As with all things IT, by the time they are commonplace, they’ve probably been around a while, but just haven’t been adopted by the mainstream audience (remember when Zoom was only used by those with a love of technology). Here we list three developments within IT that we feel have become standard within 2023.

Connectivity 

Starlink is now becoming commonplace for business and domestic users that demand great connectivity wherever they are. According to makers, SpaceX, Starlink is the world’s most advanced broadband satellite internet. We have installed Starlink in permanent locations, such as within the Buchannan Marquees site in King’s Somborne. Plus, Steve took Starlink for a spin in the Oxfordshire countryside over the summer when he spent some time at a folk festival (he couldn’t resist the allure of IT kit even while he listened to the soothing sounds). 

If you are suffering from connectivity issues then Starlink could be the perfect solution for you. Make 2024 the year you move into the fast lane with broadband that can keep up with your business needs (and the needs of your customers). 

Artificial Intelligence 

2023 has definitely been the year where AI tools have become far more obvious, sparking debate around the globe about creativity, safety and regulation. Some love it, some hate it, but in reality, many of us are using it to our advantage without even realising it; if you regularly say “Hi Alexa,…”, you’re embracing AI.  

Artificial Intelligence is performing a multitude of tasks in the background, many of which we’re unaware of. However, most of us will now be far more aware of its increasing presence within the workplace. For example, chatGPT has been the topic of many news items – is it quelling creativity and threatening jobs or helping us communicate more clearly and efficiently? AI has snuck into presentation software, helping us create more interesting material at pace. And most of us will have liaised effectively with a chatbot to answer our questions with precision and speed. 

Whilst there may be considerable voices objecting to the increase of AI, it goes without saying that it’s making our lives easier. On the flip side, it does present cybersecurity risks, and as always we are keeping our finger on the pulse and will keep you informed. 

Cybersecurity 

As you know we’ve been beating the drum for increased cybersecurity awareness for a number of years. Whilst cybercrime is continuing to shape shift and showing no sign of letting up, we feel that awareness of it is now becoming much more embedded within the mainstream psyche.  

Regrettably, we all know at least one person or business that has been hacked (probably most of us know way more than one). Within business circles there is now much more chatter about cybersecurity, cybercrime, prevention and insurance. As was the case with health and safety (or lack of in bygone decades), there is now an acceptance that cybercrime is not someone else’s problem and that we all need to take our share of responsibility.  

On a more positive note the FBI figures for the past year show a slight dip in UK cybercrime, although it’s still a massive problem. But the slight decline in reported incidents demonstrates that interventions, collaborations and growing awareness is having an impact. 

In May, Microsoft forced the adoption of Multi-Factor Authentication, adding a vital layer of security to their software. We are proud to say that we have insisted on MFA since 2020, recognising that if there is a way to help maintain cybersecurity then we must all do our best to adopt it. 

Want to know more? 

If you want to understand more about developments in IT over the past year, get in touch – we love learning about, and imparting our knowledge on, all things IT.  

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