Hosted.co.uk Reviews

Based on looking at the website, Hosted.co.uk appears to be a B2B technology service provider specializing in security, IT cloud solutions, and telecommunications. They aim to be a “complete technology provider” for businesses, offering a range of services from cybersecurity and managed IT infrastructure to business mobiles and unified communications. The site highlights their long-standing partnerships, such as with Vodafone UK, and emphasizes their focus on security as a core component of all their recommended solutions. While the site provides a good overview of their offerings, a deeper dive into actual user experiences and specific performance metrics would provide a more comprehensive review for businesses considering their services.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Hosted.co.uk Review & First Look

Website Navigation and User Experience

The navigation on Hosted.co.uk is intuitive and straightforward.

Key service areas are clearly laid out in the main menu, allowing visitors to quickly access information on security, cloud solutions, and telecoms.

• Ease of Use: The site is easy to navigate, with a logical flow that guides users through their offerings.
• Information Accessibility: Important details about their services, case studies, and contact information are readily accessible.
• Visual Appeal: The design is modern and professional, utilizing clean layouts and relevant imagery. The inclusion of client testimonials and case studies upfront aims to build immediate credibility.

Initial Impressions of Service Offerings

Hosted.co.uk positions itself as a strategic partner rather than just a vendor.

Their emphasis on “the circle of security” suggests an integrated approach where security isn’t an afterthought but a foundational element across all services.

• Security Focus: A strong emphasis on cybersecurity, including SASE, Dark Web monitoring, and Cyber Essentials, suggests a robust approach to protecting client data.
• Comprehensive IT Cloud: Offerings like IaaS, PaaS, DaaS, and Microsoft 365/Azure management indicate a full suite of cloud services designed for modern business operations.
• Integrated Telecoms: Business mobiles, IoT, CCaaS, and UCaaS demonstrate their capacity to handle complex communication needs, vital for connectivity and collaboration.

Hosted.co.uk Features

Hosted.co.uk offers a robust set of features across its three core pillars: Security, IT Cloud, and Telecoms. Virtualstaff.ph Reviews

These features are designed to provide comprehensive technological support for businesses, ensuring operational efficiency, data protection, and seamless communication.

Security Features

Security is positioned as a core principle for Hosted.co.uk, underpinning all their solutions.

• SASE Secure Access Service Edge: This is a key offering, integrating network security functions like firewalls, secure web gateways, zero-trust network access with WAN capabilities to support secure access for remote workers and distributed organizations.
  • Top 5 Benefits of SASE: The website highlights benefits such as improved security posture, simplified management, enhanced performance, cost reduction, and better user experience.
  • What SASE Isn’t: This section clarifies misconceptions about SASE, helping potential clients understand its true scope and advantages.
• Dark Web Monitoring: Proactive monitoring of the dark web to detect if company credentials or sensitive data have been compromised. This allows businesses to take immediate action to mitigate risks.
• Cyber Protection: Comprehensive solutions designed to protect against various cyber threats, including malware, ransomware, phishing, and denial-of-service attacks.
• Cyber Essentials / CE+: Assistance with achieving Cyber Essentials certification, a government-backed scheme that helps organizations protect themselves against a range of common cyber attacks. This demonstrates a commitment to foundational cybersecurity practices.

IT Cloud Features

Hosted.co.uk provides a spectrum of cloud services, designed to enhance scalability, flexibility, and operational efficiency for businesses of all sizes.

Their offerings cover the full lifecycle of cloud adoption and management.

