"Empowering Your Business with Cutting-Edge IT Solutions"

Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10. That means:– No more security patches No more bug fixes No more protection from new vulnerabilities If your business is still running Windows 10, every device left behind is now a live security risk, exposing you to ransomware, compliance failures, and costly downtime. The good news? It’s not too late to act! If you haven’t migrated yet (or you’re unsure if your business is fully covered), now is the moment to get support. Our Business Development Team at Accelerator are a friendly bunch, happy to talk to you about your current IT set up and how to protect you. Contact Jake Davies direct: jake.davies@accelerator.uk.com   or telephone in on 0207 993 9100 Follow the steps below or if you don't have time - call us here at Accelerator on 0207 993 9100 What are your options for staying supported on a Windows operating system? Installing Windows 11 on your current PC - If your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11 and is eligible to upgrade directly to Windows 11, you might have already received a notification about upgrading. To check if your PC is eligible for the free upgrade go to  Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update  and select  Check for updates .  New PC with Windows 11  - If your PC is not eligible, or if you want a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed, you might want to start by exploring the latest Windows 11 PCs .  This tool will help you find the right PC based on your unique needs. ​​​​​​​ Extended Security Updates (ESU) program -  If you need more time before moving to a Copilot+ PC or other new Windows 11 device, the consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program can protect your Windows 10 device up to a year after October 14, 2025.  .

We have all seen the national news about Land Rover, M&S, the Co-Op and the NHS being targeted by cyber-bullies, attacking their business. High profile organisations on their knees, held to ransom by pirates. The domino effect ruins companies.   It starts with a single email. An employee receives what appears to be a routine management document. It’s well-written, looks familiar, mentions internal employee names and seemingly harmless. They click the link, download the file, and unknowingly unleash ransomware across the corporate network. Now the business faces a nightmare scenario: Systems are locked. Operations grind to a halt. The ransom demand arrives. Do you pay? Do you risk permanent data loss? Here’s how to plan and prepare.  Backup everything—and test your recovery process regularly. Train your team—phishing awareness is your first line of defence. Have a response plan—know who to call and what to do before disaster strikes. Are you ready for the worst-case scenario? Accelerator UK helps businesses build cyber resilience. From backup strategies to dedicated support teams. Contact us today to discuss protecting your organisation. Email us today to get a meeting arranged sales@accelerator.uk.com

In a world where technology is the backbone of every business, choosing the right IT provider is critical. While large companies often dominate the industry with huge promises and poor delivery, smaller IT providers bring unique advantages, especially when it comes to personalised customer service. Here’s why partnering with a smaller company focused on exceptional customer care can be the smarter choice for your business. Personalised Attention and Tailored Solutions Smaller IT companies - like us here at Accelerator - are often more flexible and responsive to the specific needs of their clients. Instead of offering one-size-fits-all solutions, they take the time to understand your business and craft IT services that are customised to your goals, challenges, and operational demands. This personalised approach ensures that your IT strategy aligns perfectly with your needs, and changes can be made swiftly as your business evolves. Direct Access to Experts Here at Accelerator At Accelerator you will have direct access to the people who actually work on your IT projects. You won’t be passed from one department to another or left waiting for days to get a response. Whether it's troubleshooting an issue or discussing new projects, you can count on speaking to knowledgeable experts who understand your account. This level of accessibility and accountability fosters a trusting and productive relationship. Agility and Faster Response Times One of our key strengths is our ability to react quickly. With fewer layers of management and bureaucracy, we can provide faster response times in emergencies and quickly adapt to changes in your business. If you experience a critical issue, you won’t be waiting in a long queue— we prioritise a quick, hands-on service to ensure that your operations can continue smoothly. Customer-Centric Approach With a smaller provider, you’re not just another account number—you’re a valued client whose business success directly impacts theirs. This focus on client satisfaction drives them to go above and beyond to meet your needs, provide honest advice, and work collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes. Greater Flexibility and Adaptability Large IT companies often have rigid processes and standardised packages that may not fit every business. In contrast, smaller IT providers can be more flexible and adaptable, offering customised packages that align with your specific requirements and budget. They can adjust services as your needs change, whether you’re scaling up (or down) or pivoting to a new direction. Building Long-Term Partnerships With Accelerator you’re not just entering a transaction; you’re forming a long-term partnership . We have a team of Business Development professionals who will start by getting to know your business inside and out, ensuring that they provide the right support and ideas every step of the way. This kind of relationship is built on trust, loyalty, and mutual growth, offering peace of mind that you’re working with a team that genuinely cares about your success. Conclusion Accelerator is a bespoke IT provider with a focus on customer service deliver unmatched personalisation, faster response times, and a deep commitment to your success.

