5 Myths in the IT Industry

In this article, we bust some of the IT industry’s most persistent myths surrounding the nature of hardware, software and caring for your electronic devices.

We’ll teach you the truths about some of the industry’s most common beliefs so that you’re in the know. Let’s see how many of the following you thought were true!

So, without further ado, let’s bust some myths!

Myth 1: New hardware is better than refurbished

It’s a common myth everywhere these days to assume that newer means better. After all, we have become accustomed to being surrounded by brands of various industries promoting their ‘new and improved’ products for centuries. From the latest model of car, right down to a simple Bluetooth mouse, it has been emphasised to us that new is always superior.

Most people feel pressured into having the latest version of something to keep up with the crowd, however, research with the University of East London (2020) has proved that this is not always true. In their research, they found that the implementation of CPUs (Central Processing Units), server RAM (Random Access Memory), and data storage was indistinguishable in quality and capacity between a new server and quality restored server of the same model and manufacturer.

Myth 2: It’s safer to store data on the premises, rather than in the cloud

It’s a common misconception is that storing your data in a separate location from your workplace that the files are not as safe. This is simply not true.

Cloud storage (virtual storage via a third party) uses some of the world’s most heavily protected servers, guarded by complex alarm systems in vast, secure compounds, often guarded 24/7. So, in reality, storing your data on the cloud is a much safer bet for keeping your data and digital property safe and sound, without the need to maintain a physical server yourself.

Myth 3: Common sense is a fitting alternative to antivirus software

Common sense when accessing external files and assets is definitely a key contributing factor in keeping your data safe. Knowing what precautions you and your employees should be taking to prevent your systems becoming compromised is essential. However, with this being said, it is not to be used as a fitting alternative to using the correct antivirus software for your operating system.

Antivirus software actively prevents, detects and diminishes the risk against malicious software or programmes becoming entangled in your computers’ hard drives and systems. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to cyber security and keeping your data safe.

Myth 4: You should shut your computer down every night

In the not-so distant past, hard drives and operating systems inside computers were not as hardwearing or robust. Consequently, IT technicians and manufacturers would recommend that your computer should be shut down every night to prevent excessive wear, however, in today’s world, this is no longer necessary.

The components inside your computers and electronic devices are now built to last, using materials which have been refined for increased lifespan. However, if you are looking to save energy costs, we still recommend that you use a power-saving mode or switch off any equipment at the mains if it is not needed. It is also recommend to power down your devices regularly to install automatic security updates released by your operating system’s manufacturer. So although you don't need to shut down your computer every night, we do recommend shutting it down at least once per week. 

Myth 5: Deleting content from your computer erases it from your hard drive permanently

Unfortunately, this is one of the most persistent myths of them all and has led to the demise of many companies’ reputations. Whilst it is true that when you delete files from your computer you cannot access them via your documents or downloads, this does not mean they have been removed completely.

When you delete a file, your data storage marks this as available space on your hard drive, meaning that the space the file originally took-up can be overwritten with something else. However, unless you permanently overwrite the files you have deleted via specialised tools, the data is still recoverable, meaning simply deleting something from your computer isn’t the permanent fix you may hope for.

Common IT Myths: Busted!

So, there you have it, the top 5 myths of the IT industry have been busted.

If you find yourself asking questions about other areas of IT, including cyber security, tech support, or cloud services, then get in touch with our technical team today.