New Year, New Habits: 10 IT Tips to Boost Productivity & Security

Posted by: Aubrey Felix on January 1, 2025 at 8:22 am

As the calendar flips to a new year, I can’t help but think about all the ways we can make our workdays more efficient. If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for small changes that can make a big impact. What’s one place we can start? Our IT habits. Let’s dive into 10 practical IT Tips for Productivity and Security that can help you and your team streamline workflows, stay organized, and strengthen security as we kick a new year.

 

IT Tips for Productivity and Security:

1. Organize Files and Folders

Take some time to sort documents into well-organized folders. Use clear naming conventions so you can retrieve them easier. Things you can do:

• Archive old projects that aren’t in use but need to be kept for reference.
• Keep your desktop clean to avoid clutter and confusion.

2. Uninstall Unnecessary Software

It’s time to remove outdated or unused programs. These can slow down your computer or even pose a security risk. Things you can do:

• Check for software you no longer use and uninstall it.
• Ensure that your remaining software is updated to the latest versions.

3. Clear Temporary Files and Cache

You need to regularly delete temporary files and browser caches. This can to improve device performance and free up storage space. Things you can do:

• Use built-in tools like Disk Cleanup or third-party software to clear unnecessary files.
• Set a monthly reminder to perform this task.

4. Update Passwords

Start the year with strong, unique passwords for each account. Avoid using the same password across multiple platforms. Things you can do:

• Use a secure password manager to generate and store secure passwords. (Not all password managers are created equal)
• Create passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Use long passphrase that are harder to guess.

5. Adopt Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of protection, this ensures your accounts are secure even if a password is compromised. Things you can do:

• Enable MFA on all critical accounts and systems.
• Encourage your team to do the same for their personal accounts.

6. Organize Email Inboxes

Organize, delete or archive old emails that are no longer relevant. Things you can do:

• Unsubscribe from unnecessary mailing lists to reduce daily clutter.
• Use filters or labels to prioritize important emails.

7. Review and Clean Team Collaboration Tools

Platforms like Microsoft Teams or Slack are almost universally used. But they can quickly become cluttered with old chats and files. Try spending time clearing these spaces and organizing shared folders. Things you can do:

• Delete old messages and files that are no longer needed.
• Establish a shared folder structure for your team.

8. Revisit IT Policies

Can’t remember what your policies are? It might be time to review the company’s IT and cybersecurity policies. Things you can do:

• Schedule a brief team meeting to go over key policies.
• Ensure everyone knows where to find updated IT documentation.

9. Avoid Public Wi-Fi Without a VPN

It’s coffee shop season, which is a good to remind team members of the dangers of unsecured public Wi-Fi. Try to use VPNs for secure browsing, and encourage your team to do the same. Things you can do:

• Recommend a trusted VPN service to your team.
• Educate employees and workmates on identifying secure networks.

10. Watch Out for Phishing Emails

The new year often sees a spike in cybercriminal activity. It’s crucial that you stay vigilant against phishing attempts. Things you can do:

• Share examples of common phishing email tactics.
• Encourage reporting suspicious emails to your IT team.

 

Set Goals for IT Proficiency

The start of a new year is also a great time to think about how we can sharpen our skills and build better habits. Personally, I’ve found that setting small, achievable goals can make a huge difference over time. What you can do:

• Take advantage of company-provided IT training sessions to learn something new or deepen your expertise.
• Explore online learning tools to master advanced features in tools you already use, like Microsoft Outlook or Teams. You’d be surprised how much time you can save by learning a few shortcuts!

By setting and working toward IT-related goals, employees can feel more confident, productive, and prepared to tackle challenges throughout the year. Here are some tips from Microsoft on keeping your files organized. 

 

Start the Year Strong

Taking these small steps might seem straightforward, but trust me, these IT Tips for Productivity and Security can make a huge difference in how smoothly and securely your team operates. I’ve found that even minor changes in habits can ripple into big improvements—whether it’s feeling less stressed about organization or knowing your systems are safer. Start now, and you’ll set the tone for a productive and secure year ahead.

And hey, if you’re looking for extra support—whether it’s IT solutions, cybersecurity training, or help with planning your technology goals for the new year—reach out to us at TAZ Networks. We’re always here to help you succeed!