Essential IT Setup Guide for New Adelaide Small Businesses
Starting a business in Adelaide is exciting, but getting your IT infrastructure right from the beginning can save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches later. After helping hundreds of Adelaide startups and small businesses, we've created this comprehensive guide to get your technology foundation right.
IT Planning: Before You Buy Anything
1. Assess Your Business Needs
Key Questions to Ask:
- How many employees will you have initially?
- What type of work will they be doing?
- Do you need specialized software?
- Will employees work remotely?
- What's your growth plan for the next 2-3 years?
2. Set Your IT Budget
Typical IT Costs for Adelaide Small Businesses:
- Computers: $800-1,500 per employee
- Software: $50-200 per employee per month
- Networking: $500-2,000 one-time setup
- Security: $20-100 per employee per month
- Backup & Storage: $50-300 per month
Sample 5-Employee Budget:
Initial Setup:
- Computers (5x): $6,000
- Network setup: $1,500
- Software licenses: $500
- Security setup: $800
Total: $8,800
Monthly Costs:
- Software subscriptions: $750
- Internet: $100
- Security services: $200
- Cloud storage: $150
Total: $1,200/month
Computer Hardware Selection
Desktop vs. Laptop Decision
Choose Desktops When:
- Employees work primarily in-office
- You need maximum performance for budget
- Security is a top priority
- Employees use multiple monitors
Choose Laptops When:
- Flexibility and mobility are important
- Office space is limited
- Employees travel or work from home
- Easy collaboration is needed
Recommended Specifications (2024)
Budget Office Computer ($800-1,000):
- Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor
- 8GB RAM (16GB preferred)
- 256GB SSD storage
- Integrated graphics
- Windows 11 Pro
Performance Business Computer ($1,200-1,500):
- Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processor
- 16GB RAM
- 512GB SSD storage
- Dedicated graphics (if needed)
- Windows 11 Pro
Specialized Workstation ($2,000+):
- Intel i9 or AMD Ryzen 9 processor
- 32GB+ RAM
- 1TB+ SSD storage
- Professional graphics card
- Specialized software requirements
Adelaide Suppliers We Recommend
Local Options:
- MSY Technology: Great prices, local support
- Scorptec: Quality builds, good warranties
- Harvey Norman Commercial: Business-focused service
- JB Hi-Fi Business: Competitive pricing, broad selection
Business Leasing Options:
- HP Financial Services: Flexible payment plans
- Dell Financial Services: End-of-lease options
- Grenke Leasing: Local Australian leasing company
Essential Software Suite
Operating System Choice
Windows 11 Pro (Recommended for most businesses):
- Pros: Familiar interface, broad software compatibility, strong business features
- Cons: License costs, security maintenance required
- Cost: $200-300 per computer
macOS (For creative businesses):
- Pros: Excellent for design/video work, strong security, good user experience
- Cons: Higher hardware costs, some business software limitations
- Cost: Built into Mac purchase
Office Productivity Software
Microsoft 365 Business ($10-30/user/month):
- Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook
- OneDrive cloud storage (1TB per user)
- Teams for communication
- SharePoint for collaboration
- Advanced security features
Google Workspace ($8-25/user/month):
- Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Slides
- Google Drive storage
- Google Meet for video calls
- Collaborative editing
- Strong mobile integration
Comparison for Adelaide Businesses: | Feature | Microsoft 365 | Google Workspace | |---------|---------------|------------------| | Offline Work | Excellent | Limited | | Collaboration | Good | Excellent | | Integration | Windows-focused | Cross-platform | | Learning Curve | Familiar | Simple | | Cost | Higher | Lower |
Accounting Software
MYOB Business ($50-100/month):
- Australian tax compliance
- Payroll integration
- Inventory management
- Strong local support
Xero ($30-70/month):
- Cloud-based accessibility
- Excellent app integrations
- User-friendly interface
- Strong automation features
