Insights
Tech trends, tips, and thought leadership - straight from the IT frontlines
The top 8 cloud and connectivity trends to know today
Written By
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
Published at
26 November 2024
Nasstar appoints David Senior as Chief Financial Officer
Nasstar Group is pleased to announce the appointment of David Senior as Chief Financial Officer, with effect from 1st May 2025.
- Secure networks
Sailing smoothly with a cyber security assessment
Ready to embark on cyber security adventure? We'll be you navigator today.
Rebecca Hopwood-Keay
Marketing Manager (Secure Networks)
- Secure networks
SASE, SD-WAN, SD-Branch, ZTNA... What does it all mean?
This blog has been written by Rhys Lancaster, Consultancy and Service Delivery Director (Connectivity), at Nasstar.
- Microsoft
An introduction to Azure AI Foundry
This blog has been written by Florin Preda, Director of Technical Services at Nasstar.
- Secure networks
Is network security having its smartphone moment?
Remember flip phones? Sure, they were reliable: great battery life, tough as bricks, and if you dropped them, they'd just bounce back smiling. But would you trade your smartphone for one now? Didn’t think so.
Rebecca Hopwood-Keay
Marketing Manager (Secure Networks)
- Secure networks
Empower your tech team: Partner with Nasstar for network protection
Today, businesses are increasingly facing the dual challenge of maintaining a secure network while driving innovation.
Rebecca Hopwood-Keay
Marketing Manager (Secure Networks)
- Nasstar
Empowering women in tech: Insights from industry leaders
International Women’s Day on the 8th of March gave us the opportunity to pause and reflect on the progress made by so many women in our industry.
- Data & AI
What is effective AI Governance, and why does it matter?
This blog has been expertly reviewed by Jason Vigus, Head of Portfolio Strategy, Commercialisation and Governance at Nasstar.
Jason Vigus
Head of Portfolio Strategy, Commercialisation & Governance
Nasstar earns unique set of Fortinet specialisations
Nasstar is thrilled to announce its latest achievement, earning SD-WAN, Operational Technology (OT), and Security Operations (SecOps) specialisations through the Fortinet Engage Partner Program.
- Secure networks
Why you should care about OT security (and how it can save your bacon)
Ready to dive into the wild and wacky world of Operational Technology (OT) security?
Rebecca Hopwood-Keay
Marketing Manager (Secure Networks)
- Secure networks
The state of operational technology and cyber security in 2025: Key insights & takeaways
As we immerse ourselves in 2025, the landscape of operational technology (OT) and cyber security is evolving at a breakneck pace.
Rebecca Hopwood-Keay
Marketing Manager (Secure Networks)
- Secure networks
Unlocking success with OT security
As the digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly, operational technology (OT) security has become a critical component for organisations looking to protect their assets and enhance productivity.
Rebecca Hopwood-Keay
Marketing Manager (Secure Networks)
Nasstar joins Microsoft FastTrack community
We are very pleased to announce that Nasstar is once again part of the Microsoft FastTrack Partner Community.
- Data & AI
Breaking down the disconnect between data, AI, and business value
This blog has been written by Florin Preda, Director of Technical Services at Nasstar.
- Cyber security
Cyber security in 2025: Navigating the evolving landscape of threats and challenges
This blog has been written by Justin Barker, Employee Experience Practice Lead at Nasstar.
- Data & AI
Embracing the new era of autonomous innovation with agentic AI
Imagine a workforce that never rests - tackling not just repetitive tasks, but collaborating and making decisions, performing actions, and delivering real-time insights, all while removing distractions so your teams are empowered to focus on strategic, high-value work.
Jason Vigus
Head of Portfolio Strategy, Commercialisation & Governance
- Secure networks
SASE vs SSE vs Zero Trust and their role in modern network security
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
- Secure networks
From steering wheels to SD-WAN: Adaptive tech for better experiences
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
- Secure networks
Building the secure digital factory: A blueprint for transformation
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
- Secure networks
Securing the digital factory: Building a fortress for Industry 4.0
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
- Microsoft
7 ways to boost productivity with Microsoft 365
The start of a new year offers a chance for change, and many of us are planning for success in the months ahead. For many organisations, boosting productivity and effectively tracking it across in-house and remote teams is a top priority.
