards expectations.
5. Demand 24/7 Support and Clear Escalation
Make 24/7 support a non-negotiable during tax season so issues at night or weekends are addressed immediately.
Require defined SLAs (response and resolution times) for any outage that touches tax apps, QuickBooks, or client-facing portals.
Ask your IT provider to test an incident response plan at least annually, including simulated ransomware or major vendor outages (like the July 2024 CrowdStrike event that disrupted 8.5 million devices).
6. Train Your Team to Avoid Preventable Incidents
Run short, focused phishing and security awareness training for staff before busy season.
Provide simple playbooks for “what to do if X happens” (ransomware popup, strange login alert, application freeze).
Make it clear that reporting a problem early is rewarded, not punished—this reduces hidden incidents that later explode into full outages.
Common Client Questions (and Strong Answers You Can Give)
You can turn solid IT preparation into a client trust advantage by proactively answering these questions.
Q1: “What happens to my data if your system goes down during tax season?” A: Our systems are backed up frequently with both onsite and cloud-based, immutable backups, and we have defined recovery objectives so we can restore access quickly even in a worst-case scenario.
Q2: “How do you protect my financial data from hackers?” A: We use multi-factor authentication, strict access controls, encryption, and continuously updated security tools aligned with IRS and FTC guidelines to safeguard your information.
Q3: “Will a cyberattack or outage delay my return filing?” A: We’ve engineered redundancy and disaster recovery around our tax applications, with clear recovery time targets and 24/7 IT monitoring, so even if something happens, we can recover quickly without missing filing deadlines.
Q4: “Can I still access my documents if your office is closed?” A: Yes, our cloud-based portals and systems are designed for secure remote access, allowing us and you to access documents from anywhere as long as there is internet connectivity.
How Farmhouse Networking Helps Accountants Minimize Downtime
Farmhouse Networking specializes in managed IT services for fast-growing accounting and finance firms, with a focus on performance, uptime, and client experience. As a business owner, you get a partner that understands both the technical and regulatory pressures of tax season.
Here’s how Farmhouse Networking can support the action steps above:
Proactive managed IT and cloud services: We design and manage scalable infrastructure and cloud solutions built specifically to handle tax-season peak loads for accounting firms.
Business continuity and disaster recovery: We implement and test backup strategies (including immutable and cloud backups), document RTO/RPO, and prepare runbooks so your team knows exactly what happens when something fails.
Security and compliance alignment: We deploy MFA, patch management, endpoint protection, and network hardening that align with IRS and FTC expectations, helping you protect client data and avoid regulatory headaches.
24/7 monitoring and support: We provide round-the-clock monitoring and responsive support, so your late-night tax work is covered and small issues don’t become revenue-killing outages.
Strategic technology roadmap: We help you decommission legacy systems, plan upgrades, and “future-proof” your practice so each year’s tax season gets easier, not harder.
Take the Next Step Before the Next Busy Season
If you wait until March to “fix IT,” you’re already too late. The easiest way to protect your firm’s revenue, reputation, and sanity is to partner with an IT team that lives and breathes accounting workflows and tax-season realities.
Email support@farmhousenetworking.com for more information about how Farmhouse Networking can help improve your business, minimize downtime next tax season, and give you and your team the confidence to focus on client work instead of fighting technology.
And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say,
“They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.”
For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. - 2 Corinthians 9:8-10
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