With increasing threats targeting businesses of all sizes, it’s crucial that your IT budget reflects the need for comprehensive protection. Managed detection and response (MDR) and 24/7 IT support are essential services to ensure your business stays secure and operational.
If you’re in need of reliable IT services in Bracknell, now is the time to prioritise these services in your IT budget. Investing in a robust IT strategy will safeguard your business from emerging risks and ensure that you can confidently move forward, knowing your systems are protected.
How Cyber Security and Continuous Monitoring Are No Longer Optional
While many companies once relied on basic firewalls or antivirus software to protect against threats, the reality of the new year has shown that cybercriminals are growing increasingly sophisticated in their attacks.
In fact, recent industry data reveals that the global cost of cybercrime is expected to reach $11.36 trillion (around £8.4 trillion). To prevent businesses from becoming part of this increasing statistic, MDR and 24/7 monitoring ensure robust protection.
MDR services provide real-time threat detection and immediate response to incidents, allowing businesses to address vulnerabilities before they become full-blown crises.
This continuous monitoring allows for a proactive stance, where IT systems are constantly being watched for any unusual behaviour or potential threats. By incorporating MDR into your IT strategy, you ensure that your business is prepared for the unexpected, without waiting for a breach to occur.
Budgeting for an IT Roadmap: Hardware Refresh, Support Contracts, MDR/24-7 Monitoring
Creating an IT budget for 2026 is about aligning your financial resources with the long-term goals and growth plans of your business.
This includes planning for IT infrastructure upgrades, support contracts, and robust cyber security measures. Let’s break down the key elements your IT budget should cover:
- Hardware Refresh: Keeping underperforming and older systems leaves your business vulnerable to security breaches. Outdated devices can struggle to meet the demands of modern software applications, and they may not support the latest security protocols. A hardware refresh ensures that your infrastructure remains efficient and secure, supporting your business’s goals in 2026 and beyond.
- Support Contracts: A solid IT support contract goes beyond resolving immediate problems; it includes ongoing system maintenance, updates, and upgrades, which help prevent future issues. Additionally, it allows businesses to budget effectively by providing predictable costs, eliminating surprise repairs or service fees.
- MDR & 24/7 Monitoring: As discussed, the integration of MDR and 24/7 monitoring is an essential investment. These services provide ongoing threat detection, ensuring your systems are constantly evaluated for potential vulnerabilities. Including this service in your 2026 IT budget is a smart move to ensure your business stays protected from evolving cyber threats.
Allocating funds for MDR and 24/7 monitoring is an investment in the longevity and cyber security of your business, helping you avoid the high costs associated with security threats.
The Benefits to Firms When Investing in Managed IT Support Locally
When considering IT services, many businesses opt for large, national service providers or global outsourcing solutions.
However, local IT support offers several compelling advantages that larger providers can’t match, particularly for businesses in areas like Bracknell:
- Personalised Service: Local IT providers have a deeper understanding of the challenges businesses face in the Bracknell area. Whether it’s regulatory considerations, local market conditions, or specific industry challenges, a local provider can tailor IT solutions to meet these needs.
- Quicker Response Times: A local provider can offer faster response times than a national service provider during a disaster, minimising the impact of any IT issues on your operations.
- Stronger Relationships: Unlike large national providers, local IT companies often work closely with their clients, building strong relationships that lead to more tailored solutions, better service, and a more proactive approach to IT management. With a local partner, you have access to customised services that align with your business objectives.
Explore SolCo’s Expertise and Webinar Recap
For those who missed the recent Solution Consultants webinar on MDR and 24/7 support, in partnership with Acronis, now is the perfect time to recap.
The webinar provided an in-depth look at the evolving threat landscape, highlighting the importance of proactive cyber security and continuous monitoring.
The discussion focused on how businesses can integrate MDR and 24/7 support into their IT strategy, helping to mitigate risks and enhance operational resilience.
The webinar provided valuable insights into how to optimise your IT infrastructure for the year ahead. And if you’re ready to implement these services, we can guide you through the process, ensuring your business stays ahead of emerging cyber threats.
Speak to SolCo About Budget Planning
Speak to us today about how to plan your IT budget effectively and ensure your business is secure and future-ready.
FAQs
- What is MDR, and why should my business invest in it?
Managed Detection and Response (MDR) is a proactive cyber security service that provides 24/7 monitoring to detect and respond to threats in real-time. Investing in MDR helps protect your business from cyber-attacks, ensuring that threats are dealt with before they escalate. - What are the benefits of 24/7 IT support for my business?
24/7 IT support ensures that your business has access to technical help at all hours of the day, reducing downtime and ensuring issues are addressed promptly. This type of support is essential for maintaining smooth operations and security. - How can I create an IT budget for 2026?
To create an effective IT budget for 2026, assess your current IT infrastructure, identify areas for improvement (e.g., hardware refresh, support contracts, cyber security), and allocate funds accordingly. Expert IT services can help you plan a comprehensive budget.
