Running a small business in a rural area requires grit, resourcefulness, and a whole lot of patience, especially when your technology holds you back. At All-Access Infotech, we've seen firsthand how these businesses are affected by infrastructure limitations, staffing gaps, and rising security threats. And we've spent over 30 years helping them fix it.
Here are the five most common IT problems rural small businesses face and what you can do to stay ahead of them.
1. Limited Internet Connectivity
According to a report from the FCC, 22.3% of Americans in rural areas, such as in the Upper Valley area, cannot access reliable broadband. In Vermont, New Hampshire, and other rural areas, reliable high-speed internet is still far from guaranteed. This affects cloud backups, VoIP phone systems, video conferencing, point-of-sale systems, and even basic web browsing. When connectivity is inconsistent, it causes delays in customer service, disrupts workflows, and creates major headaches for teams.
Solution:
- Take advantage of every connectivity option available, such as LEC, satellite, or LTE.
- Partner with a local IT provider who knows where fiber ends, and satellite options begin. They'll help identify the most stable internet options in your area.
- Use bandwidth-efficient cloud applications that store data locally and sync when bandwidth allows.
- Set up Quality of Service (QoS) settings on your router to prioritize critical traffic like VoIP or cloud access over streaming and large downloads.
2. Outdated Equipment and Software
Many rural businesses lack access to the latest digital tools, which can prevent them from taking advantage of new tech and upgrades. Aging computers, unsupported software, and unpatched systems cause frequent crashes and create security vulnerabilities.
Solution:
- Work with an MSP for managed IT services to implement a tech refresh plan. Your MSP will know what your network can handle and the best way for your business to replace aging systems and keep your day-to-day operations running.
- Migrate operations like email, document storage, and customer relationship management (CRM) to cloud-based services such as Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace to avoid data loss.
- Ensure all software licenses are up-to-date and that security patches are installed regularly.
3. Lack of Internal IT Staff
Most small businesses in the Upper Valley and other rural areas across the country can't justify hiring a full-time, in-house IT professional. So, when systems go down, troubleshooting falls to employees, who are not IT experts. What's more it takes them away from their regular duties. This leads to businesses experiencing prolonged downtime or paying steep hourly fees for emergency fixes.
Solution:
- Partner with a Managed Services Provider (MSP) familiar with your area that offers full-service IT coverage, including remote monitoring, help desk support, and on-site visits. All-Access Infotech specializes in working with rural businesses.
- Schedule quarterly IT strategy sessions with your MSP to discuss upcoming needs, risk management, and potential improvements.
- Choose an MSP that proactively manages your systems and sends your regular updates, communicating clearly, in plain English. Avoid the MSPs that only show up when something goes wrong.
4. No Clear IT Strategy
Too many rural businesses take a reactive approach to IT, only reaching out for help when something breaks. Without a defined IT plan or a reliable MPS, technology issues lead to unplanned expenses, lost productivity, and systems that are patched together.
Solution:
- Work with your MSP and IT professionals to develop a 12-24-month IT roadmap that aligns with your operational goals and budget constraints.
- Set up a plan for when emergencies inevitable do happen. Train employees to know how to react to avoid extra downtime.
- Review compliance requirements for your industry and ensure your infrastructure is built to meet them.
5. Poor Cybersecurity Practices
There is no such thing as a business too small to be targeted by cyber threats. In fact, attackers often assume small businesses have weaker cyber defenses. Breaches result in stolen customer data, ransomware lockdowns, and significant downtime. Depending on the type of business, breaches can lead to compliance violations, fines, penalties, or even lawsuits.
Solution:
- Embrace multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all email, cloud, and financial platforms.
- Use endpoint protection software and implement a zero-trust security model that limits user access to only what they need.
- Conduct staff cybersecurity training to help employees recognize phishing emails and social engineering tactics.
- Run monthly vulnerability scans and ensure backups are encrypted, tested, and stored offsite or in the cloud.
So, while it might seem like your small business might not need to invest in staff training or extra protection, it's always better to be safe than sorry.
Why Local Insight Makes the Difference
All of these challenges are amplified in rural areas, where cookie-cutter IT solutions often fail. A national MSP may not know what your internet speeds look like during a snowstorm or that your office is in a building with 1930s wiring. Local expertise matters.
At All-Access Infotech, we combine technical skills and in-depth knowledge of the Upper Valley region. We understand the infrastructure, vendors, and constraints rural businesses face. We are considered IT historians for the Upper Valley and that knowledge can make a huge difference in managing your IT solutions.
We don't just fix problems, we work alongside you to build an IT foundation that's reliable, secure, and scalable.
Book a Call with Our CEO to see how All-Access Infotech can help your small business modernize and thrive.
Click Here or give us a call at (802) 331-1900 to Book a FREE Discovery Call
Key Takeaways
- Limited internet, outdated hardware, and lack of internal IT support are persistent problems for rural small businesses.
- Cybersecurity threats are real, and small businesses must be proactive about defense.
- A clear, long-term IT strategy saves money and improves operations.
- Local IT providers understand the rural landscape and offer personalized support that national firms can't.
