Oreta Marketing

The Future of ICT Service Operations in 2024: Key Insights and Predictions

by Oreta Marketing | Jun 15, 2023 | Managed Services

Is your business prepared to deliver and securely manage the rapidly evolving ICT landscape? As we approach 2024, it’s timely to explore the insights and predictions that will shape the future of ICT operations. In this blog, we delve into five key points that highlight the anticipated changes, discuss the origins of these insights, and provide actionable steps for businesses to take advantage of these predictions.

1. The Rise of AI-driven Automation
2. Increased Emphasis on Cybersecurity
3. Accelerated Adoption of Cloud Services
4. Growing Demand for Edge Computing Services
5. Further expansion and adoption of DevOps approach

The Rise of AI-driven Automation

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into ICT operations will revolutionise the industry. By 2024, AI will become a core component of service delivery, enabling advanced automation, predictive analytics, and proactive problem-solving. This shift will improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance overall delivery experience.

This highlights the rapid advancements in AI technology and its successful implementation in various sectors. For instance, companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have already leveraged AI-driven automation in their cloud platforms to optimise resource allocation, security, and performance. The proven benefits of AI in these contexts highlight its potential for driving similar transformation in your ICT operations delivery.

According to Gartner, by 2024, businesses that implement AI in their operations will witness a 30% reduction in IT infrastructure costs. Moreover, a report by Deloitte reveals that companies leveraging AI-driven automation in managed services achieve a 20% increase in customer satisfaction ratings.

To leverage this insight, businesses should look to invest in AI capabilities and expertise. They can embrace AI-powered monitoring tools that provide real-time insights, automate routine tasks, and identify potential issues before they impact operations. By proactively adopting AI-driven automation, businesses can streamline their ICT operations, improve service levels, and enhance customer satisfaction.

The future of ICT operations in 2024 promises ground-breaking transformations through AI-driven automation. By embracing this insight, businesses can gain a competitive edge, improve operational efficiency, and elevate customer experience.

Increased Emphasis on Cybersecurity

As technology continues to advance, so do the threats posed by cybercriminals. In 2024, there will be a heightened focus on cybersecurity within ICT operations. Businesses will further prioritise robust security measures, proactive threat detection, and swift incident response to safeguard their data and infrastructure from evolving cyber threats.

According to Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime damages are expected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, underscoring the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures. Additionally, a study by Accenture revealed that 68% of business leaders believe their cybersecurity risks are increasing.

This prediction arises from the escalating frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks across industries. High-profile data breaches and ransomware incidents have underscored the critical importance of cybersecurity. The rise of interconnected devices, cloud adoption, and remote work have further amplified the need for robust managed security services.

Businesses should invest in comprehensive cybersecurity solutions and consider partnering with managed service providers (MSPs) that specialise in cybersecurity. Implementing multi-layered defences, conducting regular security assessments, and educating employees on best security practices are crucial steps. Organisations need to adopt a proactive approach to cybersecurity to stay ahead of potential threats in 2024 and beyond.

Accelerated Adoption of Cloud Services

In 2024, businesses will increasingly embrace cloud services to optimise their IT infrastructure and operations. The flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency offered by cloud solutions will drive organisations to migrate their applications and data to the cloud. ICT operations and external service providers will play a crucial role in assisting businesses with cloud adoption, migration, and ongoing management.

According to Gartner, by 2024, more than 45% of IT spending on infrastructure, software, and services will shift from traditional solutions to the cloud. Additionally, a study by Flexera revealed that 93% of enterprises have a multi-cloud strategy, highlighting the growing popularity of cloud solutions.

The ongoing shift towards cloud computing and the undeniable benefits it offers in 2024 is causing an accelerated adoption of cloud services. Organisations across industries have experienced the advantages of cloud solutions, such as reduced infrastructure costs, enhanced accessibility, and improved collaboration. As businesses seek to leverage these benefits, the demand for cloud managed services will continue to surge.

To capitalise on this prediction, businesses should assess their existing IT infrastructure and identify suitable applications for cloud migration. They should partner with experienced service providers who can guide them through the entire cloud adoption journey. This includes developing a comprehensive migration strategy, ensuring data security and compliance, and optimising cloud resources for maximum efficiency.

Growing Demand for Edge Computing Services

In 2024, the demand for edge computing services will witness significant growth. With the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the need for real-time data processing, businesses will rely on edge computing to minimise latency and enhance efficiency.