What is Cyber Essentials?   Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed certification that helps organisations protect themselves against common cyber threats. It focuses on five key technical controls:  Firewalls  Secure configuration  User access control  Malware protection  Patch management  Why Does It Matter for Your Business?   1. Trust and Reputation   Cyber Essentials shows clients, customers, and partners that you take data protection seriously. It’s a visible commitment to best practices in cybersecurity.  2. Government Contracts   Bidding for government or public sector contracts? You must  have Cyber Essentials certification for any work that involves handling personal data or certain IT services.  3. Lower Risk of Attacks   Most cyberattacks are basic in nature and easily preventable. Cyber Essentials helps reduce your exposure to phishing, malware, and ransomware.  4. Insurance Benefits   Some cyber insurers require it. Others offer lower premiums if your business is certified. Either way, it strengthens your case in the event of a breach.  5. Legal and Regulatory Compliance   With GDPR and UK data protection laws tightening, certification can support your efforts to stay compliant—and avoid fines.  Final Thought...   Cyber threats are evolving, but so are the defences. Cyber Essentials is an affordable, practical first step for protecting your business, data, and customers.

In a significant escalation of cybercrime targeting the UK retail sector, several major retailers, including Co-op, Marks & Spencer (M&S), and Harrods, were victims of coordinated cyber-attacks earlier this year. The breaches, which occurred in April, resulted in the theft of personal data belonging to millions of customers and members. Scope of the Breach Co-op confirmed that the personal data of all 6.5 million of its members was accessed during the attack. While no financial or transactional data was compromised, the stolen information included names, addresses, and contact details—raising serious concerns about privacy and potential misuse. M&S also reported a breach involving customer data, and the company continues to recover from the operational disruption, which has reportedly cost millions of pounds. Harrods, though less vocal about the extent of its breach, was similarly affected during the same period. Criminal Investigation Underway The National Crime Agency (NCA) is leading the investigation into the attacks. Four individuals—aged between 17 and 20—were arrested from various locations across the UK on suspicion of blackmail, money laundering, and offences under the Computer Misuse Act. All have been released on bail pending further inquiries. Electronic devices were seized from their homes as part of the investigation. Authorities believe the suspects may be linked to an organised cybercrime group that has been targeting high-profile organisations with the intent to steal data and extort money. Preventing Greater Damage In Co-op’s case, swift action by internal IT teams prevented the attackers from deploying ransomware, which could have caused even more severe disruption. The company disconnected its networks from the internet just in time, allowing it to contain the breach and begin forensic monitoring of its systems. Response and Future Measures In response to the attack, Co-op has launched a series of initiatives to strengthen its cybersecurity posture. One notable move is a partnership with The Hacking Games , a cybersecurity recruitment and education platform that identifies young talent and channels their skills into ethical careers. A pilot programme is being developed with the Co-op Academies Trust, which oversees 38 schools across England. This initiative reflects a broader industry trend of investing in proactive cybersecurity education and talent development to combat the growing threat of cybercrime. A Wake-Up Call for the Retail Sector The attacks have highlighted the vulnerabilities in the digital infrastructure of even the most established retailers. With customer trust and data privacy at stake, companies are being urged to reassess their cybersecurity strategies and invest in more robust defenses. As investigations continue, the retail sector—and its millions of customers—remain on high alert. The incident serves as a stark reminder that in the digital age, data is both a valuable asset and a potential liability.