• Managed I.T.: Comprehensive management of a business’s IT infrastructure, ensuring systems are running optimally, securely, and efficiently. This offloads the burden of IT management from in-house teams.
• Infrastructure As A Service IaaS: Provides virtualized computing resources over the internet, allowing businesses to run their applications without managing the underlying hardware.
• Platform As A Service PaaS: Offers a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications without the complexity of building and maintaining the infrastructure typically associated with developing and launching an app.
• Desktop As A Service DaaS: Delivers virtual desktops to users over the internet, enabling secure and flexible access to company applications and data from any device, anywhere.
• Endpoint Management: Centralized management and security of all endpoint devices laptops, desktops, mobile devices used within an organization.
• Server Management: Ensures the optimal performance, security, and reliability of business servers, including patching, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
• Microsoft 365 & Microsoft Azure: Expertise in deploying, managing, and optimizing Microsoft’s powerful cloud productivity and cloud computing platforms, integrating them seamlessly into business operations.
• Cloud Backup & Disaster Recovery: Solutions to ensure business continuity by securely backing up critical data to the cloud and enabling rapid recovery in the event of a system failure or disaster.

Telecoms Features

The telecoms offerings from Hosted.co.uk are geared towards modernizing business communication, enhancing collaboration, and ensuring reliable connectivity. Mapmymole.com Reviews

• Business Mobiles: Provides tailored mobile solutions for businesses, including device procurement, plan management, and integration with existing communication systems.
• IoT Internet of Things: Solutions that leverage IoT technology to gather data, automate processes, and enhance operational intelligence across various industries.
• CCaaS Contact Centre as a Service: Cloud-based contact center solutions that enable businesses to manage customer interactions across multiple channels voice, email, chat efficiently and effectively.
• UCaaS Unified Communications as a Service: Integrates various communication channels voice, video, messaging, conferencing into a single platform, streamlining collaboration and improving productivity.
• Collaboration Tools: Services that facilitate seamless teamwork, including video conferencing, instant messaging, and shared document platforms.

These features collectively demonstrate Hosted.co.uk’s commitment to providing a holistic technology ecosystem for businesses, addressing their needs from foundational security to advanced cloud and communication solutions.

The integration of these services under one provider aims to simplify IT management and ensure consistency in service delivery.

Hosted.co.uk Pros & Cons

When considering a technology partner like Hosted.co.uk, it’s essential to weigh the potential advantages against any potential drawbacks.

Based on the information presented on their website, we can identify several key pros and cons for businesses.

Pros

Hosted.co.uk appears to offer significant advantages for businesses seeking comprehensive IT, security, and telecom solutions. Serskillinter.com Reviews

Their approach emphasizes integration, expertise, and a client-centric model.

• Comprehensive Service Offering: One of the most significant advantages is their ability to provide a “complete technology provider” solution. By integrating security, IT cloud, and telecoms, businesses can potentially streamline their vendor relationships and achieve better synergy across their technology stack. This reduces the complexity of managing multiple providers.
  • Single Point of Contact: Having one partner for diverse tech needs simplifies troubleshooting and project management.
  • Integrated Solutions: Services are designed to work together, improving overall system performance and security.
• Strong Emphasis on Security: In an age of escalating cyber threats, Hosted.co.uk’s “circle of security” approach is a major plus. Their focus on SASE, Dark Web monitoring, and Cyber Essentials demonstrates a proactive and robust security posture.
  • Proactive Threat Mitigation: Services like Dark Web monitoring help identify potential breaches before they cause significant damage.
  • Compliance Support: Assistance with Cyber Essentials can help businesses meet regulatory and industry security standards.
• Extensive Experience and Expertise: The website highlights over 50 years of collective experience among their specialists. This depth of knowledge can be invaluable for businesses navigating complex technological challenges.
  • Expert Guidance: Clients can benefit from seasoned professionals who understand the nuances of business technology.
  • Proven Track Record: Testimonials from companies like Vodafone UK lend credibility to their long-standing partnerships and successful project deliveries.
• Client Testimonials and Case Studies: The prominent display of positive testimonials from diverse clients, including high-profile ones like Vodafone UK, provides social proof of their service quality and reliability. Case studies, such as the Starbucks security platform redefinition, offer tangible examples of their capabilities.
  • Trust and Credibility: Real-world examples and endorsements build confidence in their services.
  • Problem-Solving Capabilities: Case studies demonstrate their ability to tackle complex business problems with innovative solutions.
• Focus on Business Continuity: Services like Cloud Backup and Disaster Recovery are critical for ensuring business operations can continue even in the face of unforeseen disruptions. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and data loss.
  • Reduced Risk: Helps businesses prepare for and recover from technological failures or cyberattacks.
  • Data Integrity: Secure backup solutions protect valuable business data.