QuickBooks Online ($25-60/month):
- Easy setup and use
- Good mobile apps
- Automatic backups
- Integration with many business tools
Industry-Specific Software
Legal: LEAP, LawMaster, Smokeball Healthcare: Best Practice, Medical Director, Zedmed Retail: Lightspeed, Square, Shopify POS Construction: Procore, BuilderTREND, JobBOSS Real Estate: Console, PropertyMe, REST Professional
Networking Infrastructure
Internet Connection Planning
Business Internet Options in Adelaide:
NBN Business Plans:
- Basic (25/5 Mbps): $60-80/month - Good for 2-5 users
- Standard (50/20 Mbps): $80-120/month - Good for 5-15 users
- Premium (100/40 Mbps): $120-180/month - Good for 15-30 users
- Enterprise (250/100 Mbps): $200-400/month - Good for 30+ users
Key Providers:
- Telstra Business: Premium support, Australia-wide coverage
- Optus Business: Competitive pricing, good Adelaide coverage
- Aussie Broadband: Excellent customer service, transparent pricing
- TPG Business: Budget-friendly options, reliable service
Network Setup Components
Essential Equipment:
Business Router/Firewall ($200-800):
- Budget: TP-Link Archer series
- Business: ASUS RT-AX business line
- Enterprise: SonicWall, Fortinet options
Network Switch ($100-500):
- 8-port for small offices
- 24-port for larger setups
- Managed switches for advanced features
Wireless Access Points ($150-400 each):
- UniFi for scalable business networks
- Cisco for enterprise environments
- Netgear for budget-conscious setups
Network Cabling:
- Cat6 cable for future-proofing
- Professional installation recommended
- Budget $50-100 per network point
Network Security Setup
Firewall Configuration:
Essential Rules:
1. Block all unnecessary incoming connections
2. Allow only required business applications
3. Enable intrusion detection and prevention
4. Set up content filtering for productivity
5. Configure VPN access for remote workers
Wi-Fi Security Best Practices:
- Use WPA3 encryption (minimum WPA2)
- Create separate guest network
- Hide network name (SSID) if desired
- Use strong, unique passwords
- Regular password rotation
Security Infrastructure
Antivirus and Endpoint Protection
Business-Grade Solutions:
Bitdefender GravityZone ($30-50/device/year):
- Advanced threat detection
- Centralized management console
- Web protection and firewall
- Minimal system impact
Microsoft Defender for Business ($3/user/month):
- Integrated with Microsoft 365
- Advanced threat protection
- Email and collaboration security
- Endpoint detection and response
CrowdStrike Falcon Go ($8-15/user/month):
- AI-powered threat detection
- Real-time protection
- Incident response support
- Cloud-based management
Backup and Disaster Recovery
Local Backup Solutions:
- Synology NAS: $400-1,500 for local backup storage
- QNAP NAS: Alternative to Synology with similar features
- External drives: Simple but less reliable option
Cloud Backup Services:
- Acronis Cyber Backup: $69-179/workstation/year
- Carbonite Safe: $50-150/computer/year
- Backblaze Business: $60/computer/year
- AWS Backup: Pay-as-you-use pricing
Backup Strategy for Adelaide Businesses:
Daily: Critical business files to cloud
Weekly: Full system images to local NAS
Monthly: Archive important data offsite
Quarterly: Test restore procedures
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Implementation Priority:
- Email accounts (highest priority)
- Cloud storage and file sharing
- Accounting and financial software
- Remote access systems (VPN)
- Social media and marketing accounts
Recommended MFA Tools:
- Microsoft Authenticator: Free, integrates well with Microsoft 365
- Google Authenticator: Free, works with most services
- Authy: Free, includes backup and sync features
- 1Password: Premium option with team features
Communication and Collaboration
Business Phone Systems
Traditional Options:
- Hosted PBX: $25-50/user/month, professional features
- SIP Trunking: $10-30/line/month, use existing phones
- ISDN: Being phased out, not recommended for new setups
Modern VoIP Solutions:
- Microsoft Teams Phone: $8-20/user/month, integrates with Office
- 3CX: $150-400/year per extension, on-premise or cloud
- RingCentral: $20-45/user/month, comprehensive features