Introduction It comes as no surprise that modern business is evolving rapidly. Cloud servers hum unseen, networks power our lives, and helpdesk tickets fly silently into digital queues. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence is becoming the latest buzzword, penetrating every corner of commerce. But amidst the automation and efficiency, what often gets overlooked is the backbone of every business: customer support. In a world obsessed with tech, what truly stands out is service—the personal, responsive, human interaction that quietly keeps everything running.   The Invisible Backbone As AI becomes embedded in every facet of our work life, it too has made its way into customer service. If IT infrastructure is the spine, then customer service is the beating heart. The spine, assumed to “just work,” needs to be strong and able to keep up with the body (the organisation). But sometimes there’s a hitch, a fault—and the heart has to pump a little harder. That’s where customer service comes in. It provides the backup needed when things don’t work the way we want them to. It needs to be quick, effective, and—crucially—personal. Clients want to feel heard, not herded through automated systems. The best support isn’t just reactive—it’s reassuring.     The Human Touch in a Digital World Customer service gives a business personality. We’ve all dealt with a chatbot, which probably left you feeling deflated and unattended to. The problem with chatbots is that they remove that personality—the voice you hear when you pick up the phone, the sense of urgency from the support team, the empathy and reassurance that your problem will be solved. Furthermore, there’s the relationship you build with them over time, without ever seeing their face. A familiarity with the team. The knowledge that you're in the hands of an expert who knows your system, so that you, the customer, receive support tailored to your needs. Trusted support.   The Future of Support As Gen Z—often labelled as the most digitally distant generation—enters the workforce, a question arises. This is the generation glued to their phones, yet anxious to make a call or have a conversation. Does personalised customer service disappear? AI and efficiency have taken the mainstream focus for businesses. Therefore, retaining personality may give the edge to any customer-centric business. The ones that prioritise customer relations and that ‘personal touch.’ The businesses that will stand out are the ones who can deliver this when it matters. Support can be a differentiator—a USP—for businesses looking to go the extra mile and set themselves apart in a tech-driven industry. Final Thoughts... Technology will keep evolving—and so will support. But no matter how smart your systems are, customers don’t just want solutions—they want connection. That’s something only real people can provide.

As the modern workplace continues to evolve, the concept of the “Office of the Future” is no longer a distant vision—it’s happening now. Businesses are reimagining their workspaces to support hybrid teams, enhance collaboration, and streamline operations. At the heart of this transformation are three key technologies: AV integration, smart room booking, and digital signage.  AV Integration: Flexible, Immersive, and Sustainable   In 2025, AV technology is all about adaptability and immersion. With hybrid work now the norm, companies are investing in modular AV setups, like mobile carts and reconfigurable mounting systems, that can transform any space into a high-functioning meeting room.     Ultra-large LED displays and 21:9 aspect ratio screens are becoming standard in boardrooms, offering immersive video conferencing experiences. These setups are often paired with motorised mounts for accessibility and ease of use. AV solutions are also being designed to blend seamlessly into furniture and collaborative pods, enhancing aesthetics while boosting functionality. Smart Room Booking: Efficiency Meets Experience   Gone are the days of double-booked meeting rooms and scheduling chaos. Today’s smart offices use AI-powered room booking systems that integrate calendars, occupancy sensors, and even voice assistants. These systems not only streamline scheduling but also provide real-time data on room usage, helping facilities teams optimise space.  Cable-free environments are also on the rise, reducing clutter and improving the user experience for both in-person and remote participants.   Digital Signage: Communication That Connects   Digital signage has become a cornerstone of internal communication strategies. According to a 2025 Gartner report, 50% of workplaces will adopt digital signage as part of their digital employee experience (DEX) strategy by 2026  Modern signage platforms allow for:  Dynamic content management  Targeted messaging  Real-time updates  Whether it’s broadcasting meeting schedules, emergency alerts, or company news, digital signage helps reduce information overload and keeps employees informed and engaged.  The Takeaway   The Office of the Future is not just about technology, it’s about creating smarter, more human-centric environments. By integrating flexible AV systems, intelligent room booking, and dynamic digital signage, businesses can foster collaboration, boost productivity, and stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept; it's a present-day reality reshaping how we work. In office environments, AI is streamlining operations, enhancing productivity, and redefining the employee experience. From smart scheduling to intelligent document management, AI is becoming an indispensable part of the modern workplace.    Smart Assistants and Productivity Tools   AI-powered virtual assistants like Microsoft Copilot, Google Duet AI, and ChatGPT are helping employees manage tasks more efficiently. These tools can:  Draft emails and documents  Schedule meetings based on availability  Summarize long reports or meeting notes  Automate repetitive tasks like data entry or invoice processing  By reducing cognitive load, these assistants free up time for more strategic and creative work.  Enhanced Communication and Collaboration   AI is improving how teams communicate and collaborate, especially in hybrid and remote work environments. Key innovations include:  Real-time translation and transcription  for global teams  Sentiment analysis  in team chats to gauge morale  Smart meeting summaries  that capture key points and action items  These tools ensure that communication remains clear, inclusive, and actionable.    Intelligent Document and Knowledge Management   AI is revolutionizing how information is stored, retrieved, and used:  Semantic search  helps employees find documents based on meaning, not just keywords.  Document classification and tagging  automate organization.  Knowledge graphs  connect related information across departments, making institutional knowledge more accessible.    Personalized Employee Experiences   AI can tailor the workplace experience to individual needs:  Learning and development platforms  recommend training based on roles and goals.  HR chatbots  provide instant answers to policy or benefits questions.  Wellness tools  monitor workload and suggest breaks or mindfulness exercises.  This personalization boosts engagement and wellbeing.    Office Automation and Smart Environments   AI is also making physical office spaces smarter:  Smart lighting and climate control  adjust based on occupancy and preferences.  AI-powered security systems  enhance safety with facial recognition and anomaly detection.  Desk and room booking systems  optimize space usage in hybrid work models.    Ethical and Practical Considerations   While AI offers many benefits, it also raises important questions:  Data privacy : How is employee data collected and used?  Bias and fairness : Are AI systems making equitable decisions?  Job displacement : How can organizations reskill workers for an AI-enhanced future?  Addressing these concerns is crucial for responsible AI adoption.    Conclusion   AI is not replacing the human workforce, it’s augmenting it. In office space, AI is a powerful ally that enhances productivity, fosters collaboration, and creates more adaptive and intelligent work environments. As organizations continue to embrace AI, the key will be balancing innovation with empathy, ensuring that technology serves people—not the other way around.

