Cradlepoint 5G-optimised NetCloud SASE secures agile enterprises

Cradlepoint, part of Ericsson, the global leader in cloud-delivered LTE and 5G wireless network and security solutions, today launched its single vendor Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution, NetCloud SASE. Designed to serve agile enterprises, NetCloud SASE integrates cellular-centric SD-WAN and security into a fully unified solution. The cloud-delivered platform enables lean IT teams to provision true zero-trust networks in as little as 6 minutes.
IDC forecasts that the 5G and 4G/LTE Enterprise Wireless WAN market will reach $5.5 billion in revenue by 2027. While this adoption allows organisations to extend their reach and move services closer to customers, an influx of connected devices increases the attack surface. This is driving the need for simplified, scalable, and specialised SASE solutions that extend beyond fixed sites to secure dynamic environments, such as shifting locations, roaming vehicles, multiplying IoT devices and employees connecting from anywhere.
“Cradlepoint has more than a decade of experience simplifying cellular networking for enterprises operating in the most challenging environments on the planet,” said Pankaj Malhotra, Head of Enterprise Networking and Cybersecurity Products, Cradlepoint, part of Ericsson. “We are now enhancing the simplicity of enterprise-class network security for even the leanest IT organisations by introducing a SASE solution that integrates cellular, SD-WAN, and security in a unified platform.”
NetCloud SASE’s unique design elements include:

Cellular Optimisation: Delivers Wireless WAN optimisations that preserve bandwidth, improve performance, and deliver a 5G standalone slicing-ready solution. SD-WAN with intelligent bonding provides a zero loss WAN for mission-critical communications from vehicles and sites.
Unparalleled Simplicity: While many SASE vendors have focused on unifying management across multiple disjointed products, Cradlepoint NetCloud SASE is based on a clean, single pass architecture that delivers one platform, one policy engine and a consistent provisioning experience across all services.
Zero Trust Built in Rather Than Bolted On: Combines security with the network creation process to construct a zero-trust foundation that is deny-all by default. The solution also obscures all IP addresses and blocks east west traffic, minimising the attack surface and preventing lateral movement, as the network grows and scales.
Powerful Isolation Technology to Block Zero-day Exploits: Offers a zero-trust approach to web and email security by leveraging Remote Browser Isolation to completely airgap users from malicious web activity. Without impacting the browsing experience, the solution protects organisations against phishing attacks (even when a user clicks on the link), retains intellectual property from potential leaks and disarms embedded malware in attachments.
Robust Security for Unmanaged Devices: Replacing the common practise of providing clientless browser-based access for unmanaged devices, NetCloud SASE uses isolation-based security to airgap corporate applications from unmanaged devices – mitigating the risk of malware infection.

“Streamlining the transition from wired to wireless WAN, NetCloud SASE provides a common networking and security policy engine and consistent provisioning experience across all SASE features,” said GigaOm Sr. Industry Analyst Ivan McPhee based on GigaOm’s Radar Report that named Cradlepoint a Challenger and Outperformer in SASE.
The early access version of NetCloud SASE is available immediately. General availability will follow in late Q2 2024. To learn more about Cradlepoint security capabilities, please visit our NetCloud SASE site.

 