Cons

While Hosted.co.uk presents a strong offering, there are a few areas where potential clients might seek more clarity or consider alternative approaches.

• Pricing Transparency: The website does not provide specific pricing details for its services. This is common for B2B solutions of this nature, as pricing often depends on the scale, complexity, and specific requirements of each client. However, it means businesses must engage in a direct consultation to understand the cost implications fully.
  • Requires Direct Consultation: Businesses need to invest time in discovery calls to get quotes.
  • Potential for Budget Surprises: Without clear initial pricing, it can be challenging for businesses to budget accurately from the outset.
• Lack of Direct Customer Reviews/Forums: While the website features testimonials, there isn’t an easily accessible section for independent customer reviews or community forums. This makes it harder for prospective clients to gauge a wider range of user experiences or common issues that might arise.
  • Limited External Validation: Relying solely on curated testimonials may not provide a complete picture of customer satisfaction.
  • Difficulty in Peer-to-Peer Insights: No platform for businesses to share their experiences with each other.
• Reliance on Established Relationships: While testimonials from large enterprises like Vodafone are impressive, smaller businesses might wonder if they will receive the same level of dedicated attention and tailored solutions. The language on the site seems geared towards larger corporate clients.
  • Perception of Scale: Smaller businesses might feel their needs are less prioritized.
  • Customization Concerns: Whether their solutions are equally flexible for businesses with limited IT budgets or less complex needs.
• Proprietary Solutions vs. Open Source/Vendor Agnostic: The website highlights expertise with Microsoft products M365, Azure, which is excellent for businesses already in that ecosystem. However, for companies committed to open-source solutions or other cloud providers, it’s not immediately clear how flexible Hosted.co.uk is in supporting diverse technological environments.
  • Potential Vendor Lock-in: Businesses may feel pushed towards specific technologies.
  • Limited Diversification: May not be ideal for organizations seeking a multi-cloud or highly customized open-source strategy.

Understanding these pros and cons will help businesses make a more informed decision about whether Hosted.co.uk is the right technology partner for their specific needs and objectives.

Hosted.co.uk Alternatives

When seeking a comprehensive technology partner, exploring alternatives to Hosted.co.uk can provide valuable insights and ensure you find the best fit for your specific business needs.

The market for IT cloud, security, and telecoms services is vast, with many providers offering similar or specialized solutions. Ariston-uk.com Reviews

Here are some categories of alternatives and examples, based on common offerings in the UK market.

Managed Service Providers MSPs

Many MSPs offer a broad range of services similar to Hosted.co.uk, covering IT support, cloud management, and cybersecurity.

They often provide a tailored approach for businesses of varying sizes.

• Examples:
  • Computacenter: A large European IT infrastructure services provider that offers end-to-end solutions, including managed services, cloud, and cybersecurity. They work with both public and private sector clients.
  • SCC Solutions for Computing: Another major European IT services provider, SCC offers comprehensive managed services, data center solutions, security, and digital workspace services.
  • Bytes Technology Group: A UK-based IT provider focusing on software, hardware, and services, including cloud, security, and managed services. They are known for their strong partnerships with major tech vendors.

Cloud Service Specialists

If your primary need is robust cloud infrastructure and management, dedicated cloud service providers or specialized consultants might be a better fit, especially if you have a specific cloud platform preference e.g., AWS, Google Cloud.