- Secure networks
Harnessing Industrial IoT: Transforming operational technology for a competitive edge
The global Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) market has surged in the last five years, with projections to reach $1.8 trillion by 2028.
- Microsoft
Microsoft Ignite 2024: A round up
The vibrant city of Chicago played host to Microsoft Ignite 2024 this November, bringing together industry leaders, tech enthusiasts, and Microsoft Partners from around the world.
- Cloud
The top 8 cloud and connectivity trends to know today
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
- Digital transformation
The acceleration of digital transformation and how it’s affecting every industry
This blog has been expertly reviewed by Sean Morris, Chief Technology Officer at Nasstar.
Nasstar nominated in multiple categories at the WIT Excellence Awards 2024
Nasstar is proud to announce that we have been shortlisted in four categories at the 2024 Women in Tech Excellence Awards.
- Microsoft
Introduction to Microsoft Fabric: A game changer in data analytics
This article was written by Florin Preda, Director of Technical Services Platforms (Azure) at Nasstar.
Colibri Digital Awarded AWS Generative AI Competency
We’re delighted to announce that Colibri Digital has earned the AWS Generative AI Services Competency, positioning it among a select group of companies recognised for their expertise in generative AI.
Nasstar Secures Contract on G-Cloud 14 Framework
We’re excited to share that Nasstar has been awarded a contract on the G-Cloud 14 Framework by Crown Commercial Services (CCS).
Nasstar at Connected Britain: Reflections on a changing landscape
In a rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape, connectivity is more crucial than ever for businesses across the UK. As of 2023, 97% of homes and businesses in Britain have access to superfast broadband, yet the demand for even faster, more reliable connectivity continues to surge. The advent of 5G, alongside the roll-out of full-fibre networks, is reshaping the way we connect, communicate, and collaborate.
- Cloud
Cloud and Connectivity: Driving operational efficiencies and cost savings
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
Nasstar achieves DevOps for GitHub Specialisation from Microsoft
We’re thrilled to announce that Nasstar has received the highly regarded DevOps for GitHub specialisation from Microsoft.
Nasstar achieves Modernise Endpoints Specialisation from Microsoft
We’re pleased to announce that Nasstar has received the prestigious Modernise Endpoints specialisation from Microsoft.
- Data & AI
What are big data solutions and why are they important?
Between social media, cloud technologies and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, traditional data infrastructure is no longer enough.
Andrea Rosales
Lead Data Scientist (Colibri Digital)
- Data & AI
How to prevent a data breach: A comprehensive guide
Today, every company — no matter the industry, sector or working practices — needs to know how to prevent a data breach.
Andrea Rosales
Lead Data Scientist (Colibri Digital)
- Digital transformation
What is digital transformation?
This blog has been expertly reviewed by Sean Morris, Chief Technology Officer at Nasstar.
- Microsoft
What's new in Microsoft Power Platform?
This blog has been written by Chris Burns, AI & Automation Technical Architect (Productivity) at Nasstar.
- Microsoft
What is Microsoft Power Platform?
This blog has been written by Chris Burns, AI & Automation Technical Architect (Productivity) at Nasstar.
- Contact centre
Skype for Business: The legacy continues
In the ever-evolving landscape of unified comms, Microsoft's Skype for Business Server has been an example of adaptability and resilience.
Nasstar receives two new Microsoft Cloud Partner Specialisations
Nasstar is pleased to announce that it has obtained two new Microsoft Cloud Partner specialisations for Infrastructure and Database Migration and Networking Services.
- Data & AI
How AI is used in the public sector
Artificial intelligence (AI) is now mainstream, with tools like ChatGPT impacting almost every area. The private sector has seen a significant shift, rolling out new AI systems that improve employee efficiency, create new products and increase profits.