According to IDC, by 2024, over 50% of new enterprise IT infrastructure will be deployed at the edge rather than in traditional data centres. Additionally, Gartner predicts that by 2025, 75% of enterprise-generated data will be processed at the edge. These statistics highlight the growing significance of edge computing in the managed services landscape.

The increase reliance on IoT devices and the need to process data closer to the source is leading to the growing demand for edge computing services. Industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and retail require low-latency computing capabilities to enable real-time decision-making and reduce dependence on centralised data centres. Edge computing provides a decentralised approach, and its potential benefits have been showcased in various use cases and pilot projects.

To leverage this prediction, businesses should evaluate their data processing needs and identify areas where edge computing can provide significant advantages. They should partner with vendors and / or service providers who possess expertise in edge computing architecture, deployment, and management. By embracing edge computing services, businesses can enhance their operational efficiency, improve customer experience, and gain a competitive edge.

Further adoption of DevOps practices

In 2024, there will be an increasing integration of DevOps principles and practices within ICT operations. Businesses will recognise the value of aligning development and operations teams to drive efficiency, agility, and continuous improvement. Organisations will adopt DevOps methodologies to streamline service delivery, enhance collaboration, and accelerate go to market innovation.

This prediction arises from the growing recognition of DevOps as a transformative approach to software development and operations. DevOps principles, such as automation, continuous integration, and continuous delivery, have proven to optimise workflows, reduce errors, and enhance overall productivity. As businesses seek to achieve faster time-to-market and deliver seamless customer experiences..

According to a survey conducted by Puppet, organisations that have successfully integrated DevOps practices experienced 63% fewer failures and recovered 168 times faster from incidents. Additionally, the State of DevOps report by DORA (DevOps Research and Assessment) found that elite performers in DevOps achieve 208 times more frequent deployments and have a 106 times faster mean time to recover from incidents. These statistics highlight the tangible benefits of adopting DevOps practices.

To take advantage of this prediction, businesses should embrace a DevOps mindset and culture. They should foster collaboration between development and operations teams, automate processes wherever possible, and adopt tools that facilitate seamless integration and continuous delivery. Partnering with managed service providers who have expertise in DevOps practices will further enable organisations to drive efficiency and innovation.

As we approach 2024, the future of ICT operations holds transformations that businesses should consider and evaluate. Oreta is doing the same and already adopting AI-driven automation, to enhance customer experience. Oreta’s expertise in ICT infrastructure, Cloud platforms and ICT operations positions them as trusted partner for businesses seeking to optimise their IT operations.

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7 signs that your IT infrastructure is vulnerable to a cyber-attack

by Oreta Marketing | May 17, 2023 | Security

Ransomware attacks have witnessed a staggering surge of nearly 500% since the commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the urgent need for Australian businesses to reassess their IT infrastructure and bolster their security measures. This will enable them to enhance their defences against meticulously targeted cyber-attacks. To determine whether your business requires a security reassessment, here are seven indicators that your IT infrastructure is susceptible to a cyber-attack:

1. Outdated software and hardware
2. Weak passwords
3. Lack of employee training
4. Insufficient network segmentation
5. Lack of patching
6. Lack of back-up and recovery plans
7. Data encryption

Outdated software and hardware

One of the primary methods utilized by hackers to infiltrate a network involves leveraging End of Life (EOL) and End of Service (EOS) hardware and software. EOL and EOS refer to situations where vendors cease providing support for a particular software, resulting in the discontinuation of updates and security patches beyond a specified date. As cyber-attacks continue to evolve and become increasingly targeted, failure to keep hardware and software up to date with rapid changes creates vulnerabilities within the IT infrastructure. For instance, among the approximately 230,000 globally infected computers, it was reported that 98% were running an unpatched version of Windows 7. As Windows 8 was released, the support and patching for Windows 7 naturally diminished, leading some businesses to delay the update due to their busy day-to-day operations. This delay in adopting updated software and hardware exposes businesses to successful attacks.

Organizations must prioritize and proactively manage their software and hardware upgrades. It is imperative to have a dedicated IT team that remains vigilant in conducting regular compliance checks to ensure the company remains ahead of the curve.

