If anything can be taken from the rapid dissemination of the Trojan Flashback virus, it's that more and more businesses are relying on Apple products in the workplace. These aren't limited to desktops, notebooks and laptops. Recently, the iPad has transitioned from a novelty item to an industry must-have, establishing itself in offices worldwide. If you're interested in using your iPad in a business setting, TabletPCReview offers a few recommendations.

The first obstacle to using your iPad as your primary work device may be the touchscreen keyboard. This keyboard is ideal for quick on-the-go messaging, but it could be aggravating when you're tackling more complex communication at a higher volume.

You may find it beneficial to purchase a hardware keyboard for your device. It provides the communicative ease of a laptop or desktop, but is removable so your iPad can be light and portable when you need it to be. Brighthand editor Ed Hardy touts the business-specific benefit to such versatility, explaining that "to show something to a client or co-worker, you can just hand them the display without hassling with the keyboard."

If you're used to using Toshiba or Samsung laptops in the office, you may need assistance with the PC to Mac migration. Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint are not available on the iPad, so you'll need to adapt to the available alternatives. Apple offers Pages, Numbers and Keynote, all of which perform the same functions and produce files that are generally compatible with PC operating systems. Third party applications including DocumentstoGo and Quickoffice are also possibilities.

If you're intent on purchasing an iPad for business purposes, the best plan of action is to speak to a specialist about your needs. They'll inform you of the full range of custom options available so you can optimize your iPad for a professional environment.