The world of IT support has evolved rapidly over the past decade, and 2024 has proven to be a year of significant change for small businesses in Denver. From cloud domination to the rise of edge computing and AI-powered tools, the IT landscape is constantly shifting.
In this blog, we’ll take a retrospective look at the five biggest business IT trends that have shaped popular IT services in Colorado in 2024 and explore what’s in store for 2025.
2024’s Biggest IT Support Trends
Cloud Computing Dominates (But a New Approach Is Gaining an Edge)
Cloud computing has been the backbone of business IT for several years, and in 2024, it’s continued to dominate. Small businesses are relying more heavily on cloud-based solutions for everything from data storage to collaboration tools, appreciating the flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency it provides.
However, edge computing is starting to make waves, especially for businesses requiring faster processing and reduced latency. Edge computing allows data to be processed closer to its source, making it ideal for industries that need real-time insights, like retail or manufacturing.
Why the rise in popularity?
Cloud computing allows SMBs to scale operations quickly without the overhead of maintaining physical infrastructure. Meanwhile, edge computing is starting to gain traction because it reduces the strain on cloud networks and offers faster data processing times.
While edge computing is still in its early stages, it’s likely that in the next few years, more IT support in Denver will include edge services, especially as it becomes more accessible to smaller businesses.
- Improved Understanding of IoT (and Its Risks)
In 2024, more small businesses began to adopt Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, realizing the potential to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and offer better customer experiences.
IoT devices are now more integrated into business operations, from smart security systems to inventory management tools. But with the benefits come not-insignificant risks. Every new device connected to a company’s network presents a new entry point for cybercriminals.
As IoT adoption grows, businesses are becoming more aware of the importance of protecting their networks from potential breaches, even through simple measures like changing the default passwords on IoT devices. Many are also turning to local IT providers to help secure their smart infrastructure.
What’s behind better IoT understanding?
Back in April 2024, the UK became the first country to ban the sale of IoT devices with default passwords. This spurred wider discussions around their security, encouraging end users to be more mindful about integrating IoT.
- AI-Powered Tools for Cybersecurity
On the subject of security, 2024 saw a growing reliance on AI-powered tools to help protect businesses. Cybersecurity has always been a top priority for small businesses, but as threats continue to evolve (something we explored more in this blog post), AI solutions emerged as a cornerstone of defense.
Used as a supplement—not a replacement—for IT personnel, these tools can provide 24/7 monitoring, automate responses to threats, and continually learn from new attack patterns. This allows SMBs to stay ahead of hackers and ensure their systems are secure without overburdening their tech team.
Why AI-powered cybersecurity?
Put simply: to respond to AI-powered threats. AI tools can analyze vast amounts of data in real-time and spot patterns fast, helping professionals identify and address potential dangers even earlier. Those who partner with popular IT services in Colorado that leverage AI-powered tools are seeing better protection, with fewer incidents of downtime or data loss.
- SMBs Seek Support with Compliance
Regulations have set the tone for how businesses handle data, but even beyond legal obligations, companies are recognizing that being proactive about privacy is simply good business.
With consumers increasingly concerned about privacy—almost 50% have stopped buying from a company or using a service due to concerns—companies must prove they’re serious about protecting personal data. For many small businesses, this has meant improving data management practices and seeking IT support to ensure compliance with privacy laws and industry standards.
Why compliance matters more now
Consumers are becoming savvier about data privacy, and businesses that can demonstrate robust security practices are more likely to gain and retain trust. In a world where data breaches make headlines, small businesses are finding that personalized service and local charm are no longer enough to keep customers coming back—security and trust are just as important.
Moving With the Times: 2023 Trends That Evolved in 2024
None of these trends have sprung up spontaneously—they’re all the latest iteration of patterns we’ve seen emerge over the past few years, guided by market shifts and new information.
‘AI Use’ Becomes ‘AI Usage Policies’
Where 2023 saw experimental AI use skyrocket, in 2024, businesses are turning their attention to leveraging these tools safely. With a better understanding of AI’s true value and dangers, SMBs are enlisting expertise from IT support services in Denver to create usage policies focused on protection as well as positive outcomes.
IT Investments Turn Strategic
Another notable shift from 2023 is how businesses are viewing IT spending. Instead of short-term investments, companies are now treating digital transformation as a long-term strategy. This has resulted in smarter, more targeted spending on technology like cloud computing that will sustain operations over time.
Awareness Reaches an All-Time High
This year, new regulatory requirements expanded to affect businesses that previously weren’t impacted, forcing SMBs to quickly learn about compliance or face severe penalties.
As data breaches continue making headlines, general awareness of cybersecurity’s importance has also surged. Plus, businesses have started to see the tangible benefits of the technologies they adopted in 2023.
All of this has led to a growing appreciation for the value in leveraging tech and IT support expertise to innovate and optimize operations.
What’s in Store for 2025?
Looking ahead to 2025, it’s reasonable to predict that the following IT support trends will continue to grow in popularity for SMBs:
- AI-driven automation: Automation tools powered by AI will become even more sophisticated, helping businesses streamline operations while reducing manual task loads.
- Stronger cybersecurity measures: Cyber threats will continue to evolve, but so will the tools designed to combat them. Expect more AI-powered solutions and real-time monitoring to protect businesses from advanced attacks. If you haven’t yet integrated AI into your cybersecurity strategy, talk to an IT service provider to ensure you stay secure.
- Compliance-focused solutions: More business IT trends will focus on compliance in the coming months, particularly as consumers demand higher levels of transparency. SMBs that invest in compliance now will have a competitive edge as customers increasingly prioritize businesses that can guarantee data security.
Will any trends die out?
We might see less focus on basic cloud adoption as more businesses fully transition to cloud-based solutions. Instead, attention will shift to integrating advanced cloud services like edge computing and AI-driven analytics within SMB’s existing infrastructure.
By staying ahead of these trends and partnering with IT support in Denver, you can ensure you’re ready for whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead.
Red Bigfoot IT: Experienced IT Support Services for Denver Businesses
Struggling to navigate cybersecurity? Need tailored IT solutions that won’t see you losing efficiency in the name of meeting safety standards? We can help.
Our team of Denver-based tech experts strives to help businesses across the USA leverage technology to achieve more. We love supporting ambitious businesses to take the next step on their growth journey—if you’re one of them, we’d love to hear from you!
Book a meeting with our founder, Marc, to learn how our IT services can transform your operations.
