Top 20 IT Issues & Their Common Resolutions

The Essential 20: Quick Solutions for Common Business IT Problems

For Small-to-Medium Businesses (SMBs), technical issues directly translate into operational friction and financial risk. This resource is designed to provide quick, actionable solutions to the most frequent IT problems reported by leaders in Financial Services, Manufacturing, and Healthcare.

When seeking professional support, remember that a trustworthy Managed Service Provider (MSP) offers not just quick fixes, but a strategic plan for long-term stability and cost predictability.

1. Forgotten/Locked Account

• Business Impact & Relevance (Financial Services) Immediate inability to access client data or platforms like Orion, hindering daily strategy and client service.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Initiate the self-service password reset (via email/security Qs). If locked, have IT verify identity and enforce a strong, unique password.

2. Slow Computer Performance

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Reduced staff productivity; adds minutes to every critical transaction (e.g., job quoting, patient intake).

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Free up disk space, close unnecessary background applications. Run a malware scan.

3. Software Won't Run/Crashes

• Business Impact & Relevance (Manufacturing) Halts production flow or prevents updates to critical ERP/shop floor systems, leading to lost production.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Restart the application/computer first. Check software compatibility. Reinstall the program or check for conflicting applications.

4. Slow Internet/Wi-Fi

• Business Impact & Relevance (Healthcare) Causes network issues that prevent staff from accessing patient records across multi-location practices.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Restart the PC, then the router/modem. Run a speed test. For Wi-Fi, verify signal strength or move to a wired connection.

5. Printer Not Working

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Prevents immediate documentation or billing, creating administrative friction.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Verify the power and data cable connections. Check for paper jams. Reinstall the printer driver specific to the model.

6. Lost Network Access

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Inability to access shared files, centralized databases, or applications, creating inefficiency.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Restart the PC. Verify network credentials. Check firewall settings to ensure access is not blocked.

7. External Monitor Not Detected

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Reduces staff efficiency for multi-tasking and operational reporting.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Check the cable connection (HDMI/VGA) on both the computer and monitor. Update the display drivers for the graphics card.

8. Accidental File Deletion

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Direct loss of critical client data, financial records, or IP, introducing severe risk.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Check the Recycle Bin or Trash folder immediately. Ensure a proper backup solution is in place for guaranteed recovery.

9. Suspected Virus/Malware

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Potential for security breach, data theft, and catastrophic system shutdown.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Isolate the infected device from the network. Run a full scan with up-to-date antivirus software.

10. Phishing Attempts

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) The leading cause of security breaches, leveraging human error and compromising data.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Educate users on identifying suspicious emails. Do not click suspicious links or attachments.

11. Computer Won't Turn On

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Complete work stoppage; the most immediate and disruptive hardware failure.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Ensure the power cable is securely plugged into both the wall outlet and the computer. Try a different power outlet.

12. Overheating (Laptops/PCs)

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Leads to system instability, sudden shutdowns, and potential component damage.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Ensure proper ventilation and clear airflow. Clean dust from vents and components using compressed air.

13. Software Update Failures

• Business Impact & Relevance (Financial Services/Healthcare) Creates security vulnerabilities and risks related to compliance (SEC/FINRA/HIPAA).

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Verify stable internet connection and sufficient free disk space. Consult support resources for the specific operating system if the service malfunctions.

14. Unsaved Work Loss

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Loss of hours of work, leading to immediate time waste and re-work.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Check for the software's autosave functionality or look for autosaved versions of the file.

15. Projector Not Displaying

• Business Impact & Relevance (Growth-Focused Owner) Hinders strategic planning, client presentations, or training sessions.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Verify the cable connection. Check the projector's input source setting to match the connection used (e.g., HDMI).

16. Mobile Device Won't Charge

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Inability to communicate, access email, or use essential business applications while away from the office.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Inspect the charging cable for damage. Check the charging port for debris/dust and carefully clean it (device off).

17. Error Messages (Cryptic Codes)

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Frustrates self-troubleshooting and signals an underlying issue.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Research the error code online to find potential solutions and troubleshooting steps. Consult specific software documentation.

18. Unrecognized USB Device

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Prevents data transfer, backup, or use of necessary peripherals.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Restart the computer. Try a different USB port. Update drivers.

19. Slow VPN Connection

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Reduces the efficiency of remote work and connectivity between multi-location offices.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Check internet connection speed. Connect to a VPN server geographically closer to your location.

20. New Equipment Setup

• Business Impact & Relevance (All Verticals) Increases administrative burden and risk of improper security configuration.

• Quick, Actionable Resolution Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Have your IT partner configure network settings and verify the security posture of the new device before deployment.

Need expert help to move beyond quick fixes? Stop losing valuable time and money to these recurring issues. Engage with our complimentary advisory service to be matched with a rigorously vetted MSP that can proactively manage your IT and deliver the predictability your business requires.

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*Don't attempt these resolutions without an IT professional's guidance