In today’s fast-moving digital world, businesses face a key challenge: adopting new technology while keeping cybersecurity top of mind. In a recent ISF Podcast episode, ISF Podcast, Steve Durbin, CEO of the Information Security Forum (ISF), explored this balancing act. This blog shares key takeaways from the conversation and what they mean for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The Pressure of Technological Innovation
Speed drives the tech industry. Innovations like AI and cloud computing move rapidly, forcing businesses to decide jump in early and face possible headaches, or delay and risk missing out.
Steve Durbin explains that many organisations feel this pressure.
“If you adopt new tech too early, you hit challenges that can diminish the return on investment. But if you wait too long, you may be missing valuable opportunities…”
For SMEs, the stakes are even higher. With smaller budgets and lean IT teams, rapid tech adoption becomes harder. Yet, this doesn’t mean falling behind is inevitable. Strategic partnerships with managed service providers (MSPs) allow SMEs to innovate while managing costs.
SMEs may lack enterprise-level funding, but their agility gives them an edge. By working with the right tech partners, they can roll out changes faster than larger, slower-moving firms.
Legacy Systems: A Growing Problem for All Businesses
Durbin also highlights the burden of legacy systems. Many businesses still operate with outdated infrastructure unfit for modern demands.
“We’re still talking about legacy systems, and replacing those in many organisations,” he says.
This problem affects SMEs too. Often, they rely on systems patched repeatedly—raising costs and security risks. Larger firms might afford replacements, but smaller ones often get stuck in a loop of temporary fixes.
Managed IT Services can change that. MSPs assess current infrastructure, recommend upgrades, and implement modern, secure solutions. This helps SMEs embrace new tech without overwhelming costs.
The Overlooked Priority: Cybersecurity
Durbin warns that security often gets sidelined during tech upgrades. But overlooking cybersecurity can leave businesses vulnerable.
“Security has always lagged behind technology,” he notes.
SMEs may lack dedicated security staff. That’s where MSPs come in. With managed security offerings—like firewalls, endpoint protection, and ongoing monitoring—MSPs help SMEs stay protected while they innovate.
Fun Fact: A 2021 study found that 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses. Alarmingly, 60% of those businesses shut down within six months of an attack. That’s why cybersecurity must stay front and centre.
Quantum Computing: A New Frontier
The podcast also explores quantum computing—a technology still developing but already raising red flags for data security.
Durbin notes that quantum computing could eventually break today’s encryption systems. Businesses handling sensitive data will need to overhaul their defences.
Even if quantum feels far off, SMEs should prepare now. Partnering with MSPs that monitor quantum developments gives them a future-ready advantage.
Tip: Planning ahead means SMEs won’t scramble when the encryption shifts hits. Staying informed today avoids panic tomorrow.
How Can Businesses Prepare for the Future?
Durbin’s main message is simple: stay agile. Technology will only evolve faster, and businesses must keep pace—securely.
✔️ Focus on Your Crown Jewels
Protect the data and systems most critical to your business. These assets deserve the strongest defences.
✔️ Review the Supply Chain
Your vendors and partners need to follow modern tech and security standards too.
✔️ Plan Ahead
Start thinking about future risks—like quantum threats—before they become urgent.
✔️ Leverage Managed IT Services
MSPs provide expert guidance in cloud, cybersecurity, and IT management—without the cost of an internal team.
Final Thoughts: Innovation and Security Aren’t Optional
Durbin’s insights drive home one truth: tech and security must go hand in hand. SMEs may not have endless resources, but they’re not powerless. Smart strategies and strong partnerships level the playing field.
With the right support, SMEs can embrace innovation, stay secure, and compete confidently in the digital age.
