5 IT Mistakes Manufacturers Can’t Afford to Make

In manufacturing, downtime isn’t just annoying—it’s expensive. One hour of halted production can cost thousands, delay shipments, and damage customer relationships. And too often, it’s not a machine that fails, it’s the IT behind it.

Here are five IT mistakes manufacturers can’t afford to make and how to avoid them.

1. No Backup or Disaster Recovery Plan

If your systems go down due to ransomware, server failure, or a natural disaster, how quickly could you bounce back? If your answer is, “I’m not sure,” that’s a big risk.

Manufacturers need reliable backups and a tested disaster recovery plan. According to IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report, the average recovery cost is over $4 million, and that includes operational downtime. Don’t let your floor go quiet while your data scrambles to recover.

2. Running Outdated Software on Critical Systems

Old software isn’t just slow, it’s vulnerable. When ERP systems, SCADA platforms, or even accounting tools go unpatched, they become easy targets for hackers.

Keep your systems current with regular updates and patch management. A single unpatched flaw can open the door to cybercriminals looking to shut down operations or steal valuable production data.

3. Weak Network Security in Connected Environments

Today’s manufacturing tech is more connected than ever. IoT sensors, remote monitoring, cloud platforms, and mobile apps offer real advantages. But with that convenience comes risk.

Without proper network segmentation, firewalls, and endpoint protection, a single compromised device can spread malware across your entire environment. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recommends segmenting networks and implementing zero trust strategies to reduce exposure.

4. No Real-Time IT Monitoring

Downtime rarely gives warning. But with 24/7 monitoring, small issues can be spotted before they snowball.

A Managed IT provider can track system health, flag errors, and even resolve problems remotely before your line grinds to a halt. It’s the difference between being proactive and being blindsided.

5. Neglecting User Training and Access Controls

Most cyberattacks start with a simple mistake like an employee clicking a fake email or using a weak password.

Make cybersecurity part of your safety culture. Train your team, enforce strong login policies, and limit system access based on job roles. These steps cost very little but make a huge impact.

Don’t Let IT Slow Down Your Production Line

Manufacturing success depends on uptime, precision, and reliability. Your IT should match that standard. Avoiding these five mistakes can save you from costly outages and give you peace of mind that your operations are secure.

Want a second set of eyes on your IT setup? LeadingIT helps manufacturers across Chicagoland stay up, running, and protected.

Let’s schedule a free IT risk assessment.

Because in your world, downtime isn’t just inconvenient. It’s unacceptable. Let’s help you avoid it.