Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights cover image

Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

Latest episodes

undefined
Dec 13, 2024 • 21min

Navigating Compliance: Trends, Challenges, and the Future for MSPs in 2025 w/ Tim Golden

Dave Sobel engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tim Golden, CEO of Compliance Scorecard. They discuss the evolving landscape of compliance, particularly in the context of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) as they look toward 2025. Tim emphasizes that compliance is not a fleeting trend but a critical aspect of business operations, drawing parallels to the historical implementation of seatbelt laws. He highlights the increasing importance of regulations such as the FTC safeguards and CMMC, which are becoming essential for small businesses and the MSPs that support them.The discussion delves into the challenges faced by software manufacturers regarding compliance and security measures. Tim points out the tension between the need for robust security features, like multi-factor authentication, and the reluctance of some software vendors to implement these measures due to the costs involved. Dave pushes back on this notion, arguing that the industry has a choice in how it approaches compliance and security, and that proactive advocacy for regulations could lead to better outcomes for all stakeholders involved.As the conversation progresses, Tim shares insights on the self-regulating nature of certain industries and the potential for organizations like CompTIA to set standards for MSPs. He believes that the community of MSPs must take the initiative to establish best practices and compliance measures, akin to the licensing requirements in other professions. This self-regulation could help elevate the standards within the industry and ensure that MSPs are equipped to handle the compliance needs of their clients effectively.Finally, Tim reveals that Compliance Scorecard is launching a professional services division aimed at supporting MSPs in navigating compliance challenges. This new initiative will provide additional resources and expertise to help MSPs deliver compliance as a service to their clients. Tim expresses optimism about the future, emphasizing the need for MSPs to engage in meaningful conversations about business outcomes and compliance, ultimately positioning compliance as a framework that supports business success rather than a burden. Supported by: https://tdsynnex.com/StreamOneIon/  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
undefined
Dec 12, 2024 • 16min

Google Gemini 2.0, Cybersecurity Breaches, and the Future of Managed Services

Google launched Gemini 2.0, their next-generation AI model, which includes an experimental version called Gemini 2.0 Flash, boasts impressive capabilities such as generating text, images, and speech while processing various inputs. With a focus on multimodal functionality, Gemini 2.0 aims to support agentic AI systems that can think ahead and act on behalf of users. Host Dave Sobel highlights key features like the multi-modal live API and Project Mariner, an AI-powered Chrome extension, while also noting the limitations of these tools in their current testing phases.The episode shifts to cybersecurity, addressing a critical vulnerability discovered in Microsoft's Azure multi-factor authentication system. Researchers revealed that this flaw allowed attackers to bypass security measures, potentially exposing over 400 million Microsoft 365 accounts. Although Microsoft has since implemented fixes, the incident underscores the need for organizations to adopt proactive security measures. Additionally, Sobel discusses alarming findings from Wallarm regarding the rapid discovery of newly deployed APIs by attackers, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced security practices in the face of evolving threats.Sobel also explores the changing landscape of managed services, referencing a Forrester article that discusses the transformative impact of AI on the industry. As organizations seek to deliver high-quality services while controlling costs, AI is enabling a shift towards outcome-based pricing models. This evolution allows businesses to improve efficiency and customer experiences, with some AI platforms reportedly handling up to 70% of customer interactions. Sobel encourages IT providers to adapt their offerings to meet the growing demand for higher-value services that align with clients' business goals.Finally, the episode raises thought-provoking questions about the future of managed services and the role of AI in shaping these changes. Sobel challenges listeners to consider how they can pivot from traditional service offerings to advisory roles that help clients navigate technology investments. He also prompts reflection on the trustworthiness of AI models and their capabilities in handling various tasks. As the episode concludes, Sobel teases upcoming discussions on compliance and practical AI applications, inviting listeners to engage with the evolving narrative of technology in business. Three things to know today00:00 Gemini 2.0 Lands: Google's Bold AI Play Mixes Speed, Smarts, and Early Access Perks04:51 Microsoft Azure MFA Breach and API Risks Underscore Need for Proactive Cybersecurity Measures08:40 Can AI Handle 70% of the Work? Crescendo’s Model Sparks a Revolution in Managed Services Supported by:  https://timezest.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
undefined
Dec 11, 2024 • 11min