In May 2025, BT announced a landmark £9.8 million contract, boosted to over £10 million with additional investment, to deliver full-fibre broadband to nearly 1,800 hard-to-reach sites across the Swansea Bay City Region.  This initiative, part of the Better Broadband Infill Project, is a key component of the Swansea Bay City Deal’s Digital Infrastructure Programme and aims to close the connectivity gap in rural and underserved communities.  The rollout will span four counties, Pembrokeshire, Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, and Carmarthenshire, targeting premises currently receiving broadband speeds below 30Mbps and not covered by other government or commercial fibre plans.  The project is set to connect the first 220 premises by December 2025, with full completion expected by March 2027.  Why This Matters: Connectivity as a Catalyst for Growth   As Cllr. Rob Stewart, Chair of the Swansea Bay City Deal Joint Committee, noted:  “Access to reliable broadband is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. This project will ensure that everyone in the Swansea Bay region can participate fully in the digital age”   This sentiment reflects a broader national challenge. According to Ofcom’s latest Connected Nations report, around 2% of UK premises, roughly 600,000 homes and businesses, still lack access to “decent” broadband (defined as 10Mbps download and 1Mbps upload), with rural areas disproportionately affected.  Accelerator’s Role in Supporting the UK’s Digital Future   At Accelerator, we believe that every business, regardless of location, deserves access to fast, secure, and scalable connectivity. That’s why we offer:  Leased Lines : Dedicated, uncontended internet connections with guaranteed speeds and service-level agreements (SLAs), ideal for businesses that rely on cloud services, VoIP, and real-time collaboration.  Public WiFi Solutions : Custom-branded, secure WiFi networks that enhance tenant and visitor experiences in commercial properties, with built-in analytics and marketing capabilities.  Proactive Network Monitoring : Our prevention-over-cure approach ensures issues are identified and resolved before they impact your operations.  These services are especially critical for businesses in areas where infrastructure investment is just beginning to catch up. By providing enterprise-grade connectivity and support, Accelerator helps bridge the digital divide—not just in Wales, but across the UK.  Looking Ahead   BT’s fibre rollout is a powerful reminder that digital inclusion is essential for economic resilience, innovation, and social equity. As the UK accelerates toward a full-fibre future, Accelerator is proud to stand alongside this mission, empowering businesses with the tools they need to thrive in a connected world.  Find out more about how Accelerator can help with your IT and Telecommunication's Home Accelerator | Accelerator LTD BT lands £10m connectivity deal for Swansea Bay City Region