- Zoom Phone: $10-25/user/month, integrates with video
Video Conferencing
Platform Comparison: | Platform | Monthly Cost | Best For | |----------|--------------|----------| | Microsoft Teams | $6-22/user | Office 365 users | | Zoom | $15-20/user | Meeting-focused | | Google Meet | $8-25/user | Google Workspace users | | GoToMeeting | $12-16/user | Traditional businesses |
File Sharing and Collaboration
Cloud Storage Solutions:
- Microsoft OneDrive: Included with Microsoft 365
- Google Drive: Included with Google Workspace
- Dropbox Business: $15-25/user/month
- Box Business: $15-35/user/month
On-Premise Options:
- Synology Drive: Use with Synology NAS
- Nextcloud: Open-source, self-hosted
- Windows File Server: Traditional file sharing
Implementation Timeline
Week 1: Planning and Procurement
- [ ] Finalize requirements and budget
- [ ] Order computers and equipment
- [ ] Purchase software licenses
- [ ] Schedule internet installation
Week 2: Infrastructure Setup
- [ ] Install and configure network equipment
- [ ] Set up internet connection
- [ ] Configure wireless networks
- [ ] Install security software
Week 3: Computer Setup
- [ ] Install operating systems and software
- [ ] Configure user accounts and permissions
- [ ] Set up email and communication tools
- [ ] Install and test backup systems
Week 4: Testing and Training
- [ ] Test all systems and integrations
- [ ] Train employees on new systems
- [ ] Document processes and procedures
- [ ] Create IT support contacts
Ongoing IT Management
Monthly Tasks
- [ ] Review security updates and patches
- [ ] Test backup and restore procedures
- [ ] Monitor network performance
- [ ] Review user access and permissions
Quarterly Tasks
- [ ] Comprehensive security assessment
- [ ] Software license audit
- [ ] Hardware performance review
- [ ] IT budget planning and forecasting
Annual Tasks
- [ ] Complete security penetration testing
- [ ] Hardware refresh planning
- [ ] Software renewal negotiations
- [ ] Disaster recovery testing
When to Get Professional Help
DIY Warning Signs
- Spending more time on IT than your business
- Frequent system crashes or security issues
- Employees losing productivity due to tech problems
- Compliance or security requirements beyond your expertise
Professional IT Services
Managed IT Services ($100-200/user/month):
- Proactive monitoring and maintenance
- Help desk support
- Security management
- Strategic planning
Project-Based Services ($100-200/hour):
- Initial setup and configuration
- Software implementation
- Security assessments
- Training and documentation
Adelaide Business Resources
Local IT Support
- Adelaide IT Services: Specializing in small business setups
- Internode Business: Local Adelaide provider with business focus
- Data#3: Enterprise solutions with local presence
Training and Education
- TAFE SA: IT courses for staff development
- University of Adelaide: Technology partnership opportunities
- Business SA: Resources and networking for local businesses
Government Support
- Business.gov.au: Federal government business resources
- Government of South Australia: State-specific business support
- Adelaide City Council: Local business development programs
Conclusion
Setting up IT infrastructure for your Adelaide small business doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following this guide and investing in the right foundation from the start, you'll:
- Save money in the long run
- Improve employee productivity
- Enhance security and compliance
- Position your business for growth
Remember, technology should support your business goals, not distract from them. Start with the essentials, plan for growth, and don't hesitate to get professional help when needed.
Need Help Setting Up Your Business IT? Our Adelaide IT Services team specializes in small business technology setups. We provide:
- Complete IT infrastructure planning
- Hardware procurement and setup
- Software configuration and training
- Ongoing support and maintenance
Contact us at adelaideit5000@gmail.com or call 0434 885 185 for a free consultation and customized IT plan for your Adelaide business.