Most businesses already have some kind of IT support. It might be a tech-savvy member of staff who steps in when emails stop working, or an external provider who helps when the printer refuses to cooperate. That’s IT support.

But IT security? That’s something very different — and it’s often assumed to be included when, in reality, it’s not.

Understanding the difference (and making sure you have both) is crucial if you want your business to stay productive and protected.

What Is IT Support?

IT support is what most people picture when they think about “computer help.” It’s all about keeping your systems running smoothly and fixing problems when they arise.

Typical IT support includes:

  • Setting up new devices and user accounts
  • Installing software and updates
  • Troubleshooting issues like frozen programs or login problems
  • Replacing faulty hardware
  • Helping staff with day-to-day questions

In short: IT support keeps the wheels turning.

If your laptop is slow, your email won’t load, or the printer jams, IT support is who you call.

But while this is important, it doesn’t mean your business is secure.

What Is IT Security?

IT security is about protection — defending your business from threats both inside and outside.

This involves:

  • Firewalls, antivirus, and endpoint protection
  • Proactive monitoring for unusual or suspicious activity
  • Data backups and tested recovery plans
  • Regular patching to fix vulnerabilities
  • Meeting compliance requirements (GDPR, Cyber Essentials, sector-specific regulations)
  • Training staff to spot scams and phishing emails
  • Monitoring the dark web for stolen company data or credentials
  • Responding quickly to potential breaches

While IT support reacts when something breaks, IT security prevents things from breaking in the first place — especially through cyber attacks or costly mistakes.

Don’t Assume Support = Security

Here’s where many businesses get caught out.

They assume that because they “have IT covered,” they must also have security covered. But unless your IT provider is actively managing cyber risks, monitoring for threats, and implementing security policies, you could be far less protected than you think.

And relying on a helpful staff member who’s “good with computers”? Great for setting up a laptop, but not enough when it comes to business-grade protection. Security requires specialist expertise, the right tools, and constant vigilance.

IT Security Is Always Moving

The cyber landscape changes daily. New scams, fresh vulnerabilities, and evolving ransomware tactics mean that what was secure last year isn’t necessarily secure today.

Without a clear IT security strategy, your business is relying on luck. And that’s a dangerous gamble when your data, your reputation, and your clients’ trust are on the line.

Who Should Handle IT Security?

That’s where we step in.

At Hilt Digital Solutions, we provide both IT support and IT security to businesses across Wirral, Liverpool, Chester, and the wider North West. That means you don’t have to choose one or the other.

Our security-first approach includes:

  • Enterprise-grade firewalls and endpoint protection
  • 24/7 monitoring and proactive reporting
  • Industry compliance support (including Cyber Essentials)
  • Security awareness training for your staff
  • Dark web monitoring to detect stolen data before it’s abused
  • Rapid response if an incident occurs

We don’t treat IT security as a one-off project — it’s an ongoing process that protects your business every day.

Peace of Mind Comes from Knowing, Not Hoping

IT support keeps you running. IT security keeps you safe. Without both, your business is exposed to risks you might not even see coming.

At Hilt Digital, we help North West businesses remove the guesswork and get both sides right.

👉 [Talk to us today about securing and supporting your business IT]