TeamViewer's $720M Acquisition, Microsoft Shareholder Pushback, SEC Cyber Rules, and Windows 11 Warnings

The episode starts with TeamViewer's acquisition of 1E for approximately $720 million. This strategic move aims to enhance TeamViewer's capabilities in digital workplace management and intelligent endpoint management, ultimately improving employee experience and operational efficiency. With TeamViewer already installed on over 2.5 billion devices globally, this acquisition is seen as a pivotal step in the convergence of remote support and endpoint management, reflecting the evolving needs of businesses in a digital-first world.The episode also covers Microsoft's recent annual meeting, where shareholders rejected six proposals, including those addressing the risks associated with artificial intelligence and a suggestion to invest in Bitcoin. The board's opposition to these proposals highlights a preference for maintaining focus on existing strategies rather than diversifying into volatile investments. This decision underscores the shareholders' concerns regarding AI risks and the importance of governance in the development and deployment of AI technologies, indicating that companies must proactively assess these risks as they adopt new solutions.Additionally, Host Dave Sobel highlights a report from BreachRx revealing that many publicly traded companies are struggling to comply with the SEC's new cyber disclosure rules. Despite the intention to enhance transparency, only 17% of public filings provided specific details about the material impact of cyber incidents, with many companies opting for vague language. This compliance gap raises concerns about the effectiveness of the SEC's regulations and the ongoing reluctance of organizations to disclose sensitive cybersecurity information, which they often view as critical business intelligence.Finally, the episode addresses Microsoft's warning regarding the installation of Windows 11 on unsupported devices, emphasizing the potential compatibility issues and lack of support for security updates. As users continue to find workarounds to install the operating system on older hardware, Microsoft stresses the importance of adhering to minimum system requirements. This situation reflects the broader trend of companies tightening their upgrade policies, which can create opportunities for managed service providers and IT departments as they navigate the implications of these changes in the tech landscape.Four things to know today00:00 TeamViewer Acquires 1E for $720M to Drive Digital Workplace and Endpoint Management Evolution03:18 Microsoft's Annual Meeting Highlights Shareholder Pushback on AI Oversight and Cryptocurrency Ventures05:32 SEC Cyber Disclosure Rules Fall Short as Companies Struggle with Compliance and Clarity07:10 Microsoft Warns Against Unsupported Windows 11 Installs, Highlights Compatibility Risks  Supported by:  https://getthread.com/mspradio/https://www.coreview.com/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
undefined
Dec 10, 2024 • 18min

MSPs Propel AI Growth: ChatGPT Pro, Domain-Specific Models, and New Tech Innovations

A recent survey by ISG indicates that nearly two-thirds of executives in the Americas and Europe are utilizing MSPs for their AI initiatives, with enterprise spending on these projects expected to rise by 50% in 2025. Sobel highlights the shift towards smaller, domain-specific AI models, which are anticipated to become mainstream as organizations seek more cost-effective and efficient solutions tailored to their specific needs.Host Dave Sobel elaborates on the advantages of small language models, which require less computing power and can be trained more quickly than their larger counterparts. Major tech companies like Microsoft, Meta, and Google are already developing these models for applications such as marketing and customer support. This trend presents MSPs with opportunities to pivot from generic IT services to specialized, process-driven support, focusing on process reengineering and small AI model specialization to meet the evolving demands of enterprises.The episode also covers recent developments from OpenAI, including the launch of ChatGPT Pro, which features an upgraded reasoning model, O1. This new model promises enhanced performance in coding and mathematics, while OpenAI's new text-to-video AI model, Sora, allows users to generate videos from text. Sobel notes that while these advancements are exciting, they come with challenges, particularly regarding the potential for deceptive behavior in AI models, as highlighted by recent research.Finally, Sobel discusses the broader implications of AI adoption in the enterprise sector, emphasizing the need for a sustainable revenue model as the industry faces high operational costs and legal challenges. He raises critical questions about the right applications for AI and the importance of profitability across the supply chain. As businesses increasingly integrate AI to enhance efficiency, Sobel encourages listeners to remain informed about the strengths and limitations of AI technologies, particularly in high-stakes environments.Four things to know today00:00 MSPs Drive Generative AI Adoption as Enterprise Spending on AI Projects Grows by 50% by 202505:15 ChatGPT Pro Debuts with Enhanced o1 Model: IT Services Brace for Advanced AI in Coding and Decision-Making 09:50 Domain-Specific AI: How Shopping Agents and 15-Day Forecasts Highlight Contrasting Use Cases11:42 Generative AI at a Crossroads: Balancing Practical Applications with Sustainable Revenue Models  Supported by:  https://tdsynnex.com/StreamOneIonhttps://www.huntress.com/mspradio/    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
undefined
Dec 9, 2024 • 15min

