IT Support Basingstoke: Key Takeaways from the Business Expo 2025 for Local Businesses

The Basingstoke Business Expo 2025, held on 30 April at The Apollo Hotel, gathered a diverse mix of entrepreneurs, technology professionals, and service providers. As one of Hampshire’s premier business networking events, the expo presented invaluable insights for local businesses looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Businesses can achieve Cyber Essentials certification to demonstrate strong cybersecurity practices.

For businesses in and around Basingstoke, this year’s event showcased the latest trends in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and IT strategy, emphasising the importance of well-configured IT systems in supporting business operations and security requirements. Utilising expert IT support can provide cost-effective solutions to enhance and maintain these systems, ensuring a strong protective measure to keep a business secure against various digital threats.

Key Takeaways from the Basingstoke Business Expo

Here are the key takeaways from the event and how they can impact your business operations.

1. Cybersecurity Remains a Top Priority for Basingstoke Businesses

Cybersecurity continues to be a major concern for businesses, especially as cyberattacks grow in sophistication. During the expo, several key speakers discussed the increasing threat of ransomware, phishing attacks, and data breaches, and the need for small businesses to adopt a proactive approach in managed IT services. They highlighted the importance of cyber essentials, a government-backed scheme aimed at helping organisations bolster their cybersecurity against common online threats.

Implementing robust security measures is essential for protecting data and infrastructure from cyber threats.

Cyber Essentials certification is particularly important for businesses, especially those bidding for government contracts, as it ensures compliance and enhances security measures.

Advanced firewall management is essential for securing networks and protecting against cyber threats, making it a crucial aspect of network security.

Key Points:

• Ransomware attacks are on the rise, and businesses are seeing a surge in both frequency and financial impact. The risk of data loss due to these attacks is significant, making it crucial to have robust backup and recovery solutions in place that also prioritise data security to protect against ransomware attacks.

• Phishing schemes are becoming more convincing, with AI-driven methods being used to target businesses. Cyber criminals are continuously evolving their tactics, making it essential to implement real-time email threat scanning and comprehensive cybersecurity IT services. It is also important to safeguard systems from threats posed by malicious software, particularly ransomware, by implementing preventive measures such as regular backups, timely software updates, and employee education.

What this means for you: Businesses in Basingstoke must treat cybersecurity as a priority. This includes implementing multi-layered protection, using endpoint security solutions, and investing in staff cybersecurity training. Partnering with a trusted local IT support provider is essential to ensure your business is protected from emerging threats.

2. The Growing Importance of Local IT Support

One recurring theme throughout the event was the need for reliable local IT support. With technology evolving at a rapid pace, businesses are realising the value of working with local IT support teams that understand the unique challenges facing businesses in Basingstoke. Reliable desk support is crucial as part of managed IT services, ensuring minimal downtime and comprehensive coverage for all technology-related needs.

Our support services in Basingstoke offer both managed and ad-hoc options tailored to meet the diverse needs of local businesses. Additionally, our managed IT services provide proactive monitoring, cybersecurity, and tailored support packages designed to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure continuity in technology operations. We also offer prompt and convenient on-site IT support, ensuring seamless operations across different business environments.

Why Local IT Support Matters:

• Proximity allows for faster response times and more personalised support service.

• Local providers are more attuned to the needs of businesses in the area and can offer tailored solutions that meet specific IT infrastructure requirements. Having a support partner that understands local business needs is crucial for effective digital transformation.

• Local support also means that there is no need to rely on outsourced call centres, ensuring more effective communication.

A skilled IT team is essential for effective digital transformation, providing the expertise needed to keep technology running smoothly.

What this means for you: If you’re still relying on an off-site or generic IT provider, consider switching to local IT support in Basingstoke for more responsive and personalised service. Whether you need IT consulting, network management, or 24/7 technical support, a local provider can be your best asset.

3. Cloud and Hybrid Work Are Now Standard

Many of the event’s exhibitors highlighted the ongoing shift towards cloud-based solutions and hybrid working models, emphasising the role of managed services in these transitions. Cloud computing offers businesses flexibility, security, and scalability, making it a crucial component of modern business IT strategy. These services ensure optimal performance by maintaining continuous operation and effectiveness of business processes. Additionally, secure cloud solutions can be customised to meet specific business needs, enhancing flexibility and efficiency in business operations.

