As the New Year begins, IT managers must plan for 2025, ensuring a smooth transition from the holidays to a productive four quarters. To help, here’s a checklist of five key IT priorities to focus on.
1. Windows 10 End-of-Life
Windows 10 support will end on 14 October 2025 – Microsoft will not provide security patches, technical assistance, or software updates, leaving devices more vulnerable to cyber-attacks and performance issues. Upgrading to Windows 11 avoids this while offering features such as a new interface, live captions, and integrated passkeys. As a Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP), Orca offers support with licenses and Microsoft services.
2. Rise of AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transformative. AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft 365 Copilot are revolutionising how companies operate through automation: transcribing meetings, drafting emails, creating content, and more. By 2025, AI will be more embedded in daily business processes, making it essential to explore how AI can improve efficiency and be integrated.
3. Sustainable IT
As with most industries, sustainability is now a focus in IT. Migrating to energy-efficient data centres and cloud storage solutions can help reduce energy consumption. Transitioning to environmentally friendly hardware that uses less energy and is recyclable is another green step. These sustainable IT practices not only align with global environmental goals but also offer long-term cost savings.
4. Increasing Security
Cyber and IT security are critical, with nearly half of businesses experiencing breaches last year. That statistic should be a catalyst for conducting a comprehensive review of their security measures. Proactive strategies, such as assessments, training, and multi-factor authentication, are essential to safeguard against evolving cyber threats and strengthen defences.
5. Backup and Disaster Recovery
Disaster recovery planning is vital for protecting data and ensuring business continuity in case of cyber attacks or natural disasters. Backup is the cornerstone of recovery. Reviewing backup processes, ensuring proper encryption, and utilising cloud services will ensure that critical data is protected and recoverable.
Conclusion
Effective IT strategies ensure organisations remain secure, efficient, and sustainable. The five priorities outlined above are essential for keeping your business ahead of the curve. At Orca, our team of experts are ready to assist you with these priorities – and more – by creating a customised strategy for IT success in 2025.
You can reach us through our website at www.orca.co.uk/contact/, call us on 0345 504 8989 or email marketing@orca.co.uk