Remote work isn’t new—but for many small and mid-sized businesses in Newcastle, it’s become a permanent part of how teams operate. Whether you’ve got staff working from home a few days a week or entirely offsite, having the right tools and habits in place makes a big difference.
At Trustpoint, we work closely with local businesses to make remote work easier, safer, and more productive. Here’s what we recommend if you want to get the most out of your setup.
Start with Secure, Reliable Tools
The foundation of any remote setup is having tools that your team can rely on every day. That includes:
1. Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace
Both give your team access to email, calendars, file storage and real-time collaboration. Most businesses around Newcastle already use one of these—but many don’t take advantage of everything they offer.
2. A secure cloud storage solution
Shared drives like SharePoint, OneDrive or Google Drive help keep files accessible without risking version control or lost documents.
3. Video conferencing and chat apps
Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Slack are popular, but what matters is choosing one and sticking with it so communication stays centralised.
4. VPN or secure remote access
If staff need to connect to onsite systems or databases, remote desktop access must be locked down properly—no shortcuts.
Prioritise Cybersecurity (Even at Home)
Remote work can introduce security gaps—especially if staff are using personal devices, home Wi-Fi, or weak passwords.
Here’s what we advise for Newcastle businesses:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on all accounts
- Device-level security: antivirus, updates, and encryption
- User permissions: only give access to what’s needed
- Regular backups: stored securely offsite or in the cloud
- Staff training: your team is your first line of defence against phishing, scams, and ransomware
We offer cybersecurity assessments that help local SMBs identify risks they might not even know exist.
Set Expectations and Keep It Simple
Many remote work issues aren’t about technology—they’re about habits.
- Use shared calendars to manage availability
- Have clear policies around working hours and communication
- Schedule regular check-ins (not just when there’s a problem)
- Standardise tools and logins to avoid confusion
Consistency helps people work better, feel supported, and stay connected—whether they’re in the office or on the couch.
Support Matters More Than Ever
When something breaks or slows down, remote teams can’t just tap the shoulder of someone in IT. That’s why having a managed IT partner who understands your systems—and is available when you need them—is more critical than ever.
We support businesses across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and the Hunter with helpdesk support, device management, and proactive monitoring. We don’t just fix problems—we help you avoid them in the first place.
Final Thoughts
Remote work doesn’t have to be risky or frustrating. With the right tools, secure systems, and local support, your business can become more flexible and resilient.
If you’re unsure where your setup stands—or know it needs an update—Trustpoint Technology is here to help. We’re a Newcastle-based team with years of experience supporting SMBs with managed IT and digital security.
📞 Ready to review your remote work systems? Get in touch with us for a chat or an onsite visit.