// EDITOR ’ S QUESTION //

MEs are the backbone of South Africa ’ s economy . However , their resilience and adaptability will continue to be tested in the coming year . The primary challenges will be for these small businesses to effectively navigate an increasingly digital landscape , strengthen their cybersecurity and manage resource constraints . With these challenges also come growth opportunities for those who look to embrace innovation . Below , are some of the challenges to look out for .

1 . Cybersecurity vulnerabilities

As SMEs adopt digital tools to improve efficiency , their exposure to cyberthreats increases . Many lack the resources or expertise to implement comprehensive security measures , leaving them vulnerable to phishing , ransomware and domain spoofing attacks . Technologies such as multi-factor authentication ( MFA ), Endpoint Detection and Response ( EDR ) and email protection solutions like DMARC are essential but often perceived as cost-prohibitive . At inq ., we provide solutions that deliver managed cybersecurity services tailored to SMEs .

2 . Resource constraints

Limited budgets and a shortage of skilled IT professionals make it challenging for SMEs to adopt advanced technologies . Solutions like cloud migration , which offer scalability and cost-efficiency , can appear daunting due to upfront costs and perceived complexity . Our cloud solutions , including hybrid models , are designed to help SMEs .

3 . Evolving customer expectations

Digital Transformation has reshaped customer behaviour . SMEs must now provide seamless , secure and personalised experiences to remain competitive . Achieving this requires not only the right technology but also reliable connectivity solutions that support hybrid environments and secure data flows . For instance , inq .’ s software-defined wide-area networks ( SD-WAN ) provide SMEs with the secure , high-performance connectivity required to meet these expectations .

The growth opportunities to consider include :

1 . Digital Transformation

Digital tools , particularly cloud computing , will empower SMEs to streamline operations , improve customer engagement and enhance scalability . Hybrid cloud environments , which combine the security of private clouds with the scalability of public clouds , offer an ideal pathway for SMEs to modernise their infrastructure without overhauling legacy systems .

2 . Intelligent connectivity

Emerging connectivity solutions , such as SD- WAN and private networks , are enablers for SMEs looking to optimise and support remote or hybrid workforces . These technologies ensure secure , high-performance data transit across multiple locations , unlocking new efficiencies and enhancing innovation .

3 . Resilient cybersecurity strategies

The rise of outsourced Security Operations Centres ( SOCs ) and managed Extended Detection and Response ( XDR ) services offers SMEs a cost-effective way to enhance cybersecurity . By leveraging these tools , SMEs can address the skills gap and ensure round-the-clock threat monitoring without maintaining in-house teams .

4 . AI and IoT integration

Adopting AI-powered tools and IoT devices will enable SMEs to optimise decision-making and operations . From predictive maintenance in manufacturing to real-time analytics in retail , these technologies open doors to improved productivity and customer insights . Our edge computing solutions facilitate smooth AI and IoT integrations , ensuring SMEs can harness these technologies to their full potential . �

AS SMES ADOPT DIGITAL TOOLS TO IMPROVE EFFICIENCY , THEIR EXPOSURE TO CYBERTHREATS INCREASES .

Intelligent SME . tech

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