Launching a startup in Westlands is exciting—but it also comes with a long checklist of things to figure out fast. From finding an office near Westgate or Sarit Centre to building your first client base, everything moves quickly. One thing that often gets overlooked? ICT support.
At Kanatech Systems, we’ve helped startups across Westlands—whether based in shared workspaces like Regus at La Réserve, or in standalone offices near Muthangari Drive—set up smart, reliable tech foundations. If you’re starting up in 2025, here’s your essential ICT support checklist to stay productive, secure, and scalable from day one.
1. Reliable Internet Connection
Westlands has a range of internet service providers, but not all deliver consistent performance. You’ll want high-speed fiber (20Mbps minimum) with low latency—especially if you’re running cloud-based tools or hosting remote meetings.
Our Tip:
Install a backup internet line (e.g., Safaricom Fiber + Faiba) to ensure business continuity.
Bonus: We recently helped a fintech startup near Le’Mac Towers integrate a dual-WAN router that automatically switches networks during downtime.
2. Structured Network Setup (Wi-Fi + LAN)
Your Wi-Fi might work fine with 2 laptops, but what happens when you grow to 10+ devices, printers, and smart tools?
A startup office—especially one in a co-working building—needs a secure and structured network with:
-
Separate guest and internal Wi-Fi
-
Firewalled routers
-
Wired LAN for key workstations
-
VLANs if handling sensitive data
We’ve seen performance double for a startup at The Mirage simply by upgrading their router and cabling.
3. Workstation Setup & IT Inventory Management
You’ll need a mix of:
-
Laptops/desktops with the right specs
-
Monitors, docking stations, and UPS units
-
Asset tracking (who uses what, and where)
At Kanatech, we help startups choose future-ready hardware and maintain an asset register. This is especially useful for teams working partially remotely from areas like Lavington or Kilimani.
4. Basic Cybersecurity Setup
Even startups are targets for cyberattacks. Phishing, ransomware, and data leaks can cripple a small team. Here’s your basic cybersecurity starter kit:
-
Antivirus or endpoint protection
-
Secure email (Google Workspace or Microsoft 365)
-
Strong password policy & 2FA
-
Regular backups
-
A firewall (either hardware or cloud-based)
We recently helped a 5-person legal startup on Rhapta Road recover from a phishing scam that nearly cost them a client. Prevention is cheaper than recovery.
5. Data Backup & Recovery Strategy
Startups often ignore backups until it’s too late. Whether it’s financial records or project files, you need both local and cloud backups—ideally daily, and automated.
What we recommend:
-
Cloud backup via OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox Business
-
Local backup on encrypted external drives
-
A plan for restoring data fast if disaster strikes
We helped an e-commerce startup in Westlands Mall restore an entire website after a plugin crash—because they had our backup system in place.
6. Email & Collaboration Tools
Don’t settle for generic emails. Branded email (e.g., you@yourstartup.co.ke) boosts credibility. Add collaboration tools like:
-
Google Workspace or Microsoft 365
-
Slack, Teams, or Zoom
-
Shared calendars and task managers like Trello or Asana
Pro Tip:
We offer quick setup for branded email + shared drive + calendar in one package.
7. IT Support & Maintenance Plan
As a startup, you don’t need a full-time IT staff. But you do need access to on-demand support for:
-
Troubleshooting
-
Software installs
-
Network issues
-
Device malfunctions
At Kanatech, we offer flexible support packages that grow with your startup. One tech startup near The Oval started with just 3 devices under support—now they’re 20+ strong.
8. Scalability Planning
Always plan for growth. Can your current infrastructure handle 5x the users? What if you open a second branch or go remote-first?
We help startups design scalable tech setups—cloud-first, flexible, and budget-friendly.
9. Compliance & Data Protection (If Needed)
Depending on your industry (e.g., legal, finance, healthcare), you may need to follow data protection laws. We advise startups on:
-
Kenya’s Data Protection Act
-
Secure data storage
-
Access control protocols
If you’re handling sensitive client info—especially around Westlands’ legal and financial districts—you’ll want to be compliant from day one.
9. Compliance & Data Protection (If Needed)
Depending on your industry (e.g., legal, finance, healthcare), you may need to follow data protection laws. We advise startups on:
-
Kenya’s Data Protection Act
-
Secure data storage
-
Access control protocols
If you’re handling sensitive client info—especially around Westlands’ legal and financial districts—you’ll want to be compliant from day one.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re setting up shop at Soin Arcade, co-working at Ikigai Westlands, or just starting from your apartment off Waiyaki Way, ICT should never be an afterthought.
Startups that invest in the right ICT foundation avoid downtime, save costs, and scale faster.
At Kanatech Systems, we’re here to help your Westlands startup get the support it needs—without the overhead.
Ready to check off your ICT essentials?
Let’s set up a consultation and site audit.
Visit www.kanatechsys.co.ke or call us today.