Tech Essentials for the Home Office

As technology continues to grow more advanced and more integrated into everyday life, the workplace has transformed. Now, workers can get just as much of their workload done at home as they can in the office. This has led to huge increases in the number of remote workers who never again have to worry about the daily commute. However, making sure that you have the office setup at home that ensures productivity and smooth workflow is essential. In the modern age, that means having the right focus on technology. If you’re about to launch a new business from your spare bedroom or you’ve been offered the option of remote working, here are some tech essentials that your home office needs.

1. Workstation

Your most basic essential is going to be a PC or laptop. This is going to be where you spend the most time, so make sure that you get yourself a computer that does all that you need it to do. Don’t opt for a Chromebook if you need to download specific software, and don’t get a Mac if it’s not compatible with your head office. Choose your home computer options wisely.

2. Printer

Even the most paperless office will need to print out something occasionally. Don’t assume that you’ll only ever be using the Cloud to share documents. Have a printer available and make sure that your printer ink can be ordered quickly whenever you are low.

Top Tip: Get a printer that also acts as a scanner.

3. Router

This is going to be your link to the outside world, so don’t just buy the first router that you see. Always do your research and have an idea of what kinds of demands you’ll be putting on your internet connection. Check download and upload speeds and your workflow will be much more proactive.

4. Smart Stuff

With more people using smart speakers and voice search internet queries than ever before, it’s a good idea to get your own smart hub in your home office. Even if you only use it for calendar reminders or as a speaker for background music, they can be a great finishing touch to any home office setup.

5. Smartphone

This isn’t about making sure that you always have your personal phone with you. Instead, you want to have a phone that is solely for work. This will make it easier to prioritize paying attention to notifications and makes it easier to switch off from work mode at the end of the day.

6. Security

Online security is going to be essential, so you need firewalls in place and constant updates about the latest online scams. However, don’t limit your thinking about security to online only. Your real-world security is going to need to be top-notch as well. Nothing will interrupt your productivity quite as much as having your tech stolen, so make sure that you protect your gadgets and tech essentials with a good insurance policy from providers like Insurance Geek. You can be as protected as possible against cybercriminals, but if a burglar breaks in then you could be out of pocket and unable to work before you know it.

Technology for the home office needs to be fit for purpose. Take your time to get the foundations of your home office right and to keep it protected from threats. The more that you plan your home office the more you’ll be able to get straight to work every day. Plan right, and you might never want to leave the house again.