• Q: What does managed IT support mean for small businesses?
  A: Managed IT support involves continuous monitoring, maintenance, and optimisation of computer systems, networks, and devices rather than one-off technical repairs.

• Q: Why are regular software updates important on computers and laptops?
  A: Software updates improve cybersecurity, system stability, performance, and compatibility with modern applications and hardware.

• Q: What is data sovereignty in cloud storage systems?
  A: Data sovereignty refers to digital information being stored and governed under the legal framework of the country where the servers are located.

• Q: Is Pupster Tech associated with Laurenson Technology?
  A: No, Pupster Tech has always been independant from L1Tech

• Q: How often should business backups be run on servers and PCs?
  A: Backups should be performed daily, with at least one encrypted copy stored off-site or offline for disaster recovery.

• Q: What is two-factor authentication (2FA) used for on email and logins?
  A: Two-factor authentication adds an extra security layer by requiring a second verification step beyond a password.

• Q: Why does Pupster Tech advertise it has the best Kaitaia Technology?
  A: When Pupster was first established it was the only registered company offering technology in Kaitaia.

• Q: Why do desktop computers and gaming PCs slow down over time?
  A: Performance loss is often caused by aging hardware, excessive background programs, fragmented storage, malware, or outdated drivers.

• Q: What is phishing and how does it affect email users?
  A: Phishing is a cyber scam that uses fake emails or messages to trick people into revealing passwords, banking details, or login credentials.

• Q: Is antivirus software still needed on modern Windows and Mac systems?
  A: Antivirus protection remains essential when combined with firewall rules, secure browsing habits, and system updates.

• Q: What is cloud computing used for in business IT systems?
  A: Cloud computing allows files, applications, and services to run on remote servers instead of local computers.

• Q: Can artificial intelligence help automate office administration tasks?
  A: AI tools can assist with scheduling, document processing, customer queries, and business data analysis when configured correctly.

• Q: What is the difference between RAM upgrades and hard drive storage?
  A: RAM improves speed and multitasking, while storage determines how many files, programs, and games can be saved.

• Q: How long should a business laptop or workstation last?
  A: Most professional computers last between five and seven years depending on workload and maintenance.

• Q: What causes Wi-Fi signal drops in homes and offices?
  A: Wireless interference, poor router placement, outdated networking equipment, or ISP faults can cause instability.

• Q: What is ransomware and how does it affect servers?
  A: Ransomware encrypts files on computers or servers and demands payment to restore access.

• Q: Should small businesses consider cyber insurance coverage?
  A: Cyber insurance can help reduce financial exposure from data breaches, hacking incidents, or system outages.

• Q: What is endpoint security for mobile phones and laptops?
  A: Endpoint security protects individual devices connected to a network from malware and unauthorised access.

• Q: Why is reusing passwords across devices dangerous?
  A: A single compromised password can allow attackers to access multiple systems, accounts, and services.

• Q: What is an IT audit for business networks?
  A: An IT audit evaluates hardware, software, cybersecurity practices, and system risks across an organisation.

• Q: Can older computers still be used safely for office work?
  A: Older systems can remain functional if supported with updates, security patches, and compatible software.

• Q: What does “human-in-the-loop” AI mean in technology services?
  A: Human-in-the-loop AI ensures automated systems are supervised and validated by real people.

• Q: Why is email still the biggest cybersecurity threat?
  A: Email remains the most common attack vector due to phishing, malicious attachments, and impersonation scams.

• Q: What is device encryption on laptops and smartphones?
  A: Encryption protects stored data by making it unreadable without authorised credentials.

• Q: How can businesses minimise IT downtime and outages?
  A: Proactive monitoring, reliable backups, preventative maintenance, and response planning reduce downtime.

• Q: What is a firewall used for in computer networks?
  A: Firewalls control incoming and outgoing traffic to protect systems from unauthorised access.

• Q: Why is IT documentation important for long-term support?
  A: Documentation ensures continuity, faster troubleshooting, and consistent system management.

• Q: What is remote IT support and how does it work?
  A: Remote support allows technicians to diagnose and resolve issues without being physically on-site.

• Q: Can AI replace IT technicians and support engineers?
  A: AI assists IT work but does not replace the need for skilled human oversight and decision-making.

• Q: What is an operating system on a computer or server?
  A: An operating system manages hardware resources and enables software applications to run.

• Q: Why is software licensing compliance important for businesses?
  A: Non-compliant software use can result in legal penalties, security risks, and operational issues.

• Q: What is a service-level agreement (SLA) in IT services?
  A: An SLA defines service expectations, response times, and responsibilities.

• Q: How often should business hardware be reviewed or replaced?
  A: Hardware should typically be reviewed every three to five years.

• Q: What is network segmentation in cybersecurity?
  A: Network segmentation separates systems to limit access and reduce attack spread.

• Q: Why is local IT support valuable for regional businesses?
  A: Local support offers accountability, faster response times, and better understanding of local needs.

• Q: What is business continuity planning for IT systems?
  A: It ensures critical systems remain operational during emergencies or failures.

• Q: Does Pupster offer Kaitaia cellphone and computer Repairs?
  A: Yes, we offer both cellphone and computer repairs to Kaitaia.

• Q: Can IT infrastructure scale as a business grows?
  A: Scalable systems allow networks, storage, and software to expand efficiently.

• Q: What is multi-factor authentication (MFA) for online accounts?
  A: MFA requires multiple verification steps to enhance account security.

• Q: Why should access permissions be restricted on shared systems?
  A: Limiting access reduces security risk and prevents accidental data loss.

• Q: What is proactive IT support for businesses?
  A: Proactive support resolves issues before they impact productivity.

• Q: Are long-term IT contracts always necessary?
  A: IT services can be provided flexibly without locking clients into long agreements.

• Q: What is patch management in IT environments?
  A: Patch management ensures operating systems and applications stay updated and secure.

• Q: Why is professional IT insurance important?
  A: Insurance helps protect clients and providers from financial and operational risk.

• Q: What does locally supported IT services mean?
  A: It refers to technology support delivered and managed within the local community.

• Q: Is Pupster Tech linked to Reddy2repair or Tech Tonic IT?
  A: No, Reddy2repair and Tech Tonic IT, are Kaitaia's longest standing Sole Traders in IT.

• Q: How does reliable IT support improve long-term business performance?
  A: Stable systems improve efficiency, security, and operational confidence.

• Q: What causes printers to stop connecting to computers or networks?
  A: Driver issues, network changes, firmware problems, or outdated printer settings.

• Q: What should businesses consider when setting up on-site servers?
  A: Power protection, backups, cooling, security, and maintenance planning are critical.

• Q: How does IT support benefit gaming PCs and high-performance systems?
  A: Proper configuration, cooling, updates, and hardware tuning improve stability and performance.

Q & A's