U.S. Job Growth, IT Labor Trends, VDI Challenges, Private 5G, and AI's Impact on SMB Revenue

The U.S. economy added 227,000 jobs in November, with a slight increase in the unemployment rate to 4.2%. Notably, the IT sector saw stable hiring, with the unemployment rate for IT professionals decreasing to 2.5%. However, a recent study highlights the impact of return-to-office mandates on employee turnover, especially among women and skilled workers, indicating a significant challenge for companies in retaining talent.Host Dave Sobel emphasizes the importance of employee retention strategies as organizations prepare to restructure their technology teams for 2025. A survey revealed that over 40% of IT workers are exploring new job opportunities, driven by factors such as competitive compensation and work-life balance. With nearly 90% of IT professionals expecting their companies to redesign IT structures in the next 18 months, reskilling in areas like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence is becoming a top priority. The tight labor market, with IT unemployment at a low 2.5%, necessitates proactive engagement with potential candidates and investment in employee development.The episode also delves into technology spending, particularly the challenges associated with virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). A survey of IT workers found that while many recognize the potential benefits of VDI, cost considerations often take precedence over performance. The lack of visibility into VDI integration with applications leads to frustration among IT teams, with a significant percentage reporting daily or weekly issues. Sobel suggests that a hybrid model combining VDI and traditional desktops may offer a solution to balance efficiency and cost.Finally, Sobel highlights the growth of the private LTE and 5G market, which is expected to continue expanding significantly in the coming years. He also discusses the positive impact of artificial intelligence on small and medium-sized businesses, with a majority attributing revenue growth to AI implementation. As companies increasingly invest in AI technologies, the role of CIOs is evolving, with many being tasked to act as chief AI officers. The episode concludes with a reflection on the ongoing developments in AI and the importance of data governance as businesses navigate these transformative technologies. Three things to know today00:00 U.S. Jobs Growth, IT Labor Trends, and Employee Retention: How Companies Are Tackling Workforce Pressures in 202504:24 VDI Challenges, Private 5G Growth, and AI’s Impact on SMB Revenue08:55 Microsoft, AWS, and Reddit Expand AI Features and Cloud Strategies  Supported by:  https://tdsynnex.com/StreamOneIonhttps://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
undefined
Dec 8, 2024 • 17min

Balancing MSP Standardization, Talent, & Strategic Decision-Making w/ Elliott Hyman

Dave Sobel sits down with Elliott Hyman, CEO of Myra Technology Group, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities faced by managed service providers (MSPs) operating within a collective framework. Hyman shares insights into how his organization selects and supports a diverse group of MSPs, emphasizing the importance of understanding each business's unique identity, employees, and customer base. This tailored approach allows them to guide each company along a continuum of operational maturity, ensuring that they can grow without losing the qualities that make them distinctive.The conversation delves into the concept of sustainable growth, which Hyman defines as building healthy companies that prioritize the well-being of employees and customers. He highlights the pitfalls of short-term cost-cutting measures that can undermine long-term success. Instead, Hyman advocates for a balanced approach that focuses on nurturing talent and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By investing in the right people and sharing knowledge across the portfolio, Myra Technology Group aims to create a supportive environment that drives sustainable growth for its MSPs.As the discussion progresses, Hyman addresses the challenges faced by mid-sized MSPs, particularly those transitioning from founder-centric operations to more structured growth strategies. He notes that many of these businesses struggle to maintain their growth rates as they scale, often due to underinvestment in sales and marketing. Hyman emphasizes the need for a robust sales organization and strategic investments to ensure that these companies can compete effectively in a fragmented market.Finally, Hyman reflects on the evolving landscape of the MSP industry, particularly regarding technology integration and platform approaches. He acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the future of MSP platforms but remains optimistic about empowering individual operating companies to make informed decisions that best serve their teams and customers. By fostering a culture of experimentation and adaptability, Myra Technology Group aims to navigate the complexities of the industry while continuing to support the growth and success of its MSP partners. Supported by: https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/  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
undefined
Dec 7, 2024 • 25min