KnowBe4 to acquire Egress

KnowBe4, the provider of the world’s largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Egress, a leader in adaptive and integrated cloud email security. Egress’ Intelligent Email Security suite provides a set of scaled, AI-enabled security tools with adaptive learning capabilities to help prevent, protect and defend organisations against sophisticated email cybersecurity threats. Further terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Organisations globally struggle to contain behavioural-based data breaches, with 74 percent of incidents involving the human element according to Verizon’s Data Breach Investigations Report. By acquiring Egress, KnowBe4 plans to deliver a single platform that aggregates threat intelligence dynamically, offering AI-based email security and training that is automatically tailored relative to risk.
“The future of security is personalised AI-driven controls and real-time coaching. By providing a single platform from KnowBe4 and Egress, our customers will benefit from differentiated aggregate threat detection to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and foster a strong security culture,” said Stu Sjouwerman, CEO, KnowBe4. “As integration partners for over a year with strong philosophical and cultural alignment, this acquisition is a natural progression for both companies to take human risk management and cloud email security to the next level.”
“KnowBe4 and Egress have a shared vision of delivering tailored and relevant security to each employee,” said Tony Pepper, CEO, Egress. “One of the biggest challenges organisations face is accurately identifying who the next source of compromise is – and why. By combining intelligence and analytics from integrated applications, companies can gain valuable insights across their entire cyber ecosystem, allowing them to focus on the risks that matter most.”
The announcement comes on the heels of significant achievements for both companies thus far in 2024. KnowBe4 recently announced its AI-native platform, Artificial Intelligence Defense Agents (AIDA), which incorporates advanced AI agents to power efficacy and speed. Recent notable awards include being recognized as a Top Software Winner by G2 and a winner of Energage’s Top Workplaces USA for 2024. Meanwhile, Egress launched its AI-powered Automated Abuse Mailbox in early April and received several award recognitions, including Security Innovation of the Year (Computing Security Excellence Awards), Best Email Security Solution, Best Data Leak Prevention Solution (SC Awards Europe) and Best Place to Work in the UK (Great Places to Work 2024).
The transaction is expected to close in the coming months subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
Egress is backed by FTV Capital and AlbionVC. Citi served as exclusive financial advisor to Egress and Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP served as legal counsel to Egress.

 

Westcoast acquires Spire Technology

Westcoast has acquired UK IT components distributor Spire Technology.  The deal for 100% of the share capital has been completed and Spire Technology will form part of the Westcoast Group working alongside Westcoast Ltd – the UK’s largest IT distributor.
“There are so many benefits to the combination of Spire and Westcoast for both companies, vendors, UK resellers and employees.  Firstly, it will add significantly to Westcoast’s components portfolio hence Spire will become the Group’s main components pillar – with full access to all the customers, finance and tools that make Westcoast such a strong distributor in the UK and Europe.”
“Both businesses emphasise their agility and flexibility when it comes to speed of decision making and performance as well as a strong customer intimacy.  This cultural fit will help realise immediate mutual opportunities,” said Alex Tatham, executive director at Westcoast.
Spire Technology is based in Verwood, Dorset.  The company has a strong team ethos with outstanding knowledge of the components market, great vendor partnerships and a loyal customer base.  “Westcoast can only help grow our business,” commented John Appleton, Spire CEO, “and in return we can bring a range of accretive components vendors to Westcoast’s significant and diverse customer base.  We are delighted that we can form part of Britain’s largest privately owned technology group and can use its considerable resources to accelerate our growth.”

 

New Logi AI Prompt Builder software: fast, fluent, fluid AI access, for free 

Logitech has launched a free new tool that helps prompt Open AI’s ChatGPT faster and more fluently while staying in the flow of work. Logi AI Prompt Builder is a software window that pops up via the Logi Options+ app at the touch of a button, transforming Logitech’s keyboard and mouse into a shortcut to the power of AI.
“As the bridge between people and their digital experiences, Logitech has a critical role to play in the evolution of AI, both with new innovation and our existing portfolio,” said Delphine Donné, general manager of the personal workspace business at Logitech. “New Logi AI Prompt Builder is a shortcut to AI fluency for anyone with a Logitech mouse or keyboard compatible with Logi Options+ software who wants easily to access AI’s limitless potential. It is just one example of Logitech’s innovation around the many opportunities AI offers. ChatGPT alone is seeing approximately 1.6 billion visits each month – a reflection of AI’s ability to enhance and accelerate people’s productivity and creativity.”
Logi AI Prompt Builder can be accessed by anyone with a Logitech keyboard or mouse supported by the English language version of the Logi Options+ app including Logitech MX, Ergo, Signature and Studio Series devices. Within the app, you can identify a shortcut key on your keyboard or a mouse button that will open and close the tool whenever you need.
The Logi AI Prompt Builder software window pops up, automatically capturing text you’ve selected to work with and offering pre-defined recipes of commonly used queries, such as
You can also customise your own queries, and define what kind of tone, style, complexity or length you want the final answer to be. This saves you time and clicks, with virtually no disruption to your workflow. For a demonstration of how it works, visit Logitech’s
Pricing and availability
The Logi AI Prompt Builder software window can be accessed for free by Windows and Mac users via the Logi Options+ app.

