Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

Major tech companies are reshaping the workplace with AI integration. Microsoft has revamped its AI chat service for enhanced productivity, while Google offers its AI tools at no extra cost. LinkedIn introduces new features like JobsMatch to streamline job seeking and recruitment. The competitive job market sees a rise in the 'Open to Work' feature. Additionally, with concerns over TikTok, many users are flocking to the Chinese app RedNote, sparking a newfound interest in learning Mandarin.

The FBI successfully hacked approximately 4,200 computers across the U.S. to eliminate the PlugX malware, which has been a tool for state-sponsored hackers in China since 2012. This operation, conducted in collaboration with French law enforcement, marks a proactive approach to combating cyber threats and underscores the importance of government intervention in mitigating advanced persistent threats.Sobel also discusses the ongoing struggles of the LockBit cybercriminal organization following a major takedown last year. The U.S. Justice Department's efforts to dismantle LockBit's infrastructure have left the group reeling, with a significant reduction in their operational capacity. This case serves as a powerful example of how coordinated law enforcement actions can disrupt ransomware-as-a-service operations, providing IT providers with a narrative to educate clients on effective ransomware defense strategies.The episode further explores the dual pressures faced by Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) regarding the adoption of generative artificial intelligence (AI). While a majority of C-suite executives recognize the potential benefits of generative AI, they also express deep concerns about the associated security risks. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has introduced a new initiative aimed at addressing these vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for effective risk management strategies as companies increasingly integrate AI technologies into their operations.Finally, Sobel highlights the recent developments from Gradient MSP and Citricom, both of which are addressing critical pain points for managed service providers (MSPs). Gradient MSP has launched a Managed Billing Reconciliation Service to streamline billing processes, while Citricom's acquisition of Televi aims to enhance its cybersecurity offerings. These initiatives reflect the evolving landscape of MSP services, where operational efficiency and robust security measures are paramount for success in a competitive market. Three things to know today00:00 Good News Alert: FBI Crushes PlugX Malware, LockBit Stumbles, and Cybersecurity Gains Momentum06:15 Billing, Breaches, and Bots: How MSPs and AI Security Are Tackling 2025’s Biggest Challenges08:58 From Billing to Cybersecurity: Gradient MSP and Cytracom Address Critical MSP Pain Points  Supported by:  https://getnerdio.com/nerdio-manager-for-msp/    All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The podcast dives into how AI is transforming business, particularly emphasizing a study showcasing the disparity in performance between top companies and their peers. It highlights the importance of executive backing and collaboration in AI success. Real-world examples, such as a new AI solution in healthcare, illustrate its potential to tackle systemic issues. Additionally, it addresses the discomfort in customer service roles regarding AI adoption and suggests a cooperative approach. Finally, insights on U.S. export controls for AI tech provide a glimpse into regulatory impacts.

The episode highlights a surge in small business digital transformation initiatives, with over 80% of surveyed leaders either adopting or considering AI technology. This trend is accompanied by a forecasted 40% increase in capital expenditures, reflecting a strong optimism among business leaders regarding future profits and sales. The episode also notes a recovery in the global smartphone market, driven by consumer demand for ultra-premium devices, and a substantial rise in data center spending, primarily fueled by hyperscalers and enterprise investments.The podcast delves into the job market, reporting that the U.S. added 256,000 jobs in December 2024, marking the largest increase since March. Unemployment rates fell to 4.1%, with wages rising by 3.9% year-over-year. CompTIA's report indicates a growth of 7,000 tech jobs in December, despite losses in PC and semiconductor manufacturing. The demand for roles in software development, IT project management, and cybersecurity remains robust, with nearly half of job postings not requiring a four-year degree, suggesting increased accessibility in tech careers.In a significant industry shift, the Computing Technology Industry Association has rebranded to the Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA), focusing on serving the IT channel. This change follows the sale of CompTIA's training and certification business, which will now operate separately. The GTIA aims to maintain affordable membership dues while expanding charitable initiatives in technology. Meanwhile, Kaseya's CEO Fred Voccola transitions to vice chairman, leaving behind a legacy of growth as the company seeks a new leader to navigate its future.The episode also covers recent acquisitions, including WatchGuard Technologies' purchase of ActZero, a threat analysis startup, and 1Password's acquisition of Trellica, a provider of SaaS access management tools. These moves reflect a broader trend of platform expansion within the tech industry. Four things to know today 00:00 Big Wins for Tech: AI Booms, Jobs Climb, and Small Businesses Bet Big on Transformation05:32 From CompTIA to GTIA: What the Rebrand Means for the IT Channel’s Future06:36 Fred Voccola Passes the Torch at Kaseya—What’s Next for the $1.5B Powerhouse?07:56 WatchGuard and 1Password Make Big Moves—Platform Expansion, Security, and SaaS Simplified Appearance on IT Business Podcast https://youtu.be/FCDmm2p_noc?si=WVcUxjLv71vGwjpb  Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://mspradio.com/engage/    All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and automation is reshaping the future of IT. This episode explores how managed service providers (MSPs) can leverage these powerful technologies to optimize their operations and deliver exceptional value to their clients.  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