Exploring AI in Content Creation: Tools, Techniques, and Future Possibilities with Dave Sobel

Host Dave Sobel dives into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its practical applications in content creation. He shares insights from a recent presentation on how managed service providers (MSPs) and their customers are leveraging AI. Sobel emphasizes the importance of AI as a tool that enhances his workflow, allowing him to produce a daily news show efficiently while maintaining a personal touch in content curation. Sobel outlines his workflow for preparing the daily news show, which includes gathering news stories through RSS feeds and utilizing AI tools like Feedly for story grouping and translation. He explains how he organizes the stories in Notion, where AI assists in summarizing content according to his specific preferences. This meticulous process ensures that the stories are presented in a readable format, making it easier for him to create scripts for the show. The episode also highlights Sobel's use of various AI tools throughout the content creation process, including Grammarly for language refinement and custom GPT models for generating headlines and crafting the "why do we care" segments. He discusses the importance of human oversight in the AI-assisted workflow, ensuring that every piece of content aligns with his standards and voice. This collaborative approach allows him to maintain quality while benefiting from the speed and efficiency that AI provides. Towards the end of the episode, Sobel introduces an intriguing experiment involving AI-generated video and voice. He challenges his producer, Sharon, to identify which of three video segments features his real voice versus AI-generated content. This engaging segment not only showcases the advancements in AI technology but also raises important questions about authenticity and transparency in content creation. Sobel concludes by inviting audience feedback on the appropriate use of AI in his work, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining a human element in all his content. Jump to the AI Taste Test: https://www.youtube.com/live/nJPMIV0hP-Y?si=kP9fxhvg0SgFbS8I&t=598  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
undefined
Dec 6, 2024 • 16min

Exploring 1Password's Strategy, Cybersecurity Trends, and AI on Data Governance w/ Jason Eberhardt

Dave Sobel sits down with Jason Eberhardt from 1Password to discuss the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the role of managed service providers (MSPs) within it. Eberhardt shares insights into 1Password's commitment to building relationships with MSPs, highlighting the company's transition from a consumer-focused product to one that actively engages with the MSP channel. With over 150 partners and millions of users, 1Password is now prioritizing its offerings for MSPs, aiming to create a unique value proposition in a crowded market.The conversation delves into the complexities of the cybersecurity market, where numerous players vie for attention. Sobel and Eberhardt explore the tension between best-in-breed solutions and the push towards platform-based offerings. Eberhardt emphasizes the importance of direct relationships with MSPs, explaining how 1Password is adapting its approach to better serve this channel. He discusses the need for structured pricing that rewards MSPs based on their engagement and performance, ensuring transparency and understanding in the vendor-partner relationship.As they discuss the challenges of channel conflict, Eberhardt reveals that 1Password has recently hired a channel chief to navigate the complexities of reselling and distribution. He outlines a tiered pricing structure designed to incentivize MSPs while maintaining clarity about why certain partners receive better discounts. This approach aims to foster collaboration and trust between 1Password and its MSP partners, ultimately leading to a more effective partnership.The episode concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity. Eberhardt identifies AI as a critical trend to watch, noting its potential impact on security practices and the necessity for robust data governance. He emphasizes that while AI presents opportunities, it also introduces new risks that organizations must manage. The discussion highlights the importance of ongoing dialogue between vendors and MSPs to adapt to these changes and ensure that security solutions remain effective in an evolving landscape. Supported by: https://tdsynnex.com/StreamOneIon/   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
undefined
Dec 5, 2024 • 15min

re:invent: Amazon's AI Innovations, Cybersecurity Risks, Intel's Challenges, and IT's Rising Status