Weak passwords

Were you aware that ‘123456’ ranked among the top 10 most common passwords worldwide? According to research conducted by Cyber News Investigation, a total of 15,212,645,925 passwords were analysed, with only 2,217,015,490 of them being unique. Weak and easily guessable passwords pose the quickest and simplest route for cyber-attacks to breach a business’s IT infrastructure. A notable example occurred in 2012 when Dropbox experienced a security breach due to an employee reusing a password at work, resulting in the theft and online sale of 68 million user credentials to malicious hackers. Various companies, including Yahoo, LinkedIn, Adobe, and Equifax, have also faced similar breaches due to inadequate password security protocols.

It is crucial for passwords to be complex, incorporating uppercase and lowercase letters, special characters, and numbers, while avoiding dictionary words. Additionally, it is important to encourage employees not to reuse passwords across multiple sites. Here are some steps that businesses can take to ensure their employees use strong and secure passwords:

Employee education
Don’t share passwords
Get a password manager
Change password regularly through business wide policies
Make passwords stronger
Use two factor authentication

Lack of employee training

Effective training and awareness programs tailored to specific demographics are crucial to prevent successful cyber-attacks. Without such programs, employees may lack the knowledge and skills needed to identify and report potential cyber threats. According to IBM, human error accounts for more than 85% of cyber breaches, making people the primary gateway to such attacks. Employees with low levels of cyber security awareness are particularly susceptible to clicking on malicious links or opening attachments in phishing emails.

In 2020, Marriott Hotels & Resort experienced an internal compromise where hackers accessed two employee passwords, resulting in unauthorized access to 5.2 million private records. Unfortunately, it took two months for Marriott’s cybersecurity systems to detect the breach, highlighting the importance of regular regulatory compliance and cyber security training to prevent such incidents from occurring. With third-party assessments and consultation such as Oreta’s Cyber Training and Awareness solution, Marriott Hotel & Resorts could have reduced the chances of the breach overall.

Insufficient network segmentation

The outbreak of COVID-19 has brought about significant changes in the working landscape, with 50% of companies in Australia adopting hybrid work models. This shift to remote work introduces new challenges, as employees connect to their own unprotected networks, increasing the likelihood of successful cyber-attacks. One vulnerability arises from having a flat network, which provides a large attack surface. When an organization’s network lacks appropriate segmentation, a single compromised device can grant a hacker access to the entire system.

However, by dividing a large network into smaller sub-networks through network segmentation, the attack surface is reduced. This segmentation isolates network traffic within the sub-networks, impeding lateral movement. If a network perimeter is breached, the sub-networks act as barriers, preventing attackers from spreading laterally throughout the entire network. With cyber-attacks growing increasingly sophisticated, network segmentation becomes a vital measure to limit the impact of an attack by making it more challenging for cyber criminals to navigate through your network.

Lack of patching

Over time, it is often necessary to update and test the vulnerabilities of most downloaded software. Security patches are designed to address security gaps that were initially overlooked when the software was launched. It is alarming that approximately 95% of cyber-attacks specifically target unpatched vulnerabilities. Patching plays a crucial role because these vulnerabilities can be exploited by cyber criminals to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive information, or disrupt operations. By promptly applying patches, organizations can minimize downtime, reduce their exposure to threats, and enhance their overall security posture. On the other hand, neglecting to apply patches can have severe consequences for organizations, including data breaches, system failures, damage to reputation, and financial loss.

Lack of back-up and recovery plans

Data serves as the lifeblood of any organization, underscoring the critical need for businesses to have a comprehensive backup and recovery plan in place. Such a plan ensures operational continuity in the face of unexpected events, which can range from natural disasters and human errors to cyber-attacks. According to the 2020 Cost of a Data Breach Report by IBM and the Ponemon Institute, Australia ranked 13th out of 18 countries in terms of total data breach costs.

Without a backup and recovery plan, organizations lack a clear understanding of recovery times (recovery time objective or RTO) and recovery points (recovery point objective or RPO), both of which are crucial in the event of an attack. RTO represents the maximum acceptable downtime for an application, computer, network, or system following an unforeseen disaster, failure, or similar event. On the other hand, RPO defines the acceptable period within which an enterprise’s operations must be restored following a disruptive event.

Failing to proactively plan for these contingencies exposes businesses to greater losses and long-term consequences, including diminished customer loyalty and damage to brand reputation. Therefore, having a backup and recovery plan in place is essential for safeguarding against potential disruptions and minimizing the impact on the organization.

