Free IT Guides and Tools
Easy-to-understand articles, practical tips and trusted IT tools — all in one place.
Simple Free IT Guides and Tools Tips to Enhance Your Business
How would you stop AI in an emergency?
Beware these “alerts” from Microsoft Azure
Windows 11’s new focus on efficiency
Is data security your top priority?
Teams update: No more accidental quitting
Is this the top productivity app in Windows 11?
See All Free IT Guides and Tools
by Pitch Partners 
How would you stop AI in an emergency?
by Pitch Partners 
Beware these “alerts” from Microsoft Azure
by Pitch Partners 
Windows 11’s new focus on efficiency
by Pitch Partners 
Is data security your top priority?
by Pitch Partners 
Teams update: No more accidental quitting
by Pitch Partners 
Is this the top productivity app in Windows 11?
Quick Answers to Common Tech Problems
If something isn’t working as it should, have a look through our answers to common tech problems. These easy to follow guides will help you solve the most common IT problems small businesses face every day.
Common Questions
Why is my internet so slow today?
Slow internet is usually caused by either your broadband provider, a poor Wi-Fi signal, or too many devices using the network. Check your speed using FAST.com. If your speed looks normal, try restarting your router.
Why does Microsoft Teams keep freezing or dropping calls?
This often happens when your connection is unstable. Check if Microsoft has an outage at status.office.com, and make sure you’re close to your Wi-Fi router.
Why can’t I send or receive emails in Outlook?
Outlook problems are usually caused by a full mailbox, a sync issue, or a Microsoft service outage. Restart Outlook and check the Microsoft 365 Status page.
Why won’t my printer connect to the network?
Printers disconnect when they lose their IP address or Wi-Fi signal. Restart the printer and make sure it’s on the same network as your computer.
Why is my computer running so slowly?
A slow computer is normally caused by low storage, too many apps running, or missing updates. Restart your device and check for Windows updates.
How can I check if Microsoft 365 is down?
Visit the public Microsoft status page at status.office.com. If Teams, Outlook or SharePoint are having issues, it will show there.
Why is OneDrive not syncing my files?
OneDrive stops syncing when your storage is full, your device is offline, or you’re not logged in. Click the OneDrive icon and check for any warning messages..
What should I do if I think I’ve clicked a phishing link?
Disconnect your device from the internet and change your password immediately. Then tell your IT support team straight away so they can check for risks.
How do I check if my password is strong enough?
Use the Password Strength tool at howsecureismypassword.net. A strong password should be at least 8 characters long and include letters, numbers, and symbols.
How do I know if my email has been hacked?
Go to haveibeenpwned.com and check your email address. If it shows up in a breach, change your password and turn on MFA.
Why does my Wi-Fi keep dropping in certain areas of the office?
This happens when the signal is weak or there are thick walls in the way. Try moving closer to the router or using a Wi-Fi extender.
Should I restart my computer when something isn’t working?
Yes — restarting fixes many common issues, including software freezes, connection problems, and update errors.
Why can’t I join online meetings?
This is often caused by blocked camera/microphone permissions, a slow connection, or a Teams/Zoom outage. Restart your browser or app and check your internet speed.
What is MFA and why do I need it?
MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) adds an extra security step when you log in. It protects your accounts even if someone knows your password.
Cyber Essentials Questions
What is Cyber Essentials and why does my business need it?
Cyber Essentials is a government-backed scheme that protects your business from common cyber threats. Many organisations now require it before working with you.
How long does Cyber Essentials certification take?
Most small businesses complete it within 1–3 weeks depending on how prepared they are.
What are the main reasons businesses fail Cyber Essentials?
Expired antivirus, weak passwords, old devices, missing updates, and unsecured admin accounts are the top causes.
Do we need Cyber Essentials Plus or just the basic level?
Cyber Essentials covers the basics. Cyber Essentials Plus adds a hands-on technical audit for higher assurance.
What information do we need to get certified?
You’ll need details on devices, users, passwords, antivirus, firewalls and update policies.
Microsoft 365 Questions
Why won’t Outlook open or keeps crashing?
Outlook may need an update, your profile may be corrupt, or your mailbox may be full. Restart the app and install pending updates.
Why is Teams not loading messages or files?
Teams uses cached data that sometimes becomes corrupt. Restart Teams fully or clear the cache.
Why can’t I sign in to Microsoft 365?
This happens when your password has expired, MFA isn’t completed, or your licence has expired.
Why isn’t SharePoint letting me open or edit files?
Your permissions may have changed or the file is locked by someone else. Try opening it in the browser instead of the desktop app.
Why won’t OneDrive stop showing ‘Sync Pending’?
Large files or poor internet cause sync delays. Check available storage and ensure you are online.
Security Questions
How do I know an email is a phishing attempt?
Check the sender address, spelling mistakes, and unexpected links.
If unsure, don’t click anything.
Should we use antivirus or endpoint protection?
SMEs should use modern endpoint protection as it’s stronger and stops advanced threats in real time.
Do we really need MFA for all staff?
Yes. Most attacks succeed because of weak or stolen passwords.
MFA blocks over 99% of account breaches.
How often should we change our passwords?
Whenever a compromise is suspected — not on a fixed schedule.
Long, unique passwords + MFA = best security.
What is ransomware and how do we prevent it?
Ransomware encrypts your data and demands payment. Use backups, endpoint protection, MFA, and train staff to spot phishing emails.
Device Questions
Why is my laptop overheating?
Too many apps, dust in the vents or poor airflow can cause overheating.
Restart and ensure the vents aren’t blocked.
Why won’t my laptop connect to Wi-Fi?
You may be on airplane mode, have a driver issue or be too far from the router.
Restart Wi-Fi and reconnect.
Why does my computer take so long to start up?
Start-up apps and old hard drives slow down boot times.
Disable unused start-up apps or upgrade to SSD.
Why won’t my USB device connect?
The port may be damaged, the device may need drivers, or Windows hasn’t recognised it.
Try another port or restart the device.
Why does my screen look blurry?
Screen resolution or scaling may be incorrect. Adjust it in Display Settings.