At Amazon's reInvent conference the company unveiled a range of AI-centric innovations. AWS CEO Matt Garman highlighted the transformative potential of generative AI across various industries, introducing Amazon Bedrock, which aims to streamline model training and reduce costs. The new Nova family of foundation models, including Nova Micro, Nova Lite, and Nova Premier, was also announced, showcasing AWS's commitment to enhancing AI capabilities. Additionally, updates to Q-Business, AWS's AI assistant, promise seamless integration with over 40 enterprise tools, enhancing workflow efficiency.The episode also delves into AWS's hardware advancements, particularly the Graviton processor, which offers significant improvements in price performance and energy efficiency. New instances featuring NVIDIA's Blackwell chips and the launch of Tranium 2, AWS's second-generation AI chip, further emphasize the company's focus on supporting AI workloads. To address reliability concerns, AWS introduced automated reasoning to combat AI hallucinations and model distillation for efficient multi-agent collaboration. Furthermore, AWS's new Aurora DSQL engine and Data Transfer Terminal locations aim to enhance data processing and storage capabilities.Shifting gears, Host Dave Sobel discusses a major cyber attack on U.S. telecommunications companies, urging the use of encrypted messaging apps to safeguard communications. The hacking campaign, attributed to China, has raised significant privacy concerns, with officials recommending encryption to protect sensitive information. The episode also touches on the role of AI in the recent global elections, where despite fears of misinformation, AI was utilized positively for language translation and voter engagement, highlighting a more balanced narrative than anticipated.Finally, the episode explores broader industry trends, including Intel's challenges following the forced exit of its CEO and the potential resurgence of monolithic architectures as companies reconsider the complexities of microservices. Sobel emphasizes the evolving role of IT departments, which are gaining recognition and influence within organizations due to the rise of AI. The discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their technology choices, partnerships, and the strategic contributions of IT in navigating these changes.Three things to know today00:00 Amazon Unveils AI-Centric Updates at re:Invent: Nova Models, Hardware Breakthroughs, and Legacy System Modernization06:04 Balancing Risks and Relief: Encryption and AI Oversight Take Center Stage in 2024's Security Landscape08:41 From Intel’s Future to Microservices’ Decline and IT’s Strategic Rise  Supported by:  http://blumira.com/radio/https://www.coreview.com/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
undefined
Dec 4, 2024 • 15min

Cyber Threats Evolve, Telecom Lawsuits, AI Challenges, and Hybrid IT Strategies in Focus

As organizations enhance their data backup practices, hackers are increasingly targeting essential systems to render them inoperable, causing significant financial pain for affected companies. A case shared by Palo Alto Networks illustrates the widespread impact of such attacks, where one incident affected over 100 partners of a single tech vendor. With predictions of more destructive attacks on the horizon, the episode emphasizes the need for organizations to bolster their defenses against these emerging threats.The episode also covers the recent developments in the telecom and tech sectors, including a settlement in principle between AT&T and VMware regarding a lawsuit over contract breaches. This legal battle arose after AT&T alleged that VMware's parent company, Broadcom, imposed subscription requirements prematurely, potentially costing AT&T hundreds of millions of dollars. Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission has granted T-Mobile and SpaceX's Starlink unit a license to provide supplemental internet coverage from space, marking a significant step in addressing connectivity challenges in remote areas of the United States.Sobel further explores the implications of recent cybersecurity enforcement actions by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which has charged several companies for misleading disclosures about cybersecurity incidents. The SEC's increased scrutiny highlights the importance of transparent communication regarding cyber threats, particularly for public companies. The episode underscores the need for organizations to maintain detailed documentation of incidents and ensure consistent messaging to protect themselves from regulatory penalties and reputational damage.Finally, the episode delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI) in various sectors. A recent court ruling in favor of a Massachusetts school regarding a student's use of AI for assignments raises questions about academic integrity and the need for clear policies on AI usage. Additionally, a disturbing incident involving Google's Gemini chatbot highlights the potential risks associated with AI systems that lack adequate safety measures. As AI becomes more prevalent, the episode stresses the importance of developing robust policies and fostering AI literacy to navigate the complexities and ethical considerations surrounding its use in education and beyond. Four things to know today00:00 From Destruction to Deception: New Cyber Threats Target Essential Systems and Corporate Networks05:12 Decisions in Telecom and Tech: AT&T Lawsuit, Satellite Expansion, and SEC Cybersecurity Crackdowns08:20 Artificial Intelligence Under Fire: Legal, Ethical, and Safety Challenges Explored11:12 Hybrid IT Strategy Gains Momentum as Mainframes Handle 70% of Global Transaction Value  Supported by:  https://tdsynnex.com/StreamOneIonhttps://getthread.com/mspradio/   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 AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app