Data encryption

According to recent statistics from the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), there have been five data breaches in 2022 that have affected one million Australians. This highlights the increasing volume of sensitive data being shared and stored, making encryption a paramount concern for businesses. Encryption plays a vital role in safeguarding sensitive data against unauthorized access, ensuring confidentiality, and meeting regulatory requirements. While no security method is foolproof, data encryption is a crucial component in securing an organization’s data both during transmission and at rest.

Cyber-attacks pose a significant threat to businesses and organizations of all sizes, with cybercriminals showing no discrimination. Recognizing the signs of vulnerability in your IT infrastructure can help you take proactive measures to protect your systems and sensitive data. By identifying weaknesses, implementing robust security measures, and training employees in security best practices, you can reduce the risk of a cyber-attack and mitigate potential damages. It is essential to stay informed about the latest threats and security trends, regularly review, test, and update security plans such as Incident Response Plans (IRP), Business Continuity Plans (BCP), and Disaster Recovery Plans (DRP). Remaining vigilant is key to ensuring the ongoing protection of your IT infrastructure.

If you want to be proactive rather than risking on having to be reactive with your security, contact us now and have a no obligation chat with out security team.

Find out more on Oreta’s cyber security services here.

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Sources:

Eftsure
Data#3
Cybernews
IBM
CSO
HRD
OAIC

6 Cyber Security challenges to watch out for in 2023

by Oreta Marketing | Mar 6, 2023 | Security

Australia, like many other parts of the world face numerous cyber security trends and challenges, including:

1. Increased Cyber-attacks
Cyber threats and attacks are on the rise globally with the pacific region becoming a hot spot with malicious actors targeting governments, organisations, and individuals. During the 2020–21 financial year, over 67,500 cybercrime reports have been made in Australia, an increase of nearly 13 per cent from the previous financial year.

2. Lack of Cyber Security Awareness
There is a significant lack of awareness amongst individuals and organisations regarding the importance of Cyber security thus, making them more vulnerable and prone to cyber-attacks. Australian Cyber Security Centre reported that 82% of all breaches involved ‘the human element’ (the use of stolen credentials, phishing, misuse, or human error) in 2022.

3. Resourcing shortage
Australia has a shortage of cyber security experts and trained professionals. The lack of skilled cyber security professionals makes it difficult for organisations to implement and manage effective cyber security measures. There is an anticipated 38% growth in workforce shortages in Australian cybersecurity, outstripping forecasts for care and software development.

4. Inadequate IT infrastructure
Many businesses in the pacific region have outdated cyber security infrastructure thus making them an easy target for cyber-attacks. 40% of Australian IT leaders admitted to failing the security compliance audit in the Thales cyber report, 2021.

5. Continuous compliance
As cyber-attacks are becoming more advanced and ever evolving, this reflects in constant change and updates of the security regulations and laws. This makes it difficult for organisations to keep up and meet the changing requirements of insurance. Cyber insurance premiums soar 80% in 2022 as claims surge, following a 20 percent increase in the cost of cover in each of the previous two years.

6. Digital transformation
With digital transformation technologies such as Internet of Things (IOT), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain being adopted at a rapid pace, businesses are now more vulnerable than ever. Integrating newly established systems and platforms provides a levy for new cyber risks and challenges. Annual Cyber Threat Report found that the cost of a security breach cost $39,000 for small businesses, $88,000 for medium businesses, and over $62,000 for large businesses. An average increase of 14% per cyber-crime report.

To address these cyber security challenges, organisations in the pacific region need to invest in security education, strategy re-evaluation and most importantly a team of security experts. Prioritising the development and implementation of effective cyber security policies, regulations, and infrastructure can position organisations to improve and reinforce their security posture. Keeping up to date and sharing information among cyber security experts and like-minded businesses in the region is also crucial in helping organisations stay ahead of cybersecurity risks and threats.

At Oreta we believe in being proactive than reactive, protect your data and reputation and contact us now.

Endpoint Security– do you know which of your mobile, computer devices are protected or infected?

by Oreta Marketing | Feb 14, 2023 | Analytics

1. What is considered an endpoint?
2. What is endpoint security?
3. Why is it important to have endpoint visibility for mobile and computer devices?
4. How to gain visibility into your endpoint?

What is considered an endpoint?