In this episode of the Business of Tech Lounge, host Dave Sobel is joined by AI news writer Esther Shittu and seasoned journalist TC Doyle to discuss the current landscape of artificial intelligence adoption, upcoming regulations, and the implications of data center expansion. They explore how these factors impact IT services and strategies for guiding customers in a rapidly evolving tech environment. The episode also features audience questions, making it an interactive discussion on the future of AI and its integration into business practices.  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Key highlights from CES 2025, focusing on market predictions and the impact of potential tariffs on the tech industry. The Consumer Technology Association forecasts a 3.2% growth in the U.S. tech market, reaching $537 billion, contingent on avoiding a trade war under President-elect Donald Trump. The episode emphasizes the growing familiarity and usage of generative artificial intelligence (AI) among U.S. adults, with significant market growth anticipated in AI retail and virtual try-on technologies. However, the looming threat of tariffs could drastically affect consumer spending on essential tech products, particularly smartphones and laptops.The podcast delves into the omnipresence of AI at CES, highlighting major announcements from companies like Intel, AMD, and HP. Innovations such as Intel's enterprise-focused 200V chip and AMD's Ryzen AI Max processors showcase the industry's push towards integrating AI capabilities into consumer devices. However, some products, like the ChefMaker 2 Air Fryer and the Spicer AI Spice Dispenser, raise questions about their practical utility, indicating a disconnect between AI marketing and real consumer needs. The episode also notes the strong presence of Chinese AI and robotics companies at the event, underscoring the global competition in the tech landscape.In addition to hardware advancements, the episode discusses Microsoft's efforts to promote Windows 11, despite its slower adoption compared to Windows 10. With a significant portion of businesses and consumers expected to refresh their PCs by the end of 2025, Microsoft faces challenges in overcoming user hesitancy. The podcast warns against the trend of over-promising AI capabilities, urging listeners to maintain a skeptical perspective on emerging technologies and their practical applications in business.Finally, the episode shifts focus to the evolving landscape for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), which are expected to leverage AI for innovation and improved decision-making. Analysts predict a shift towards industry-specific AI tools and automation solutions that promise measurable returns on investment. As SMBs increasingly adopt AI analytics, the importance of vendor risk management and security measures will grow. The episode concludes by encouraging listeners to reflect on their reliance on hardware and consider how emerging technology trends can drive business outcomes, emphasizing the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing tech environment. Four things to know today 00:00 CES 2025: Tech Market Set to Grow, Unless Tariffs Bring the Party to a Halt02:15 AI Chips Shine, But Are Air Fryers the Best We Can Do?05:59 Nvidia, Intel, and AMD Play the Incremental Game: Chips, AI, and Small Wins09:09 From Hardware Woes to AI Wins: The Changing Landscape of Tech and SMBs  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The federal government has reported a substantial increase in AI use cases, with over 1,700 applications identified across 37 agencies, more than doubling the previous year's total. These use cases span various categories, including health, mission-enabling tasks, and government services. The Department of Health and Human Services leads with 271 reported cases, showcasing the growing integration of AI in public services.Host Dave Sobel highlights new innovations from companies like Synchro, AppDirect, and MacPaw, which are driving advancements in IT management. Synchro has launched a platform tailored for internal IT departments, enhancing operational efficiency through automation and AI. AppDirect's acquisition of FirstBase aims to streamline IT asset management, while MacPaw introduces CleanMyMac Business to simplify Mac maintenance for small and medium-sized businesses. These developments reflect a trend towards co-managed IT solutions, addressing the unique needs of corporate environments.The episode also covers the launch of the Cyber Trust Mark, a government initiative designed to bolster consumer confidence in smart home devices by ensuring they meet rigorous cybersecurity standards. This mark, akin to the Energy Star label, will be mandatory for federal purchases by 2027 and is expected to influence how IT service providers recommend and support devices. Sobel emphasizes the potential challenges and opportunities this initiative presents for managed service providers (MSPs) as they adapt to new compliance requirements.Finally, Sobel discusses Microsoft's strategic shift away from relying solely on OpenAI models for its Microsoft 365 Copilot system. The company is exploring in-house AI models and third-party options to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. This transition underscores a broader trend where customers prioritize the quality of solutions over the specific AI models used. Sobel concludes by inviting listeners to engage with the show and participate in the ongoing conversation about the future of managed services. Four things to know today 00:00 From Chatbots to Body Scanners: The Government’s AI Toolkit is Growing Fast03:42 2025 Systems Management Race: New Tools from Syncro, AppDirect, and MacPaw Drive Innovation07:21 Cyber Trust Mark: The Government’s Energy Star for Smart Devices is Here09:51 Who’s Driving Microsoft’s AI? Turns Out, It Might Not Be OpenAI for Long   All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Host Dave Sobel discusses significant cybersecurity developments involving the U.S. Treasury Department and its recent breach linked to Chinese hackers. The breach, which was discovered on December 8, 2024, involved unauthorized access to unclassified documents within the Office of Foreign Assets Control, raising alarms about the potential exposure of sensitive information related to economic sanctions. The episode highlights the ongoing investigations and the U.S. government's response, including sanctions imposed on a Chinese cybersecurity firm involved in the Flax Typhoon cyber attacks that compromised numerous internet-connected devices globally.Sobel also addresses the national security concerns surrounding TP-Link internet routers, which hold a dominant market share in the U.S. The Commerce, Defense, and Justice Departments are investigating the company due to its alleged ties to Chinese cyber threats and its failure to rectify security vulnerabilities. The episode emphasizes the importance of securing cloud systems, as CISA has mandated federal agencies to conduct security assessments in light of recent breaches attributed to foreign hackers. This directive aims to enhance the security posture of federal cloud environments and protect sensitive information.The discussion shifts to the leadership transition at PIA, where CEO Jerwai Todd has stepped down after a year, passing the reins to an executive group. Sobel reflects on the challenges of dual CEO roles and the importance of operational stability during this transition. He notes Todd's contributions to the company, including the launch of an AI-driven help desk ticketing system, and emphasizes the need for a capable leader to navigate the competitive landscape of help desk automation.Finally, the episode covers OpenAI's recent announcements regarding its new reasoning models, O1 and O3, which aim to enhance AI capabilities and approach artificial general intelligence. Sobel discusses the implications of OpenAI's shift towards a for-profit model and the potential impact on the development of AI technologies. He highlights the need for practical applications of these advancements and the importance of addressing concerns about the ethical implications of AI development. The episode concludes with a reminder of the significance of these developments in the broader context of technology and national security. Three things to know today 00:00 From Treasury Hacks to Router Risks: The U.S. Grapples with China’s Cyber Onslaught06:31 Dual CEO Role Dilemmas: Gerwai Todd Passes the Torch at Pia08:51 AI Gets a Power Boost: OpenAI’s Big Plans, Bigger Models, and a Push for Profits  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

