As the end of the year approaches, small business owners in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley are beginning to plan for 2026. One of the most important (yet often overlooked) components of any operations budget is technology — specifically, your IT budget.
Whether you’re a growing local business or a lean startup, your IT infrastructure plays a critical role in day-to-day operations, security, and scalability. In this blog, ARCCOMP walks you through the key items every small business should include in their 2026 IT budget — and how to plan smartly to avoid surprises and unnecessary expenses.
Without a clear IT budget:
Emergency costs skyrocket
Security gaps are left open
Upgrades get delayed until there’s a failure
Growth stalls due to outdated systems
A well-thought-out IT budget ensures business continuity, security, and smart growth — while making costs predictable.
Most desktops, laptops, and networking devices have a 3–5 year lifecycle. Don’t wait until something breaks.
Include in your budget:
Computers and laptops for new hires
Replacement plans for aging workstations
Servers, routers, and firewalls nearing end of life
Monitors, accessories, and backup hardware
👉 Tip: ARCCOMP offers lifecycle management so you know what needs replacing — and when.
Outdated software can cause compatibility issues and security risks. Budget for:
Microsoft 365 licenses (email, Office apps, Teams)
Antivirus and endpoint security
Line-of-business apps (CRM, POS, accounting software)
Cloud platforms and SaaS subscriptions
Be sure to include renewal costs and annual increases.
Cyber threats aren’t going away in 2026 — in fact, they’re getting smarter. Include room in your budget for:
Endpoint protection
Email threat protection
Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Employee security training
Firewall and DNS filtering tools
✅ ARCCOMP offers bundled cybersecurity packages for small businesses that combine tools and support at a predictable monthly rate.
If your data isn’t backed up, it’s vulnerable. Budget for:
Cloud-based backup services
On-premises storage (if needed)
Disaster recovery planning
Backup testing and validation
💡 ARCCOMP’s backup services include both local and cloud recovery options, with built-in redundancy.
Many businesses are now cloud-first. If you’re running websites, apps, or servers in the cloud, include:
Website hosting (especially with security add-ons)
Cloud server storage and bandwidth
File sharing (e.g., SharePoint, Google Drive)
Web applications and SaaS fees
🚀 We help clients optimize their cloud resources — and often save by reducing unused services.
If you work with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) like ARCCOMP, include your monthly service contract as a fixed cost in your IT budget.
What’s covered:
Remote and on-site support
24/7 monitoring
Routine maintenance
Patch management
Strategic IT planning
Having this in place helps prevent unplanned expenses when issues arise.
Don’t forget your web presence. Budget for:
SSL renewals
Plugin and theme updates
SEO improvements
Design refreshes or rebuilds
Ongoing content or development support
🌐 Your website is often the first impression for clients — and ARCCOMP ensures it’s secure, fast, and up-to-date.
Think ahead. Are you:
Opening a new location?
Hiring more staff?
Switching CRMs?
Implementing VoIP?
Upgrading to cloud-based file sharing?
Include these in a “Projects” category of your budget with ballpark timelines and vendor quotes.
Technology is only effective if your team uses it well. Consider allocating funds for:
Onboarding IT training
Cybersecurity awareness
Software transition support
Process documentation
💬 We provide simple, jargon-free training for teams so they feel confident using new tools.
IT is no longer a “nice-to-have” — it’s a core part of running a secure, productive, and modern business. A smart IT budget helps you avoid surprises, reduce emergency costs, and plan for growth with confidence.
At ARCCOMP, we work directly with business owners in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley to create realistic and strategic IT budgets based on goals, risk tolerance, and long-term planning.
Need help building your 2026 IT roadmap? Contact ARCCOMP at https://arccomp.com to schedule a no-cost budget review.
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