In the modern workplace, your IT setup is more than just a collection of devices, it’s the engine that drives your operations. Yet, many businesses continue to rely on aging computers and outdated systems that quietly drain productivity, increase risk, and frustrate staff. The truth is, knowing when to upgrade your business tech is just Read More
How to look after your IT hardware in the heat
As temperatures rise, it’s not just people who start to feel the heat — your IT hardware does too. Computers, servers, and other electronics are sensitive to extreme temperatures, and a heatwave can spell disaster if precautions aren’t taken. Whether you’re working from a home office or managing tech for a small business, here’s how Read More
7 critical signs your business has outgrown its IT setup — and what to do about it
In today’s digital-first world, your business’s IT infrastructure isn’t just a support system — it’s a growth engine. But as your company scales, what once worked smoothly can start to slow you down, expose you to risks, and limit your potential. Recognising when your IT setup has been outgrown is essential for staying competitive and Read More
The hidden costs of not having professional IT support
Many businesses wouldn’t dream of operating without reliable accounting, legal advice, or insurance. Yet, when it comes to IT, some still gamble with minimal support or a “fix it when it breaks” mindset. This approach can be more costly — and risky — than it appears. From downtime and security threats to reactive spending and Read More
Why UK Festivals rent IT equipment (and why it just makes sense)
When most people think of festivals, they picture music, food trucks, glitter, and wellies — not servers, laptops, and network setups. But behind every successful UK festival is a small army of organisers, production teams, and administrators working round the clock — and they all need tech to make it happen. From backstage operations to Read More
Windows 10 Support Ends in 2025: Time to Prepare for Windows 11 with Smart Computers
Attention, Windows 10 users! The clock is ticking—on October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. What does that mean? No more security updates, no more bug fixes, and no more help if something goes wrong. Simply put, your system could become vulnerable to risks, and you’ll miss out on the latest Read More
How Smart Computers Can Help You Stay Secure Online
Let’s be honest — cyber security can feel a bit overwhelming, right? Phishing emails, ransomware, data breaches… it’s a lot to think about. But the good news? You don’t have to do it alone. At Smart Computers, as well as offering computer rentals, laptop hire and more, we’re also about helping businesses and individuals stay Read More
Tech Trends to Watch This December: Innovations, Tips, and Smart Rentals
December is a prime time for tech enthusiasts and businesses alike, with holiday shopping, year-end upgrades, and the latest innovations shaping the landscape. Here’s a look at key insights on renting tech equipment, and practical tips for the season. 1. Renting Tech: Smart Choices for Events and OfficesAs budgets tighten during the holiday season, renting Read More
Emerging Software Trends Shaping the Future of IT
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, staying ahead of software trends is crucial for businesses and consumers alike. Smart Computers is dedicated to providing innovative IT support solutions that empower our clients to thrive in a digital world. Understanding current trends in software not only helps organisations optimise their operations but also ensures that they Read More
Renting for Businesses and Self-Employed
In today’s fast-paced business landscape, flexibility and efficiency are key. One trend that’s gained significant momentum is the shift towards renting rather than owning assets. From cars and homes to mobile phones and tools, renting has become a popular choice for many individuals, self-employed and large or small businesses. Why Rent? Short-Term Laptop Rental Read More
Tech Rental Myths Debunked: The Truth About Renting Your Tech
Tech and laptop rental has become increasingly popular for businesses and individuals alike. However, there are still many misconceptions surrounding this flexible option. Let’s dispel some of the most common myths and shed light on the real benefits of tech rentals. Myth 1: Renting Tech is More Expensive Than Buying Reality: This is often not Read More
Are you still using Microsoft Outlook 2010 or even older?
If you are still using Microsoft Outlook 2010 or older, then read on. You will have received a notification that you will no longer be supported by Microsoft 365 or Office 365 services. But what does this notification mean, and what can you do to protect your systems? Last August it was announced that Outlook Read More
Windows 11 – what you need to know!
Microsoft Windows 11 was released on 24th June 2021 and started rolling out on 5th October 2021. If you own a PC, you might be wondering whether it’s time to upgrade your operating system. This upgrade will be free to everyone on Windows 10 for the first few months, after which it will need to Read More
Case study – Abacus Money Management
Abacus Money Management, based in Tewkesbury have been loyal customers of Smart Computers for over 11 years. We spoke to Noel Greaves, Director at Abacus to find out more about the relationship. Noel said: “Over the past 11 years, Smart has provided Abacus Money Management with a wealth of IT solutions, they have become an Read More
Case Study – Stanbridge Accountants
Stanbridge Accountancy is a Gloucestershire based firm of accountants. Smart Computers have been providing IT solutions to the team since 2014. Duncan Woodger, owner of Stanbridge Accountancy said: “I knew Will and Tim at Smart from a previous role, so found it the logical step to take when looking for IT solutions for my new Read More
The importance of Disaster Recovery Planning and Data back up
OVH fire On Wednesday, 10th March 2021, a huge fire occurred at European cloud computing giant, OVH, offices. The fire has destroyed one of its Strasbourg data centres and damaged another. As a precautionary measure they closed two other data centres located at the same site. Luckily, the fire didn’t injure anyone. The ‘big three’ Read More
Spotlight on Technical Director, Will Rendell
Technical Director Will Rendell shares his journey with us as Smart Computers‘ longest standing member of staff at almost 30 years in. ‘I joined Smart back in June 1998. This was two years after they began trading, when they offered purely computer rentals. This was really successful for the company at the time. I had Read More
Historic events that made 1996…
The year that Smart Computers was born was a big one for historic events. Here we take a trip down memory lane and get all nostalgic over some of the key events that changed the world in 1996. Major events that happened in the world of Information Technology in 1996 Just for fun… The Spice Read More
Tricks of the trade – 25 Top Tips
To celebrate Smart Computers’ 25th year in business this March, the team are giving you their top 25 tips that will change the way you use your computer for good! Did you know that you can delete a whole word by pressing just two keys rather than repeatedly pressing backspace? Or that there is a tool to Read More
Spotlight on Founder and Sales Director, Tim Potts
We shine our spotlight on Tim Potts, Smart Computers’ Founder and Sales Director. He shares with us his journey over the past 25 years. ‘The business started out as solely IT rentals which became very successful; doubling in size every year for three years. When Will Rendell joined in 1998, we branched out into Sales, Read More
