2026 is right around the corner! You may already be thinking about their next year’s resolutions. Why not dedicate some of them to your IT? Instead of falling into the same routine of creating another list of resolutions you’re likely to break by February, try making a solid plan to improve your security, productivity, and resilience next year.
IT Resolutions 2026 (that you will not abandon by February):
1. AI Is Here to Stay- Use It, But Securely
You can’t sit this one out. Your employees are already using AI tools, whether you’ve approved them or not. Your job is to put guardrails in place before mistakes become problems (downtime).
A smart AI strategy for 2026 includes:
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Create an AI policy. Define what tools are allowed, what data employees can use with them, and what must stay off-limits. Have every employee review and sign it.
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Budget for approved AI tools. Don’t rely on free apps, they often lack security controls. Pay for the solutions you trust and block the ones you don’t.
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Educate your team. Train employees on how to use AI safely, avoid data exposure, and follow your policy.
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Review your AI posture regularly. Threats evolve quickly. Adjust your policy and tools throughout the year.
- Have questions about AI and its safety? Drop us a line!
Your Non-negotiable Security Resolutions
2. Start Using MFA on All Critical Apps
MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) is a security process that requires users to provide multiple forms of identification before accessing accounts or systems. It’s a simple yet crucial step for keeping your business running, your people productive, and your data safe. Every business should treat it as non-negotiable.
3. Shield Your Business with a Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Solution
Think of it as a dedicated 24/7 security team watching your environment. It continuously monitors your network for unusual activities and potential threats. The main benefit? This smart software alerts the cyber response center about potential risks. My advice is to invest in it in 2026: it’s not as expensive as you might think and adds another layer to your security strategy.
4. Stop Reusing Passwords — Get a Password Manager
Needless to say, any password manager app is better than keeping passwords in Notes or reusing Password123 across all your devices and applications. With a password manager, you can securely share credentials with your team, leverage browser extensions for a seamless user experience, and rest assured that your passwords are safe.
Bonus IT Resolutions:
- Back-Up Your Data – I’ve written several blogs about the need to back up your data (here and here). I’m not just talking about business data but also personal data. Every year, I encounter people who fail to back up their smartphones or home computers and are panicked at the thought of losing years’ worth of digital photos. The solution is simple and inexpensive: use Google, Apple, or other cloud solutions to back up your data. Once set up, backups can run automatically—no hassle, just peace of mind.
- Keep Your Software Updated
Ensure your computer stays up-to-date with Microsoft and other software updates. Updated systems run more smoothly, experience fewer problems, and are more secure. Set updates to run automatically and forget about them. - Upgrade Your Hardware When It Makes Sense
I always tell people to upgrade only when it makes sense. Today’s computers are far more powerful than most users need, which means they can last longer. That said, older computers often have slower processors, hard drives, and memory, all of which contribute to sluggish performance. After about three years, you might notice some speed changes, but it’s usually minor. By year five, it might be time to upgrade, not just for speed, but also because older hardware has a higher chance of failure.
Conclusion: New Year’s Resolutions Can Be a Solid Plan
Technology doesn’t improve because we make resolutions. It improves because we make intentional choices. Every little step you take now builds a stronger security posture for your team and your business.
Here’s to 2026 with fewer surprises and smart business decisions! Be Security Smart!