A recent report from Kaseya reveals that 91% of MSPs are prioritizing profitability, with a significant portion expecting revenue growth despite challenges in customer acquisition. The competitive landscape sees smaller MSPs leveraging niche expertise, while the rise of AI-driven threats poses new challenges, with over two-thirds of providers reporting increased attacks. Sobel highlights the findings from a Fiverr survey of U.S. small business owners, which indicates a strong sense of optimism for the year ahead, especially in sectors like education, finance, and retail. Despite concerns about rising costs and potential recession, nearly 90% of respondents remain hopeful, with women-led firms exhibiting even greater optimism. As small businesses prepare for 2025, their focus is on hiring talent, marketing investments, and adopting new technologies to enhance efficiency. The episode also touches on the varied revenue growth performance of the Big Four consulting firms, with Deloitte leading at an 8% increase, while others like Ernst & Young reported declines. This landscape presents opportunities for smaller, agile providers to fill gaps in digital transformation and tailored IT solutions, particularly in compliance services, which have seen significant growth. Sobel emphasizes the importance of understanding regional opportunities and risks as providers navigate the evolving market. In regulatory news, a U.S. appeals court ruling has significant implications for net neutrality, allowing states to maintain their own rules while limiting federal authority. Additionally, new laws in California regulating artificial intelligence and deepfakes are set to reshape the landscape. Sobel warns that the power consumption of AI data centers could strain electricity supplies, urging tech providers to prioritize energy efficiency and sustainability as they plan for the future. The episode concludes with a somber note, remembering two influential figures in the IT services community who recently passed away. Three things to know today 00:00 2025 Optimism Abounds: MSPs and Small Businesses Double Down on Growth, Tech, and Staying Ahead of AI Threats05:10 Net Neutrality Is Out, AI Rules Are In07:34 Watch Out for Those Data Centers Burning the Grid    All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech