Technology: Top 5 Tech Trends for Local Businesses

As we inch closer to the new year, technology experts predict 2025 will continue to see “an evolution, not a revolution” of digital trends impacting businesses. But a new year means new opportunities to future-proof your existing IT operating systems, find better efficiencies and save money. It’s also a reminder about the ongoing need for vigilance. For business owners, staying ahead of the next cybersecurity threat requires adopting and adapting to emerging technologies to protect your business and your customers.

Top 5 Emerging Tech Trends for Small to Medium-Sized Businesses

To make it easier, we’ve put together a list of essential IT services for local businesses to be aware of as well as new opportunities for improved service and support.

1. AI: Revolutionizing Business and Cybersecurity

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here to stay and increasingly part of your everyday life and that of your customers. As the technology continues to evolve, it continues to offer powerful tools for automation, customer engagement and data analysis. However, its impact is not limited to these areas; AI is increasingly pivotal in cybersecurity. It’s also increasingly used by cybercriminals, but AI-driven security solutions can monitor systems relentlessly, detect anomalies and respond to threats faster than any human counterpart. This type of 24/7 monitoring is necessary and extra security you can offer your customers. For local businesses, implementing AI in cybersecurity not only safeguards digital assets but also reassures clients about data safety, enhancing business credibility.

2. Connectivity: Ushering in a New Era with 5G, 6G, and Advanced Wi-Fi

An increasingly connected world will require businesses to think about their existing models, infrastructure and need for connectivity. Connectivity is the backbone of modern business, and with the rollout of 5G, and forthcoming 6G cellular networks, the speed and reliability of internet connections are set to explode. Meanwhile, Wi-Fi 6 and the anticipated Wi-Fi 7 will provide seamless connectivity, even in densely populated areas. For local businesses, this means investing in updated and upgraded technology and support. By leveraging these advancements, you are enhancing your business’ capabilities to support data-intensive applications and remote operations. Ultimately, you’re elevating the overall customer and workforce experience as well as operational efficiency.

3. Performance: Future-Proofing with Updated PCs

As technology advances, so does the complexity and demand on computer hardware. Updating PCs is necessary not just for ensuring compatibility with new software but also for maintaining optimal performance. According to the leading technology company Intel, “Employees can lose up to one workday each year just waiting for a computer that’s three years or older to boot up and are also likely to be less productive on older PCs.” For local businesses, investing in the latest technology can mean improved and reduced downtime. You can’t future-proof your business if you’re working with outdated hardware.

4. Embracing the Hybrid Workforce: Security, IT, and Productivity

Your business perimeter is no longer the office network. As the workplace continues to change, so will the boundaries of business networks. In a hybrid work model, where employees operate both remotely and in-office, the traditional network perimeter dissolves, posing new security and IT challenges. It’s crucial for local businesses to provide security awareness training and the right tools to ensure seamless workflow transition. Tools like Microsoft Teams, facilitated by advancements in connectivity, can enhance collaboration and maintain productivity. The need for professional IT services will play a pivotal role here, acting as crucial support partners for managing IT complexities and vendor interactions.

5. MSP Trends: The Value of Outsourcing

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are increasingly becoming a cornerstone for businesses looking to streamline IT operations and focus on core competencies. “Outsourcing to industry experts is not only cost-effective but also strategic,” adds NerdsToGo Operations Manager Gina Santiago. A growing IT services franchise brand, NerdsToGo offers comprehensive on demand IT service for local businesses. MSPs deliver specialized knowledge, resources, and the latest technological frameworks, offering local businesses a competitive edge without the overheads associated with maintaining in-house expertise.

FAQs and New Year Resolutions

As we welcome 2025, it’s important to engage with these tech trends. Make your IT resolutions count. Integrate AI into cybersecurity to harness the potential of new connectivity standards. Adapt to hybrid workforces. You don’t have to go it alone. Embrace expert support through MSPs such as NerdsToGo, allowing you the time to focus on growing your business in 2025.

How can AI enhance cybersecurity for small to medium-sized businesses?
AI boosts cybersecurity by continuously monitoring and quickly detecting threats beyond traditional methods, safeguarding digital assets and enhancing client trust.

Why is connectivity becoming so important, and how can businesses prepare for 5G, 6G, and advanced Wi-Fi technologies?
With 5G, 6G, and advanced Wi-Fi, businesses gain faster, more reliable internet, crucial for seamless remote work. To prepare, they should upgrade their infrastructure and technology.