Implementing measures to protect data in cloud computing solutions is essential for compliance with regulations like GDPR and ensuring the security of personal information.

Key Points:

• Cloud migration is no longer a “nice-to-have”; it’s a necessity for businesses looking to scale, maintain efficient operations, and reduce downtime through strategies like redundancy and disaster recovery. Regular security audits are essential to identify and address potential security weaknesses during cloud migration.

• Cloud services, such as Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, enable businesses to collaborate securely from anywhere, ensuring data integrity with features like high availability, redundancy, and automated backups. Proactive monitoring of security issues is crucial to prevent significant network problems that could disrupt business operations.

• Hybrid working is becoming the standard for many businesses, with the cloud being the backbone of this model.

What this means for you: If you haven’t yet moved to the cloud, it’s time to consider it. Cloud solutions improve efficiency, reduce overhead costs, and enable employees to work from anywhere. At IT Support Basingstoke, we offer cloud migration services and ongoing management to ensure your business stays secure and connected.

4. Artificial Intelligence and Automation Are Becoming Accessible

Artificial Intelligence (AI) was a hot topic at this year’s expo, with numerous exhibitors showcasing tools that use AI for business automation, data analysis, and security monitoring. Effective software procurement is a critical component of maintaining and enhancing technology performance. AI-powered solutions are now more accessible than ever before, even for small businesses.

These AI-driven cybersecurity solutions often include proactive maintenance, ensuring that systems are continuously monitored and maintained to prevent issues before they arise. Additionally, automated updates play a crucial role in maintaining operational efficiency by keeping systems up-to-date without manual intervention.

Key Points:

• AI tools can help automate repetitive tasks, improving overall efficiency. These services provide proactive support and expertise, ensuring that AI tools are tailored to meet specific business needs. Our expert team collaborates with clients to implement these tools effectively.

• Businesses are using AI-driven cybersecurity solutions to identify and respond to threats faster, ensuring minimal impact on operations. These solutions are supported by continuous monitoring, which enhances their effectiveness. Features like high availability, redundancy, and automatic failover are crucial for maintaining business continuity.

• AI chatbots are being used to improve customer service and communication.

What this means for you: AI is no longer reserved for large corporations. Small businesses in Basingstoke can take advantage of affordable AI tools to streamline operations and enhance customer engagement. Whether it’s automating administrative tasks or enhancing IT security, AI can provide significant value to your business.

How IT Support Basingstoke Can Help

At IT Support Basingstoke, we’re dedicated to helping local businesses stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technology. Our team provides fully managed IT services designed to improve cybersecurity, support cloud adoption, and streamline operations. Our IT team works closely with clients to tailor solutions that meet their specific needs. Understanding your unique business needs is essential for tailoring our IT support to align with your objectives.

Additionally, our IT support packages come with on-site support provided without any extra cost.

How We Help:

• Cybersecurity audits and implementing advanced endpoint security solutions to protect against evolving threats. There are various forms of cybersecurity audits available, each tailored to address specific vulnerabilities and compliance requirements.

• Cloud migration services that help you securely move your data and applications to the cloud, enabling remote and hybrid work environments. These services are supported by our team of experts who ensure a seamless transition and alignment with your business goals.

• AI integration to automate routine tasks, enhance security, and improve business operations.

• Ongoing IT support and consultancy with 24/7 network monitoring to ensure your systems are always running at their best, providing continuous oversight and proactive maintenance.

Whether you’re a small business just starting your digital journey or an established company looking to upgrade your systems, we provide the IT support you need to grow and thrive, including reliable disaster recovery plans to protect your business from potential data loss and ensure quick restoration and business continuity.

Ready to Improve Your IT Strategy?

If you didn’t have the chance to attend the Basingstoke Business Expo or if you’re now looking to take your business to the next level, IT Support Basingstoke is here to help. Our team of local experts is ready to provide the support services Basingstoke businesses need to stay secure, efficient, and competitive. We offer customised IT support packages that encompass various services tailored to your unique needs.

Choosing a reliable service provider for your IT support is crucial to ensure continuous technical assistance and alignment with your IT strategies. It is essential to select a provider that delivers practical and effective solutions to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.

Get in touch today to book a consultation and learn how we can support your business goals with our tailored IT solutions.

IT Support Basingstoke: Local expertise, expert solutions, and unparalleled support.