 

Lenovo launches ThinkCentre desktops powered by AMD Ryzen PRO 8000 Series

Lenovo has unveiled a selection of ThinkCentre desktops powered by AMD Ryzen PRO 8000 Series desktop processors with up to 16 TOPS (trillion operations per second) of integrated NPU capability dedicated to process AI workloads, including the performance focused ThinkCentre M75t Gen 5, the flexible ThinkCentre M75s Gen 5, and the compact ThinkCentre M75q Gen 5. Designed to meet the diverse needs of modern business, the ThinkCentre M75 Gen 5 family of desktops harnesses the AI capability of its component while optimising its energy efficiency to deliver impressive results.
“The AI PC era is already here and at Lenovo we are embracing it to unlock new possibilities,” said Sanjeev Menon, vice president and general manager, Worldwide Desktop Business in Intelligent Devices Group, Lenovo. “The need for businesses to integrate AI into their operations continues to grow and our ThinkCentre M75 family of desktops, with a strong and stable power supply, the ability to upgrade components when needed, and the space to expand memory and optimise thermal management are the ideal options to enhance productivity with AI without heavy investments. Lenovo and AMD have a long-standing partnership focused on delivering value to our customers and we know users will be delighted by the leap in performance of our new desktops.”
Designed for multitasking, the ThinkCentre M75t Gen 5 tower and ThinkCentre M75s Gen 5 small form factor desktops offer AI-accelerated power driven by an AMD Ryzen PRO 8000 Series desktop processor. Combined with an integrated graphics with AMD RDNA 3 technology, up to 64GB DDR5 (5600MHz) memory and up to 2 TB of Gen4 SSD storage1, both desktops deliver blazing speeds that makes it the ideal choice for daily commercial tasks like browsing, office, email, media and more, and to even breeze through even the most data-intensive tasks.
Smart and efficient, the ThinkCentre M75t Gen 5 and ThinkCentre M75s Gen 5 desktops become more dynamic thanks to Lenovo’s chip-level AI features, including power usage prioritisation to allocate power to the correct apps when you need it, and an AI-driven fan that optimises fan speed, so the system remains cool, and reduces noise levels. With Lenovo’s AI features, the desktops will maximise a video rendering software’s performance for content creators, increase fan speed during intense coding sessions, and even balance software performance when multitasking. The AI features continuously learn as you multitask, resulting in a smarter and more efficient workhorse as you use it.
Both desktops offer a flexible expansion slot for hardware additions, nine USB ports for easy connectivity and the ability to support up to four independent compatible displays. Content creators, engineers, artists and those looking for more graphic options will delight in the ThinkCentre M75t Gen 5 tower desktop’s ability to host either an AMD Radeon RX 550 4G or AMD Radeon RX 6600LE graphic card.
Compact enough to fit inside a shoe box, the ThinkCentre M75q Gen 5 is a tiny desktop with full-size performance designed to fit into virtually any location, including banking, healthcare and retail environments. Packing up to an AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 8700GE desktop processor, integrated graphics with AMD RDNA 3 technology and up to 64GB of dual-channel DDR5 (5200MHz) memory, this desktop provides next-level performance while remaining small enough to hide behind a monitor.
Despite its miniature size, the ThinkCentre M75q Gen 5 is still expandable, customisable and easily upgradable. It supports seven USB connections, boasts two Gen 4 SSDs, has built-in driver support for older OS versions, can connect to three compatible displays for maximum multitasking and features toolless access to the SSD and memory module for easy expansion when needed (cards sold separately).  For the most space-restricted environments, the ThinkCentre M75q Gen 5 can be mounted using a universal VESA mount to free up even more space.
The ThinkCentre M75 Gen 5 family of desktops offer reliable performance, they are eligible for optional Lenovo Premier Support Plus service, offering 24/7/365 peace of mind.  Resolve issues quickly with easy break/fix support accessing Lenovo expert engineers for a seamless remote fix, boosting productivity and device longevity; receive proactive and preventive alerts before issues arise; benefit from next business day onsite labour and parts prioritisation; enjoy Accidental Damage Protection for mishaps such as drink spills, and more.
For added security, the desktops are Secured-core PCs that come with the Microsoft Pluton security processor, offering the highest level of Windows protection. As a Windows Secured-core PC, the ThinkCentre M75 Gen 5 desktops aim to block physical attacks, protect down to the firmware level and offer extra security for even the most sensitive data.
The desktops are backed by Lenovo ThinkShield, a comprehensive end-to-end security solution that combines hardware and software to protect your data, comes with a dTPM 2.0 chip that encrypts passwords and data, a BIOS-based Smart USB protection and individual USB port disablement to help prevent unauthorised access via peripherals, and more. The ThinkCentre M75 Gen 5 family of desktops encourages businesses to innovate freely and explore the benefits of AI knowing that their data and information are protected.
Each system incorporates 85% and 95% PCC (Post-Consumer Content) plastic materials in the chassis and keyboard/mouse respectively. In addition to the use of recycled plastics, the packaging for the ThinkCentre M75 Gen 5 desktops features a thermal shell and bag made of 30% OBP (Ocean-Bound Plastic) and FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) carton that uses material from well-managed forests and recycled sources.
To enhance the capability of the ThinkCentre M75 Gen 5 desktops, Lenovo offers an optional Smart Cable for easy USB-A and USB-C connection to peripherals and even another laptop or tablet. Through the Smart Cable, users can control two devices using a single keyboard, mouse, or touchpad, edit data and documents on each device and even share screens.
 