Andrea Rosales
Lead Data Scientist (Colibri Digital)
- Data & AI
What is a data lake?
As AI adoption and customer IoT data become more available, data volumes continue to grow. But where do businesses store all this data efficiently until it’s ready for use?
- Data & AI
What is big data and how does it work?
‘Big data’ is a phrase that we’ve become used to hearing in everyday life, and its sizeable handle is certainly justified.
- Cloud
7 common cloud migration challenges and how to overcome them
Cloud migration means moving infrastructure, apps, data, and business processes from your on-premise resources to the cloud. You can also migrate from one cloud environment to another.
Adam Dunn
AWS Alliance Business Development Manager
- Cloud
What is scalability in cloud computing?
The golden rule of computing is that demand never remains the same. Different workloads require varying resources, while peaks and troughs in user requirements make under and overprovisioning a concern.
Jason Oliver
Senior Solution Architect & AWS Ambassador
- Secure networks
What is Wireless LAN?
From 8.3 billion connected devices in 2016 to 22 billion in 2021. WLAN adoption has surged in recent times.
- Data & AI
How can businesses prepare for the future of AI?
This blog has been expertly reviewed by Jason Vigus, Head of Portfolio Strategy, Commercialisation, and Governance at Nasstar.
Jason Vigus
Head of Portfolio Strategy, Commercialisation & Governance
- Data & AI
What is data governance?
Modern businesses gather data at scale. From structured customer data to raw text, an organisation might see gigabytes or petabytes of new information being stored daily.
Andrea Rosales
Lead Data Scientist (Colibri Digital)
Colibri Digital unveils a new look at the 2024 AWS Summit London
London, 24th April 2024 – Colibri Digital, a high-growth Enterprise Cloud Solutions specialist and leader in the field of Data, AI and Cloud Computing, is excited to unveil its updated brand identity at the AWS Summit today.
- Data & AI
Ethical Considerations in AI: Exploring the Boundaries of Artificial Intelligence
In the ever-expanding universe of artificial intelligence (AI), many of us are eager to start using this technology and experiencing its benefits in our daily work.
Jason Vigus
Head of Portfolio Strategy, Commercialisation & Governance
- Data & AI
Navigating AI & change management: How to embrace digital transformation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionise the workplace and how we do business. In many organisations, it’s already being used to improve processes, enhance productivity, and create a working environment miles ahead of the competition.
- Data & AI
What is a data warehouse?
Every industry is creating, storing, and analysing more data than ever. But how we use that information makes all the difference.
Andrea Rosales
Lead Data Scientist (Colibri Digital)
- Data & AI
What is synthetic data and how does it work?
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are changing the world. Every day, companies are using their data to learn more about customers, improve workflows, and create new products.
Andrea Rosales
Lead Data Scientist (Colibri Digital)
Colibri Digital to be a ‘Silver’ sponsor at the AWS Summit 2024
Colibri Digital, part of the Nasstar Group, are pleased to announce we will be attending the AWS Summit as a Silver sponsor.
Nasstar continues partnership with Treeapp in 2024
Hot on the heels of our successful partnership in 2023, we are delighted to once again partner with Treeapp to develop our sustainability initiatives in 2024.
- Cloud
What are the security risks of cloud computing?
According to recent estimates, up to 85% of companies now use two or more cloud services.
- Cloud
The top 10 cloud security best practices every business should know
Cloud security — and cyber security in general — is a balancing act. You need to ensure robust defences are in place to protect key systems, data, and people.
Jason Oliver
Senior Solution Architect & AWS Ambassador
- Cloud
What is edge computing?
Edge computing has become an emerging concept over the past few years, and at the most basic level, it means moving computing power, networks and where data is managed away from centralised resources so that it’s closer to where it’s needed.
Jason Vigus
Head of Portfolio Strategy, Commercialisation & Governance
- AWS
Seven top tips to get AWS Cloud Practitioner Certified
As the world becomes increasingly digitised and businesses prepare to adopt a variety of AI, Big Data, public cloud, and cyber security tools, employees need to adopt a lifelong learning mentality to keep up.
