The technology that supports your business is vital to your success. With new ways of working becoming the norm, it has never been more important to consider smarter, faster and more convenient ways of getting the job done. And that means SMEs should embrace new tech for themselves and their employees, especially given that this has been shown to improve staff productivity and reduce business costs. 

Here’s our guide to what tool upgrades you should be considering to refresh your office tech. 

1. Look for Computer Hardware That Does Double Duty 

If you like the ease and portability of a tablet but still need a desktop computer for longer work sessions, consider a tablet that can be linked to external devices, such as a keyboard and a larger screen. A range of tablets can have keyboards and/or mice attached to them to create a more substantial, ergonomic setup for extended use, but that can also be easily disconnected for working from anywhere.

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2. Protect Your Work With an External Hard Drive 

Close-up of a person using an external hard drive with a laptop displaying colourful data charts on a wooden desk.

It’s impossible to overestimate the importance of backing up your work. Hard drives are also an efficient way of expanding a computer’s memory capacity and giving staff access to files without the hassle of wires. Hard drives come in all shapes and sizes these days: there are portable options, wireless ones, desktop hard drives and those that are network attached. The choice will come down to how often you back up, how fast you need that data, how much storage you require and how portable you would like your device.

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SEE ALSO: Data Storage Devices: Everything You Need to Know

3. Update Your Software for Maximum Security and Productivity

Keeping your software up to date isn't just a recommendation – it's a must. Regular updates give you essential security patches to guard against online risks and often come with handy productivity features to make your work life easier. Take Windows 11, for example. Upgrading boosts your security, especially since Windows 10 support ends in October 2025, and offers a fresh look with features to enhance multitasking and collaboration. Some older devices might not support the latest updates. If that’s the case, it’s essential to upgrade your devices, too.

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4. Make Printing and Copying Faster – and Easier

We may live in a digital world, but don’t underestimate the benefits of owning a printer. For a small office, consider getting a multifunction printer that will handle all your printing, copying, scanning and faxing with ease.

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5. Upgrade to a Sharper Computer Monitor

An assortment of computer monitors, shown on various brightly coloured backgrounds.

Feel like it’s time to upgrade your computer monitor? For jobs that involve spending a lot of time looking at a computer screen, it’s worth doing your homework. There’s a huge range available, from simple low-cost models that will suit the average user, up to high-end computer monitors aimed at designers and creatives. 

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SEE ALSO: Geeks2U Small Business Tech Support Tips

6. Block out Distractions With Wireless Headphones 

Noise levels in a busy open-plan office can be intense and, for some tasks, staff need to be able to block out distractions. A simple solution is to provide headphones for employees who need to make calls on the go, listen in on conference calls, transcribe voice recordings, or simply find they concentrate better when listening to music. 

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7. Tighten Your Office Security 

A security camera mounted on a wall, emitting a bright spotlight in a dimly lit environment.

Has upgrading your small business’ security been a long time coming? While digital security is vital, don’t forget about your physical assets. Installing a camera system to monitor your office out of hours is a fairly simple way to add an extra layer of security. For easier installation, choose a wire-free option.

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SEE ALSO: Geeks2U: Expert Advice on Staying Organised With Tech

8. Protect Technology From Power Outages

An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) will keep important electronics running when a power outage occurs, allowing you time to save and “gracefully” shut down. It’s a sensible investment for shops and offices where losing the day’s data is highly inconvenient, and may come in particularly useful for those who work in remote areas or where power supply can be irregular. Look out for models that also protect you against power surges and that can regulate voltage to stabilise the AC signal.

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9. Boost Your Work Station’s Utility With a USB-C Combo Hub

A USB-C hub is a nifty little device that instantly transforms any work station into a highly efficient hub by allowing multiple connections on a single-port USB-C (or USB Type-C) laptop or tablet. It means you can add things like a hard drive, mouse and keyboard. Choose a model with plenty of ports, and, if possible, a power pass-through USB-C port so you can charge your laptop as well as connect peripherals.

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10. Wirelessly Charge Your Smart Devices

Sick of searching for a cable every time your smartphone needs recharging? Wireless charging allows devices to be charged (over very short distances) without cables; it’s quick, easy and tidy. Qi (pronounced ‘chee’) wireless charging is being built into an ever-growing list of smart devices. 

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This article was originally published in April 2020 and has been updated.‍