Enhancing Tenant Experiences, Smart Tech Security, and IT Sustainability

Welcome to this month's Network Connections. In this edition, we highlight upcoming events, explore how IT is enhancing tenant experiences in commercial property, and discuss maintaining network security while leveraging smart technologies. Our success story features the University of Nottingham Innovation Park (UNIP). We also discuss IT sustainability and a promising new wireless communication technology. So, grab your beverage of choice and enjoy our latest news.

Upcoming Events

UKSPA 40th Anniversary Conference

As a proud member of UKSPA - The United Kingdom Science Park Association , Modern Networks is pleased to announce our silver sponsorship of the UKSPA 40th Anniversary Conference. This event celebrates four decades of fostering innovation with a dynamic lineup of activities, including tours, networking opportunities, and a Gala Awards Dinner. The conference will be held at The Slate, 英国华威大学 from 16-18 October. It features plenary and parallel sessions on themes such as digital innovation, sustainability, and the future of work. As October is National Cyber Security Month, Modern Networks will be emphasising the importance of cybersecurity and resilience during the event. To learn more about the event or to register, visit: https://www.ukspa.org.uk/ukspa40/

Commercial Property News

The Role of IT in Enhancing the Tenant Experience

Information Technology is revolutionising the tenant experience in commercial real estate. High-speed internet connectivity is no longer a luxury but a business necessity, enabling seamless access to cloud services, video conferencing, and real-time data exchange. This connectivity underpins the productivity of businesses, ensuring that tenants can work efficiently and without interruption.

Furthermore, cyber resilience is critical in safeguarding tenant operations. Robust IT infrastructure and proactive cybersecurity measures are essential to protect sensitive data and maintain trust. By integrating smart building technologies, property managers can offer a secure, connected environment that helps attract and retain tenants but also adds value to the commercial property by fostering a dynamic and modern workplace.

?Modern Networks can support both WiredScore and SmartScore certifications, which demonstrate a building's digital connectivity and overall technological readiness for tenants. Contact us today to learn more.

Science Parks Focus

Success Story: How Modern Networks Transformed Connectivity at UNIP

The University of Nottingham Innovation Park (UNIP) partnered with Modern Networks and Jisc to address connectivity challenges by leveraging the JANET network, resulting in a scalable, cost-efficient, and high-speed internet solution. This collaboration enhanced connectivity and simplified administration. It also fostered a collaborative environment, making the project a great model for businesses seeking to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and support growth.

To read the full story and download the PDF, visit: https://bit.ly/3ApmcP7

Cybersecurity Corner

Securing Smart Buildings for Tenants and Managing Agents

Securing a smart office building requires a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity that protects both the tenants and the management company. Start with a robust network security system, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities. Implement strong access control measures, such as multi-factor authentication and encrypted key cards, to ensure that only authorised personnel can access sensitive areas.

Regularly update all software and firmware, patch security vulnerabilities immediately, and educate tenants and staff on cybersecurity best practices, such as recognising phishing attempts and safeguarding personal information. Additionally, consider employing a dedicated cybersecurity team to monitor the network for suspicious activity and respond to incidents promptly. By integrating these safeguards, a smart office building can provide a secure environment that supports the safety and privacy of all its occupants.

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month. Modern Network will be participating in the initiative to encourage cybersecurity awareness and safe online practices. Visit our website to learn more about our cyber security services.

Sustainability Matters

Working Towards More Sustainable IT

Sustainable IT is increasingly becoming a focal point for businesses globally. The drive towards sustainability is not just a response to environmental concerns but also a strategic move to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve brand reputation. Companies are recognising the transformative power of technology in achieving sustainability goals, with over half of organisations believing in its potential.

Today, businesses are not only finding it economically sensible but also environmentally important to adopt practices that ensure energy efficiency, waste reduction, and a smaller carbon footprint. The integration of IoT technologies in smart buildings exemplifies this shift, enabling precise monitoring and reduction of energy usage. Furthermore, the recycling of electronic waste emerges as a critical step towards mitigating technology's environmental impact, with initiatives like The Royal Mint's extraction of gold from e-waste, for example.

While these practices contribute to sustainability, it's important to acknowledge the energy demands of new technologies like AI and generative AI with large language models (LLMs) that rival those of bitcoin mining. This reality presents a challenge for tech giants, whose carbon footprints have grown, diverging from their planned carbon reduction targets. Despite this, the industry has made commendable progress in data centre efficiency through the deployment of more efficient hardware, advanced cooling systems, and a transition to cloud-based and hyperscale data centres. These advancements, coupled with the adoption of renewable energy sources, strengthen the industry's commitment to a more sustainable future.

Technology Spotlight

RIS: A Promising Technology for Future Wireless Systems

Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) are like high-tech mirrors for wireless signals, allowing them to be directed and controlled with precision. This technology can manipulate how radio waves travel, improving communication by reducing dead zones and enhancing signal strength without needing more antennas. This means better connectivity with lower energy costs for businesses. By precisely directing signals, RIS could make it harder for unauthorised users to intercept data, enhancing the security of wireless communications. However, while RIS can enhance security, it could also be used by malicious actors to focus signals on specific targets, making eavesdropping easier. Additionally, improperly configured RIS could inadvertently direct signals to unintended recipients, leading to potential data leaks.

Potentially, RIS could benefit industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, retail, energy, public safety, and entertainment by enhancing connectivity, efficiency, and performance. However, it could also introduce new security risks that would need to be carefully managed. Proper implementation and robust security measures will be essential to maximise the benefits while minimising the risks.

Have Your Say

If you have any questions or comments about anything in this month's newsletter, please let us know. Similarly, if you'd like to suggest a topic for a future edition, drop it in the comments section.

That's all for this month. If you've found this newsletter informative, follow us on LinkedIn Modern Networks Ltd . Whether it's transforming commercial properties to attract more tenants or optimising your business systems to be more environmentally friendly, we’re dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Until next time, stay safe and connected.

The Modern Networks Team

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