Adam Dunn
AWS Alliance Business Development Manager
- Data & AI
GenAI is here. Is your connectivity up to the task?
It’s estimated that GenAI could enable automation of up to 70% of business activities between now and 2030.
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
Nasstar demonstrates expertise with Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Designation for Security
We’re pleased to announce that Nasstar has received the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Designation for Security in recognition of its expertise in deploying security, compliance, and identity solutions.
- Secure networks
Why technology isn't the weakest link in your cyber security strategy
Threat actors are exploiting the human condition. Fear, empathy, and trust have become targets for the modern cyber-criminal, with phishing and other social engineering methods becoming standard.
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
- Secure networks
Unified Communications: Is your connectivity actually disconnected?
According to UC Today, 93% of organisations have increased Unified Communication (UC) use since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
Nasstar reaffirms commitment to customer success with Fortinet Expert MSSP Partner status
We are delighted to announce that Nasstar has achieved Expert MSSP (Managed Security Services Provider) Partner status with Fortinet, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions.
- Cloud
Moving to the cloud? You may need a bigger truck...
Over 90% of businesses are using the cloud in one way or another. But staggeringly, over 70% of cloud migrations fail.
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
Microsoft expands M365 Copilot to businesses of all sizes
On January 15th Jan 2024, Microsoft announced that it’s making enterprise subscription options available for smaller businesses.
The surprise reason your cloud adoption strategy isn't working
The power of cloud adoption cannot be overstated. For many organisations, there are countless tangible benefits to be had when the cloud is successfully implemented.
Darren Hogan
Director of Portfolio
Nasstar signs Microsoft Partner Pledge to drive positive change
Nasstar is pleased to announce we have once again signed the Microsoft Partner Pledge, committing to driving social and environmental impact in both our business and the wider community.
- AWS
AWS re:Invent 2023 - Everything you need to know
Back in fabulous Las Vegas, this year’s installment saw the best and brightest minds from across the industry gathering to share the latest insights and innovations in cloud computing.
Adam Dunn
AWS Alliance Business Development Manager
Nasstar awarded strategic position on CCS Cloud Compute 2 Procurement Framework
We’re pleased to announce that Nasstar has secured its position as a designated supplier on Lots 2 and 3 of the CCS Cloud Compute 2 Framework.
- Data & AI
AI overload: Is it simply enough to implement the tools? Insights from a Microsoft specialist
Generative AI. Copilot. Large Language Models. Cognitive Services. Our everyday lives are being flooded with a new form of intelligent tech.
Nasstar achieves prestigious AWS OLA partner status
Nasstar is delighted to have achieved OLA partner status with AWS, making us one of only a handful of UK Partners able to deliver this engagement.
New sponsorship news – Nasstar supporting girl’s in football and tech!
Nasstar is delighted to announce it is the new home and away kit sponsor for the Glossop North End Community Club under-16 girls team!
Leveraging Infrastructure as Code (IaC) for faster cloud deployments
From banking to ecommerce platforms, many of our customers develop and deploy applications for their end users. Each of these apps sits on top of infrastructure provisioned either by their own IT teams or our dedicated architects and engineers.
Nasstar 'star' nominated at WIT Excellence Awards
Nasstar is delighted to announce that Sally Blake Exley, Bids Coordinator, has been selected as a finalist in the ‘Rising Tech Star’ category at this year’s ‘Women in Tech (WIT) Excellence Awards’.
- Microsoft
What is Microsoft Azure?
The modern business landscape is reliant on powerful technologies that help organisations perform at their best. Cloud computing is one of the best examples of this, enabling businesses to quickly scale, adapt and make cost-savings whilst future-proofing their infrastructure.
Nasstar secures Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop Specialisation
We’re pleased to announce that Nasstar has achieved the Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop specialisation.
Kevin Dangerfield joins Nasstar senior leadership team as new CFO
Leading cloud services specialist, Nasstar, has appointed Kevin Dangerfield as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
Nasstar achieves AWS Managed Service Provider Designation for 9th year in a row
Nasstar is delighted to announce its renewal to the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Managed Service Provider (MSP) Partner Program for the 9th year in a row.
