Small Business IT Problems: Real Questions, Expert Answers

From suspicious login warnings to printers that seem possessed, small business IT issues can feel random—but they’re not. Every error message and glitch has a cause. In this guide, the experts at Slick Cyber Systems answer real customer questions about cybersecurity, network health, and the tech frustrations that drive office managers crazy.

1. “Suspicious Network Activity” – Is It Just a Glitch?

Question from Cara:
“I’ve been getting pop-up warnings about unauthorized login attempts, and some of our front desk devices are disconnecting. Is this a glitch or something serious?”

Answer:
If your computer says “unauthorized login attempt,” treat it as serious—not a random hiccup.

Most of the time, this alert means there’s an infected machine or a Trojan trying to connect to your network. Here’s what to do:

• Disconnect the device from Ethernet or Wi-Fi immediately.
• Run a deep malware scan using trusted tools like SpyHunter or Trend Micro.
• Call your IT provider to review logs and traffic patterns.

Rule of thumb: Pop-up security warnings are rarely glitches—they’re signs of a compromised system.

2. Microsoft 365 Lockouts – When Passwords Haven’t Changed

Question from Ben:
“Some staff are randomly getting locked out of Microsoft accounts, even though passwords haven’t changed.”

Answer:
This usually happens when hackers attempt unauthorized logins using stolen or guessed passwords. Microsoft locks accounts after too many failed attempts.

Fix it fast:

• Force a company-wide password reset.
• Log out all sessions across Microsoft 365.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) if it’s not already active.

Pro tip: Require password changes every 90 days and review login logs quarterly.

3. The Printer Problem That Never Dies

Question from Janine:
“Our office printer works for some users, fails for others, and sometimes gives driver errors with no explanation. We’ve reinstalled drivers twice and are ready to toss it out the window.”

Answer:
You’re not alone—printers are infamous for causing headaches. Common culprits include:

• Driver mismatch: Different PCs using different driver versions.
• Network confusion: Some users print via a server, others direct-connect.
• Firmware issues: Outdated printer firmware can cause random errors.

Solutions:

• Standardize drivers and share from one print server.
• Avoid “Smart Printer” drivers designed for home use.
• If problems persist, it may be time for a replacement.

4. Remote Access for Small Law Firms

Question from Marcy (Boutique Law Firm):
“Our attorneys struggle to access case files remotely. Half the time it works, half the time I get panicked calls from the field.”

Answer:
The most reliable solution is Remote Desktop Server (RDS) or Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI).

Why it works:

• Attorneys connect securely to the office network.
• All work happens on the server—data never leaves your secure environment.
• Performance feels local—fast, smooth, and consistent.

Pair RDS with a VPN or Zero Trust access for compliance and security.

What These Scenarios Have in Common

• Human habits: password reuse, ignoring warnings, skipping updates.
• Aging tech: outdated drivers, no MFA, old antivirus.
• Reactive fixes instead of proactive planning.

Small businesses don’t need enterprise-level budgets to fix these issues—just a solid IT partner, the right tools, and good digital hygiene.

The Slick Cyber Systems Approach

At Slick Cyber Systems, we help businesses across the U.S. prevent, detect, and resolve everyday IT problems—before they cause downtime or data loss.

Our services include:

• Network security monitoring
• Endpoint protection and malware cleanup
• Microsoft 365 and email security setup
• Remote desktop and VPN solutions
• Proactive IT maintenance and helpdesk support

📞 Call us: 570-215-8888
🌐 Visit: www.slickcybersystems.com