In simple terms, an endpoint is one end of a communications channel. It refers to parts of a network that don’t simply relay communications along its channels or switch those communications from one channel to another. An endpoint is a place where communications originate, and where they are received—in essence, any device that can be connected to a network.

Examples of endpoint devices include:

Desktops
Laptops
Mobile devices
Tablets
Smartwatches
Internet of Things (IoT) devices
Point-of-Sale (POS) systems
Medical devices -Digital printers
Servers

What is endpoint security?

Endpoint security, or endpoint protection, is the process of protecting user endpoints (desktop workstations, laptops, and mobile devices) from threats such as malware, ransomware, and zero-days.

Endpoint security consists of a piece of software, called an “agent,” installed and executed on an endpoint to protect it from and detect an attack. Endpoint protection solutions, or endpoint protection platforms (EPP), work by examining processes, system activity, and files for suspicious or malicious indicators. These could come in the form of next-generation endpoint protection solutions such as EDR, XDR and much more.

Why is it important to have endpoint visibility for mobile and computer devices?

The majority of cybersecurity attacks originate at the endpoint. Cybercrime has become a big business. The average cost of a ransomware breach stands at $4.62 million USD (IBM Security Cost of a Data Breach Report 2021, compiling primary research conducted by The Ponemon Institute), which is more costly than the average data breach ($4.24M).

On average, a phishing attack takes 213 days to detect and 80 days to contain (Cost of Data Breach Report). 213 days is a lifetime, providing the attacker ample time to move laterally, establish persistence, conduct reconnaissance, plan, and finally execute an attack.

Endpoint visibility should be at the forefront of your IT security strategy, as endpoints are quite likely to be the first choice for an attacker trying to penetrate your organization’s network. At a time when hybrid and remote work is rising and human error is inevitable, businesses need to make sure they have visibility in real-time to stop the infection from spreading further.

How to gain visibility into your endpoint?

As IT visibility becomes more critical to organisations, it is becoming increasingly more difficult for senior IT executives to ensure that every endpoint is secure. GlanceX leverages data from within the various IT/vendor domains (such as security) and presents this information so that IT executives can see within seconds if their IT estate is operating effectively and if not, pinpoint quickly and accurately when and where the problem may be.

Being a strategic partner with several of the biggest security experts in the industry, Oreta understands the world of cyber threats and the importance it plays in protecting confidential information. GlanceX was developed with best practice security in mind, to provide digestible insight so companies can make quick and effective decisions.

The top-level dashboard shows holistic daily health checks of Security operations for the previous 30 days. The drill-down capability enables companies to see when and where the problem has occurred. GlanceX is easily accessed anywhere, any time and at any location via a simple, dedicated web browser link.

Unlock the True Costs of Network Outages and Bandwidth Drain: A CIO’s at-a-glance tool

by Oreta Marketing | Feb 6, 2023 | Analytics

Why is it important to have network visibility?

C-suite executives have a myriad of tasks and responsibilities, often overlooking or not understanding the technicalities of Network beyond the initial implementation. So, with staff needing to connect to anything, anywhere, at any time, how do they know how their network is performing at their various locations? Or how much network downtime their organisation has experienced? Which of their applications are using up the most bandwidth? Or what divestments or investments they should be making?

Network visibility allows businesses to drill down on their operations and mitigate the risk of flying blind. Understanding the network performance across multiple sites including downtime and application bandwidth allows businesses to maximise their cost allocation and increase their service delivery performance.

What is the best solution to gain network visibility across all your sites?

What Oreta has found is that senior executives do have granular network information; however, it is in disparate systems and often at a technical level of detail that isn’t easily digestible. Consequently, they must rely on specialists and spend additional time in getting the information they need which is not sustainable.

GlanceX leverages data from within the various IT/vendor domains (such as network) and presents this information so that decision makers can see within seconds if their IT estate is operating effectively and if not, pinpoint quickly and accurately when and where the problem may be. GlanceX complements the existing tools from infrastructure vendors rather than attempting to replace it. The top-level dashboard shows holistic daily health checks of network operations for the previous 30 days. From this overview, the CIO’S can make investing and divesting decisions to maximise cost efficiency. The ease-of-use experience also makes GlanceX the perfect solution for any business, with anytime at any location via a simple, dedicated web browser link.

Contact us now to gain visibility into your network and make data driven decisions.