As the much of the world transitions back to office-based work, businesses are reimagining what the modern workplace should look like. The return to the office isn’t just about desks and meeting rooms, it’s about creating a smart, secure, and connected environment that supports productivity, collaboration, and employee well-being.  Why the Office Still Matters   While remote work proved its value, the office remains a vital space for:  Real-time collaboration and innovation  Mentorship and team building  Reinforcing company culture and values  But to make the return worthwhile, the office must evolve.  Preparing for the Return: Insights from Accelerator   Accelerator, a UK-based leader in IT, telecoms, and AV solutions, offers a blueprint for how offices can prepare for this new era. Their services are designed to maximize occupancy, enhance flexibility, and ensure seamless operations.  Smart Workplace Technology   Integrated Room Booking Systems: Real-time availability displays and easy scheduling reduce friction and improve meeting efficiency.  Digital Signage: Keep employees informed and engaged with targeted content in shared spaces.  AV and Conferencing Solutions: High-quality sound and video tools support hybrid meetings and collaboration.  Scalable IT Infrastructure   Hosted Telephony & Office 365: Enable flexible communication across devices and locations.  SharePoint & ShareStore: Centralized platforms for document management and team collaboration.  Azure Cloud Solutions: Secure, scalable, and cost-effective alternatives to on-site servers.  Connectivity and Security   Leased Lines & Public WiFi: Ensure high-speed, reliable internet access for all users.  Endpoint Management & Cybersecurity: Protect devices and data with proactive monitoring and business-grade antivirus.  Backup & Email Archiving: Safeguard critical information with encrypted, compliant storage solutions.    A Hybrid Future, Powered by Technology   The return to the office doesn’t mean abandoning flexibility. With Accelerator’s support, businesses can create hybrid-ready environments that empower employees to work effectively whether they’re at a desk, in a meeting room, or working remotely.  Final Thoughts   Returning to the office is an opportunity to redefine the workplace, not just as a location, but as a dynamic ecosystem that supports innovation, connection, and growth. With the right technology partner, like Accelerator, businesses can turn this transition into a strategic advantage.

Mental Health in the Workplace: Why It Matters and How We Can Do Better   In recent years, mental health has moved from the margins of workplace conversations to the center of organizational strategy—and for good reason. As the boundaries between work and life continue to blur, the mental well-being of employees has become not just a personal concern, but a business-critical issue.  At Accelerator, we believe that a healthy workplace is one where mental health is supported, understood, and prioritized at every level.    The Growing Need for Mental Health Support at Work   The modern workplace is evolving rapidly. Hybrid work, economic uncertainty, digital overload, and the pressure to perform have all contributed to rising levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout. According to a 2023 report by Mind , nearly 1 in 6 workers in the UK experience mental health problems such as depression or anxiety.  Yet, despite growing awareness, stigma still lingers. Many employees hesitate to speak up about their struggles for fear of being judged, misunderstood, or penalized. This silence can be costly—not just for individuals, but for teams and organizations as a whole.    The Business Case for Mental Health   Supporting mental health isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also smart business. Research shows that workplaces that invest in mental well-being see:  Higher productivity : Employees who feel mentally well are more focused, creative, and engaged.  Lower absenteeism : Mental health-related absences are a leading cause of lost workdays.  Improved retention : A supportive culture reduces turnover and builds loyalty.  Stronger teams : Psychological safety fosters collaboration, innovation, and trust.    What a Mentally Healthy Workplace Looks Like   Creating a mentally healthy workplace goes beyond offering an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) or hosting a wellness week. It’s about embedding mental health into the fabric of your culture. That means:  Leadership that leads by example : When leaders speak openly about mental health, it sets the tone for the entire organization.  Training and awareness : Equipping managers and teams with the tools to recognize signs of distress and respond with empathy.  Flexible working practices : Allowing people to manage their time and energy in ways that support their well-being.  Safe spaces for conversation : Encouraging open dialogue without fear of stigma or judgment.    The Role of Peer Support   At Accelerator, one of the most powerful tools we’ve embraced is peer support. This means creating opportunities for colleagues to connect through shared experiences—whether that’s through informal check-ins, mental health champions, or structured peer support groups.  Peer support helps break down isolation, builds empathy, and reminds us that we’re not alone. It’s not about fixing each other’s problems—it’s about listening, validating, and walking alongside one another.    Looking Ahead: A Shared Responsibility   Mental health is not a one-off initiative or a box to tick. It’s an ongoing, collective effort that requires commitment from every level of the organization. From HR policies to team dynamics, from leadership behaviors to everyday conversations—every touchpoint matters.  At Accelerator, we’re committed to building a workplace where mental health is not just acknowledged, but actively supported. Because when people feel safe, valued, and supported, they don’t just survive—they thrive.    Final Thoughts   The future of work is human. And that means putting mental health at the heart of how we lead, work, and grow together.  Let’s keep the conversation going—and more importantly, let’s keep showing up for each other.