 

Acer expands UK horizons with Bridgehead alliance

Bridgehead International is collaborating with Acer, which marks Acer’s commitment to supplying a diverse range of eco-friendly and cutting-edge products across the United Kingdom.
The product portfolio Acer is introducing in the UK includes a variety of new items such as eScooters, eBikes, power batteries, air purification systems, and 5G connectivity products. This move aligns with Acer’s dedication to providing consumers with sustainable and innovative solutions which enhance their daily lives.
Bridgehead will assume the pivotal role of specialist distributors for the upcoming product line and deliver the comprehensive go-to-market plan for each of the new Acer product categories.
Acer’s spokesperson, Darren Calow, new business development for Acer UK, shared insights on the collaboration, stating, “We sought a partner who shares our values and offers a proven track record in taking new innovations to market, and Bridgehead stood out for their transparent approach, rapid results ethos and their extensive network of channel partners.”
Paul McIntosh, founder and CEO of Bridgehead International Agency, expressed his enthusiasm about partnering with Acer and introducing their new products to the UK market. He emphasised the growing trend of ethical consumerism and highlighted the competitive advantage companies gain by prioritising sustainability. McIntosh said, “Consumers in the UK, and globally, are increasingly committed to ethical purchasing. Acer’s offering of high-quality and eco-conscious tech will definitely strike a chord with consumers in the UK. It’s wonderful pleasure for us to be working with such a great brand and helping to incubate the new tech categories across the Acer portfolio and bringing them to market here in the UK.”