This is your (M365) Copilot speaking
The age of AI transformation Since the start of the 21st century, AI and machine learning have played a role in how businesses operate.
What is IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)?
If you’re planning a move to the cloud, or you’ve already started your cloud migration journey, you’ve likely heard of Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).
- Microsoft
What is Microsoft Teams?
With 1 in 4 office workers now participating in hybrid or fully remote working, it is vital that organisations provide the best tools to streamline communication and collaboration, wherever they are.
- Cloud
What is cloud adoption?
The concept of ‘cloud computing’ stretches back to the 1960s, but the term wasn’t officially coined until 1996.
Nasstar announces strategic partnership with Omningage
Nasstar is thrilled to unveil its latest strategic partnership with Omningage, the leading provider of cloud-based customer engagement platforms.
Nasstar Renews Cisco Advanced Unified Contact Centre Enterprise Specialisation
We are pleased to announce the renewal of Nasstar’s Cisco Advanced Unified Contact Centre Enterprise Specialisation.
What is SaaS (Software as a Service)?
Over the past few decades, Software as a Service (SaaS) has transformed the way businesses operate.
What is a cloud landing zone?
When moving to the cloud, it’s essential to have the right building blocks in place.
What is an omnichannel customer experience?
In today’s always-on world, customers can interact with your business in many ways, across various channels, and at any time.
Nasstar elevates network and security capabilities with Fortinet SD-WAN Specialisation
Nasstar has achieved the coveted Fortinet SD-WAN specialisation, strengthening the 15-year partnership with the cyber security leader.
- Cloud
Five Steps to Cloud Sustainability
The rise in cloud computing has influenced the significance that optimisation and sustainability play in IT strategies.
Jason Oliver
Senior Solution Architect & AWS Ambassador
- Cloud
What is cloud monitoring?
The management of enterprise IT has always been complex. Now, with so many applications and an abundance of data per organisation, it’s become an increasing challenge to identify, track, and solve issues efficiently.
- Cloud
What is PaaS (Platform as a Service)?
Cloud computing has transformed how IT teams procure infrastructure and build applications. One of the best examples of this can be found in Platform as a Service (PaaS).
Nasstar earns prestigious Cisco accreditations for second consecutive year
Nasstar is proud to announce the renewal of its 'Gold Integrator' and 'Customer Experience Specialization' accreditations from Cisco for the second year in a row.
- AWS
The AWS sustainability story you haven't heard
As more organisations leave their legacy systems behind, aligning public cloud capabilities with sustainability efforts has become a key focus.
Jason Oliver
Senior Solution Architect & AWS Ambassador
Nasstar sponsors leading female in technology awards for the fourth time
Sponsorship of ‘Product Management’ category at DevelopHer awards recognises those leading innovative projects that ‘delight’ end users.
- Secure networks
What is SASE?
The global cost of cyber crime was estimated at $8.4 trillion in 2022 and is set to surpass $11 trillion in 2023, according to a study by Gartner.
Nasstar achieves Cisco Gold Provider accreditation for another year
Nasstar, a leading provider of advanced technology solutions, is delighted to announce the successful renewal of its Cisco 'Gold Provider' accreditation.
Latest certification positions Nasstar as the partner of choice for Amazon EC2 Windows
Nasstar is delighted to have been named as an Amazon EC2 for Microsoft Windows Server Delivery Partner, achieving yet another AWS Service Delivery Specialization.
- AWS
Embracing business transformation: Highlights from the AWS Summit London 2023
Last week, the AWS Summit London, one of the largest gatherings of cloud professionals in the world, brought over 25,000 people together to celebrate the endless possibilities of cloud computing.
Nasstar returns as a ‘Gold’ sponsor at AWS London Summit
Nasstar is delighted to announce that it will once again be a ‘Gold’ sponsor at the AWS London Summit taking place on the 7th of June at ExCeL, London.