In the IT world, things can go very wrong, and sometimes mistakes are unavoidable. What's more, little problems can often become big problems because of plain, old, dumb mistakes. TechRepublic.com has compiled a list of the most common dumb things IT pros do that can mess up their networks.

No. 1: Don't have a comprehensive backup and disaster recovery plan. It's a simple matter, but apparently many overworked administrators see backups, or at least an updated backup strategy, as a waste of time and effort until it is needed; dumb mistake.

No. 2: Ignoring warning signs like having to constantly reboot a mail server or sidestepping complaints from staff that their Web connectivity mysteriously drops for a few minutes and then comes back.

No. 3: Not documenting changes to the server's configuration settings. "You'll be glad you did if a physical disaster destroys the machine or the operating system fails and you have to start over from scratch.'' notes TechRepublic.

There are other stupid things IT pros do that can make a complete mess, like rushing through the installation of critical updates, or thinking they are saving time and money by putting off upgrades, such as security measures. And of course, there is the problem of trying to please all people all of the time, and, conversely, not trying to please anyone at any time.

For more on avoiding dumb mistakes:
- check out this TechRepublic.com article

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