 

Sol Distribution joins forces with Weblib to deliver digital solutions

Sol Distribution has eneterd into a distribution partnership with Weblib, a digital transformation specialist focusing on delivering solutions to a range of business-to-business and business-to-consumer clientele.
This partnership will see the addition of Weblib’s flagship products to Sol’s expanding digital portfolio. This includes ‘smilein’, a product that allows customers within the hospitality sector to choose and order food from their devices, ‘Smart WiFi’, ‘Ucopia’ and ‘Ucopia Cloud’ – all Weblib solutions for managing WiFi access and captive portals.
Charlie Dickinson, operations and logistics manager at Sol Distribution, said: “When we first came across Weblib, it seemed like an ideal fit. As we strive to expand our portfolio, especially in software solutions, partnering with Weblib was a natural progression. This partnership is a significant step towards realising our vision of delivering a comprehensive suite of IT solutions, tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients. We’re looking forward to what comes next.”
Jason Goody, channel director UKI at Weblib, added: “Collaborating with Sol Distribution is a key moment for us. With Sol’s expertise and knowledge of the IT channel network across the UK and Europe, we’re excited to see what further growth opportunities may arise.”

 

Lexmark launches A3 printers and MFPs

Lexmark has launched the Lexmark 9-Series, a family of Lexmark-designed A3 colour printers and multifunction products (MFPs) that boldly resets the industry standard.
Built by evolving Lexmark’s renowned A4 technology, the 9-Series is squarely focused on delivering versatility, simplicity and sustainability. The company started with its award-winning A4 technology and scaled it up through years of development, testing and innovation. The result is a line of fully featured, highly sophisticated A3 devices that are easy to use, manage, service and feel good about.
“With the introduction of our new internally developed A3 platform, the Lexmark 9-Series offers all the benefits of a simpler A4 device in a fully featured A3 package,” said Melanie Hudson, Lexmark senior vice president and chief commercial officer. “And of course, the line retains our commitment to products, services and solutions that are reliable, durable, cost-saving and Secure by Design.”
The Lexmark 9-Series is composed of eight models: the Lexmark CX963, CX962, CX961, CS963, CX833, CX951, CX950 and MX953.
The series offers a broad range of media size support (A6 to SRA3), high-volume duty cycles, a common set of modular paper-handling options, finishing capabilities and professional colour features including Pantone calibration.
Its interface streamlines workflows by providing simple instructions and prompts. For routine maintenance, toner cartridges can be replaced with one hand, easily understood visual cues are displayed, and serviceable areas are easy to access and identify.
The series’ post-consumer recycled (PCR) content is 56% by weight for all base-model MFPs and 73% by weight for the line’s base-model printer, based on IEEE calculation procedures — figures that lead the industry. * The space-saving, energy-efficient design helps reduce the carbon footprint. The 9-Series is designed and built to last seven years or more. Having few components helps reduce the likelihood of technical failure while also minimising the service time required for repairs and maintenance. Experienced technicians can perform the 10 most common service actions, even highly complex tasks, in less than 15 minutes, according to Lexmark testing.
The entire line of devices has received Energy Star certification; EPEAT certification is pending. And all this comes from a company that technology analyst firm Quocirca named a leader in sustainability, noting that Lexmark “sets a remarkable standard in the industry.”
Models available starting in June
The Lexmark CX963, CX962, CX961, CS963 and CX833 models are scheduled to be available in June. The Lexmark CX951, CX950 and MX953 models are scheduled to be available in the first quarter of 2025.
Models offered for business solutions dealers
Six new MFPs specifically designed for business solutions dealers will also be available through authorised solution providers. The Lexmark XC9655, XC9645, XC9635 and XC8355 will be available in June. The Lexmark XC9535 and XC9525 are scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2025.

