Spring is the season of fresh starts. It’s when we finally open the windows, sweep out the corners we’ve ignored all winter, and get organized for the months ahead. And just like your office or workspace might need a deep clean this time of year, your technology could use one too.
If you’re like many small to midsize businesses across Northeast Ohio—from Akron to Canton to Cleveland—your team depends on technology to keep things moving. But over time, even the best-run systems accumulate digital clutter, outdated processes, and security risks hiding in plain sight. That’s where an annual IT spring cleaning can make a big difference.
From improving performance and staying compliant to reducing downtime and protecting your data, taking time now to declutter and refresh your tech can set you up for smoother sailing all year long. Here’s a helpful checklist to get started:
Spring Clean Your Tech | Checklist
1. Dust Off the Hardware
Yes, we’re starting with the literal kind of cleaning. Dust buildup can clog vents, cause overheating, and wear down hardware over time. Take a few minutes to:
- Wipe screens with a microfiber cloth
- Blow out keyboards with compressed air
- Untangle and label cables to reduce wear and future confusion
- Check that laptops and docking stations are stored properly
Small steps like these can improve device longevity and create a more pleasant (and professional-looking) workspace.
2. Declutter Your Desktop
A cluttered digital desktop slows down more than just your productivity—it can make it harder to find what you need in the moment. Take time to:
- Organize files into folders
- Delete duplicates or temporary files
- Move long-term files to shared storage or backup drives
3. Clean Out Downloads and Online Storage
Your downloads folder is probably a digital junk drawer—and your cloud storage might not be far behind. Set aside time to:
- Delete old downloads and install files
- Clear out screen captures or meeting recordings you no longer need
- Archive large files you might need for compliance but don’t use day-to-day
This helps free up space and keeps your system running more smoothly.
4. Refresh SharePoint (or Your File Management Tool)
If you use SharePoint or a similar file-sharing platform, now’s a great time to audit your shared folders. Look for:
- Duplicate files or outdated versions
- Old project folders that can be archived
- Permissions that need adjusting (more on that below)
Keeping your shared environment lean improves team efficiency and prevents accidental data exposure.
5. Update Passwords (and Consider a Manager)
If it’s been a while since you or your team updated passwords, spring is a good time. Use this opportunity to:
- Create strong, unique passwords for each account
- Turn on multi-factor authentication wherever possible
- Consider implementing a password manager across the organization for better security and ease of access
Weak or reused passwords are still one of the biggest security risks for small businesses—this step is easy to overlook, but crucial.
6. Unsubscribe from the Noise
Over time, inboxes fill up with newsletters, promotional emails, and updates that no longer serve you. Set aside a few minutes to:
- Unsubscribe from unwanted emails
- Mark senders as spam when needed
- Organize your inbox with folders or rules for better flow
This not only cuts down on clutter, it can also reduce phishing risk by limiting unnecessary noise.
7. Review App Permissions
Many business tools and apps request access to data or permissions when first installed—and then never ask again. Regularly reviewing these permissions helps:
- Improve your cybersecurity posture
- Prevent unauthorized data access
- Minimize potential vulnerabilities if an app becomes compromised
Be sure to check third-party integrations with platforms like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or CRM systems.
8. Clean Up Your Data
Good data hygiene saves time, improves reporting, and protects your brand’s reputation. Take time to:
- Remove duplicate or outdated contact records
- Standardize formatting across systems (names, addresses, phone numbers)
- Update missing fields that affect marketing, sales, or service processes
Clean data = smarter decisions + smoother automation.
9. Update Your Operating System | Plan for Windows 10 End of Life
If you still have devices running Windows 10, Microsoft will officially end support in October 2025—but it’s not too early to prepare. Start:
- Identifying affected devices
- Budgeting for upgrades or replacements
- Working with your IT team (or a trusted partner) to build a transition timeline
Getting ahead now means avoiding a last-minute scramble later.
10. Clear Out the Server Room (We’ll Help)
Have a pile of old laptops, monitors, backup drives, or network gear gathering dust? Don’t let them take up space—or pose a data risk. AtNetPlus offers e-recycling services to help you safely and responsibly dispose of old technology.
Just reach out to your Client Success Manager and we’ll walk you through the process. We’ll make sure everything is wiped clean and recycled properly—no stress, no mess.
Bonus Tip: Clean Up Manual Processes with a Touch of AI
As you’re tidying up files and refreshing your systems, it’s also a great time to take a look at the processes behind the tech. Are there repetitive tasks—like manual data entry, report generation, or routine customer communications—that are slowing your team down?
Manual processes can create digital clutter too: wasted time, bottlenecks, and room for human error. Fortunately, AI Automation makes it easier than ever to:
- Streamline workflows
- Give your team back valuable hours
- Reduce costly mistakes
If you’re curious about where to start or what’s worth automating, check out our latest blog:
It’s packed with simple ideas to help your business work smarter, not harder—and grow more efficiently in the months ahead.
A Little Cleaning Now = A Lot Less Stress Later
Tech spring cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By breaking it down into manageable steps—and tackling just a few items at a time—you can improve performance, reduce risks, and set your business up for a smoother, more secure year.
And if you ever need a hand—from upgrading systems to managing e-waste—AtNetPlus is here to help. We’re proud to support local businesses across Northeast Ohio, and we’re just a call or email away.