As 2025 comes to an end, many Australian businesses are reviewing their systems and preparing for a more productive and secure 2026. Technology has become the backbone of operations for every industry, from retail and hospitality to healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and corporate offices. But even with this reliance, countless businesses continue to operate with outdated cabling, aging security systems, unreliable Wi-Fi, and phone systems that no longer meet modern customer expectations.
The result is hidden downtime, slow productivity, security gaps, and unexpected costs throughout the year.
If you want your business to start 2026 strong, now is the ideal time to evaluate your technology. In this guide, we break down the most important upgrades Australian companies are focusing on to improve performance, efficiency, and security.
Why Review Your Technology Before 2026?
Over the past few years, businesses have become more dependent on cloud apps, remote access, online payments, digital communications, and smart security systems. Technology that worked five or ten years ago may no longer offer the reliability or speed needed for modern operations.
Here’s why business owners and IT managers are reviewing their technology now rather than waiting until problems appear:
- Prevent downtime before peak trading periods
- Improve productivity and workflow efficiency
- Strengthen on-site and digital security
- Reduce system failures and maintenance costs
- Support hybrid work and remote access
- Improve customer experience and communication
- Prepare for planned upgrades and expansions in 2026
The end of the year is the perfect time to identify weak points and plan upgrades for the year ahead.
1. Network Cabling and Connectivity Upgrades
Your network is the foundation of your entire business. If the cabling behind your walls is old, damaged, or outdated, it can slow down every system you rely on. Many Australian companies still operate with Cat5 or old copper cabling that cannot support modern traffic and cloud systems.
Signs your cabling needs upgrading
- Slow internet speeds
- Dropped video calls
- POS delays
- Unstable WiFi
- Frequent network outages
- Poor office connectivity
Common upgrades businesses are investing in
- Cat6 or Cat6A cabling
- Fibre-optic cabling for high-demand environments
- New patch panels and tidy-ups
- Server room clean-ups and reorganisation
- Improved network switching
These upgrades create immediate improvements in speed, reliability, and staff productivity.
2. CCTV and Security System Improvements
Security requirements have changed significantly. Older CCTV systems often have poor clarity, limited storage, outdated night vision, and no remote viewing options.
Businesses are upgrading because modern systems offer:
- HD and 4K clarity
- Remote mobile access
- Smart alerts and analytics
- Better low-light vision
- Tamper detection
- On-site and cloud storage
- Integrations with access control
Modern CCTV also supports insurance compliance and helps reduce risks such as theft, break-ins, and workplace incidents.
3. Phone System and Communication Upgrades
Traditional phone systems are becoming harder to maintain, and many no longer support the features businesses need. Poor call quality and missed calls can cost sales and harm customer experience.
Businesses preparing for 2026 are upgrading to:
- VoIP phone systems
- Cloud PBX
- Unified communications platforms
- Softphone options for remote teams
- Auto-attendants and call routing
- Multi-site integration
These systems improve reliability and make customer communication smoother and more efficient.
4. Commercial WiFi and Office Connectivity
WiFi issues are some of the most common problems businesses face. Slow loading times, dead zones, and constant dropouts slow down productivity and frustrate both staff and customers.
Companies are now installing:
- Commercial-grade access points
- Whole-site WiFi coverage
- Guest WiFi networks
- High-density solutions for retail and public spaces
- Better network controllers and monitoring
A reliable WiFi setup is crucial for offices, warehouses, shops, schools, and hospitality venues.
5. Access Control and Security Integration
Access control is no longer just about convenience. It is an essential security measure that provides detailed records of who enters which areas and when.
Businesses upgrading in 2026 are moving to:
- Card and fob systems
- Keyless entry
- Intercom system upgrades
- Door security enhancements
- Centralised access management
- CCTV–access control integration
These systems improve safety, streamline staff access, and reduce security risks across the property.
6. POS and Retail Technology Support
In retail and hospitality, technology impacts sales directly. Outdated cabling, failing POS systems, and network issues lead to lost transactions and frustrated customers.
Upgrades include:
- New POS terminals
- Faster cabling
- Improved WiFi
- Secure payment network setups
- Reliable connectivity
- System monitoring
A modern setup keeps queues moving and improves customer experience.
7. Server Room and On-Site Equipment Clean-Ups
Many server rooms and comms cabinets still have:
- Dust buildup
- Poor ventilation
- Messy wiring
- Outdated hardware
- Faulty switches
- Overloaded power boards
A tidy, updated server room improves reliability and reduces the risk of a costly equipment failure.
Why Businesses Choose Fixtel for Their 2026 Upgrades
Fixtel provides trusted, Australia-wide technology solutions for small businesses, large organisations, and national multi-site networks. Our experienced technicians support everything from single-site upgrades to large-scale rollouts.
We deliver:
- Network cabling
- CCTV and security systems
- Phone system upgrades
- Commercial WiFi installation
- Access control
- Retail and POS support
- Server room improvements
- Video conferencing setups
- On-site IT assistance
With fast response times, national coverage, and a focus on reliability, Fixtel helps businesses operate smoothly and confidently.
Preparing Your Business for 2026 Starts Now
Technology issues often appear at the worst times. Reviewing your systems before the new year begins helps prevent downtime, improve security, and ensure your operations are ready for growth.
If you are planning upgrades or want advice on improving your business technology in 2026, Fixtel is here to help.
Contact Fixtel today to discuss your business needs and plan your next steps.