 

Arrow Electronics accelerates Copilot for Microsoft 365 through ArrowSphere Cloud

Arrow Electronics is providing Copilot for Microsoft 365 via ArrowSphere Cloud, making it readily available to channel partners in EMEA. It is also delivering a dedicated programme of enablement designed to help resellers accelerate the opportunity with Copilot.
Launched in Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program in January, Copilot for Microsoft 365 uses the power of generative AI and natural language processing to boost user productivity and creativity.
As a Microsoft distributor in more than 20 European countries, Arrow has over 300 Copilot-certified specialists working locally to support channel partners with their Copilot implementations. Each one is fully licenced for Copilot for Microsoft 365 to ensure they have first-hand experience of the impact it can make and to help resellers position Copilot to customers so they can grow their business.
Understanding the importance of data security and compliance, these specialists are working with customers to identify the prerequisites for a smooth and secure Copilot introduction, giving them the opportunity to benefit from its capabilities without compromising data integrity.
Brendan Murphy, global director of public cloud at Arrow, said, “As Copilot for Microsoft 365 users ourselves, we know the impact it can make. We use our hands-on experience to help our resellers build their skills and unlock the potential of the platform. We invested significant time pre-launch, working with Microsoft to make sure we were ready to go on day one.  Our resellers didn’t waste any time, transacting within the first hour.
“To support the channel, Arrow hosted a global livestream on launch day across several social media platforms. The enablement is continuing with a wide range of global and local training initiatives, including webinars such as, “Unlocking the partner opportunity of Copilot for Microsoft 365.”
Copilot for Microsoft 365 can be sourced and activated through ArrowSphere Cloud, Arrow’s cloud delivery and management platform. Channel partners can also use the new security dashboard to access an aggregated view of their customers’ security posture, quickly identifying any threats.
In 2023 Arrow was awarded Microsoft Partner of the Year in the Indirect Provider category for both Western Europe and France.

 

Van Tieghem steps up as director of technical sales support at PPDS

PPDS has promoted of experienced AV engineer, Jan Van Tieghem, as its new director of technical sales support.
Based in Ghent, with an EMEA remit, Jan is one of the most qualified and skilled professionals in his field, with an AV career spanning more than 20 years, 15 of which have been devoted exclusively to supporting the evolution, development, and success of Philips Professional Displays on a global scale.
A loyal, long serving and valued team member, Jan’s association with Philips first began in 2006 when he joined the company as a System Validation Engineer. Since then, Jan’s knowledge and skillset have continued to expand and evolve through a number of important team leadership positions, supporting PPDS’ strategy to deliver total solutions across the market verticals and through the full spectrum of display solutions.
Jan will now lead support teams across all PPDS product ranges – digital signage including ePaper, interactive displays, videowalls, dvLED, and professional TVs – located in the company’s innovation centre in Ghent, Belgium, and throughout all regions in EMEA, including Benelux, CEE, DACH, France, Iberia, Italy, the Nordics, SEE, and UK and Ireland.
Service and support
As director of technical sales support, Jan’s key responsibilities will include supporting B2B sales activities (pre- and post-sales), working with new and existing partners for final validation of new software releases on all product platforms, ensuring EMEA market compliance, and assisting customers in delivering hands-on, live, and video training for seamless and successful installation and project outcomes.
Reinforcing PPDS’ unparalleled commitment to partners and customers, Jan and his team will also provide dedicated support for customers in mastering the application of PPDS’ products, services, and solutions; assisting with integration for projects; defining best configurations for tailored needs, simulating and testing customers setups, and solving any interface or compatibility issues.
Discussing his new role at PPDS, Jan said: “I am hugely excited to have been given the opportunity and responsibility to lead the EMEA technical sales support team. The transformation and growth of the business over the past 15 years have been extraordinary, evolving from a traditional manufacturer of displays to one that now offers one of the industry’s most complete choice of total solutions, with software – developed in-house and with third-party providers – now a key strategic focus.
“We will continue to build upon the achievements of the team and work hard to ensure we lead from the front to bring the world’s best support and solutions to our partners and customers. It’s a great new challenge and I’m very much looking forward to the journey ahead.”