Winter weather can bring more than snow—it can also bring business operations to a halt. For companies that rely on digital infrastructure, a snowstorm isn’t just a weather event; it’s a test of resilience. Preparing your IT systems to remain functional during a snowstorm ensures employees can stay productive and secure while working remotely. This article covers the best practices to make your IT infrastructure “Snowstorm-Proof IT,” protecting your business from downtime and potential cybersecurity risks.

Steps to Snowstorm-proof your Business

1. Prioritize a Secure and Accessible Remote Work Environment

When snowstorms trap employees at home, remote work becomes the only viable option. Setting up a secure and reliable remote work system is critical to maintain productivity.

• Implement a VPN for Secure Connections: Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) encrypt data and allow employees to securely access company resources from home. A VPN adds a crucial layer of protection, especially when workers rely on potentially unsecured home networks.
• Invest in Cloud-Based Solutions: Cloud platforms ensure that employees can access files and applications without being tied to on-site servers. Services like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 provide collaborative tools that keep teams connected.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adding MFA to remote access systems protects against unauthorized access, which is especially important when remote work becomes widespread during weather events.

Reference: Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).

2. Maintain Strong Communication Channels

Clear communication is the backbone of productivity during a snowstorm. IT systems should support uninterrupted communication, regardless of the physical location of employees.

• Leverage Unified Communication Platforms: Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom enable employees to communicate in real-time. These platforms integrate messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing, reducing the friction of remote collaboration.
• Provide IT Support for Remote Employees: During a snowstorm, employees might encounter issues such as connectivity problems or accessing secure portals. Having IT support available to resolve these issues quickly can prevent disruptions.
• Establish Emergency Protocols: Create an emergency communication plan to inform employees about system outages or changes in company operations.

3. Strengthen IT Infrastructure Against Weather-Induced Disruptions

Snowstorms can cause power outages and internet disruptions that affect your IT systems. Proactive measures can help minimize the risk of downtime.

• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Install UPS systems to protect critical hardware like servers and routers. These devices provide backup power to prevent data loss during outages.
• Redundant Internet Connections: Equip your business with a secondary internet service provider (ISP) to maintain connectivity if the primary connection fails.
• Regular Backups: Schedule automated backups of important data to off-site or cloud-based locations. This step protects your information against loss from power failures or hardware damage.

4. Focus on Cybersecurity During Snowstorms

Cybercriminals often exploit weather emergencies to launch phishing attacks or ransomware campaigns, knowing employees might be distracted. Strengthening your cybersecurity posture is vital.

• Train Employees to Recognize Threats: Educate your workforce on common phishing tactics and scams that spike during emergencies.
• Deploy Endpoint Security Solutions: Use antivirus software and firewalls to protect devices used by remote employees.
• Monitor Network Activity: Implement tools that detect unusual behavior on your network, allowing your IT team to respond to threats swiftly.

Reference: National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

5. Prepare an IT Disaster Recovery Plan

Every business needs a disaster recovery plan tailored to weather-related disruptions. Such a plan outlines the steps to recover IT systems and resume normal operations.

• Document Key Processes: Identify the most critical IT functions and document procedures for restoring them in the event of failure.
• Test Your Plan Regularly: Conduct mock scenarios to test your disaster recovery plan and identify gaps before an actual snowstorm hits.
• Designate a Recovery Team: Assign specific roles to team members for executing the recovery plan, ensuring accountability and efficiency.

6. Equip Employees With the Right Tools

Providing employees with reliable tools for remote work helps maintain their productivity during a snowstorm.

• Laptops and Mobile Devices: Equip employees with company-issued devices preloaded with necessary software and security protocols.
• Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots: Provide hotspots to employees in areas prone to internet outages.
• Ergonomic Workstations: Encourage employees to set up home workstations that support productivity and comfort.

7. Collaborate With an IT Managed Services Provider

For businesses without in-house IT resources, partnering with a Managed Services Provider (MSP) can make a significant difference. MSPs offer continuous monitoring, support, and proactive solutions to keep IT systems operational during adverse weather.

• 24/7 Monitoring: MSPs provide round-the-clock oversight, identifying and resolving issues before they escalate.
• Proactive Maintenance: Regular updates and maintenance reduce vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure.
• Scalability: MSPs can quickly adapt to changing needs, such as increased remote work demands during a snowstorm.

8. Emphasize Employee Training and Awareness

A well-prepared workforce is just as important as robust IT systems. Employees should understand how to use remote work tools and follow cybersecurity best practices.

• Host Virtual Training Sessions: Teach employees how to navigate remote work platforms, troubleshoot basic IT issues, and identify security risks.
• Create User Guides: Provide step-by-step guides for accessing company resources remotely and safely.
• Encourage Open Communication: Allow employees to report IT or security issues without hesitation, ensuring timely resolutions.

Conclusion for Snowstorm-Proof IT

A snowstorm doesn’t have to disrupt your business operations. By adopting these strategies, your IT systems can remain operational and secure, empowering employees to work productively from home. From implementing VPNs and cloud solutions to partnering with an MSP and strengthening your cybersecurity defenses, a proactive approach keeps your business running smoothly—no matter the weather.

With a Snowstorm-Proof IT strategy, you can face winter weather confidently, knowing your business is prepared for whatever comes next.