*   Cloudreach an Atos company: A global cloud-native services firm specializing in public cloud adoption and transformation across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. They offer strategy, migration, and managed services.
*   Rackspace Technology: Provides end-to-end multicloud technology services, including advisory, migration, and managed services for various cloud platforms.
*   UK-based Azure/AWS/GCP Partners: Many smaller, highly specialized consultancies focus exclusively on one major cloud platform, offering deep expertise and tailored solutions for that environment.

Cybersecurity Firms

For businesses whose foremost concern is cybersecurity, a dedicated cybersecurity firm might offer more in-depth and specialized protection than a general technology provider. Wildehill.co.uk Reviews

*   NCC Group: A global expert in cybersecurity and risk mitigation, offering services like penetration testing, incident response, and managed security services.
*   BT Security: As part of British Telecom, BT Security offers a wide range of cybersecurity solutions for businesses, leveraging their extensive network infrastructure.
*   Kroll: While known for broader risk and financial advisory, Kroll also has a robust cybersecurity practice offering incident response, digital forensics, and proactive security services.

Telecommunications Providers

If your business’s main requirement is advanced telecom solutions, such as UCaaS, CCaaS, or business mobiles, a pure-play telecom provider might offer more competitive pricing or specific features tailored to communication needs.

*   Vodafone Business: A direct competitor in the business telecoms space, offering business mobiles, fixed-line services, IoT solutions, and unified communications. Notably, Vodafone UK is a client of Hosted.co.uk, illustrating the ecosystem.
*   BT Business: Provides a full suite of telecom services, including business broadband, phone lines, mobile, and cloud-based communication solutions.
*   Gamma Communications: A leading UK-based provider of UCaaS, CCaaS, SIP trunking, and other cloud communication services, specifically targeting the business market.

Industry-Specific IT Consultancies

Some businesses benefit from partners who have deep expertise within their specific industry, understanding regulatory compliance, unique operational challenges, and industry-specific software.

• Examples: These vary widely by sector
  • HealthTech IT Consultancies: Specialized firms focusing on IT solutions for healthcare providers, understanding NHS frameworks, data security e.g., GDPR, Caldicott, and electronic health records.
  • FinTech IT Consultancies: Firms with expertise in IT infrastructure, security, and compliance for financial services, understanding FCA regulations, payment processing, and high-frequency trading systems.

When evaluating alternatives, consider factors such as:

• Your specific business size and budget: Larger enterprises might prefer global providers, while SMBs might find more personalized service from smaller, local MSPs.
• The criticality of each service area: Do you need a holistic partner, or is one area e.g., cybersecurity significantly more important than others?
• Preferred technology stack: Are you an all-Microsoft shop, or do you require multi-cloud or open-source expertise?
• Customer support and service level agreements SLAs: What level of responsiveness and guaranteed uptime do you require?
• Industry compliance requirements: Does the provider have experience with the specific regulations relevant to your sector?

By systematically comparing Hosted.co.uk against these types of alternatives, businesses can make a well-informed decision that aligns with their strategic objectives and operational needs.

Hosted.co.uk Pricing

Based on a thorough review of the Hosted.co.uk website, it is clear that they do not publish explicit pricing details for their services. This approach is standard practice for B2B technology solution providers, especially those offering complex, customized services like managed IT, advanced cybersecurity, and integrated telecommunications. Apostille24.se Reviews

Why No Public Pricing?

There are several strategic reasons why Hosted.co.uk, and similar enterprise-focused tech companies, opt not to display fixed pricing on their website:

• Customized Solutions: Their services are not off-the-shelf products. They are tailored to the unique needs, scale, and existing infrastructure of each business. A small startup will have vastly different requirements and budgets than a large enterprise like Vodafone.
• Scope Variability: The scope of a project can vary wildly. For instance, a cloud migration project for a small business will differ significantly from a complex multi-cloud strategy for a multinational corporation. Each service component e.g., specific SASE features, number of managed endpoints, volume of cloud storage, number of UCaaS licenses contributes to the overall cost.
• Value-Based Pricing: Rather than being purely cost-driven, their pricing is likely value-based. This means they assess the tangible benefits and ROI their solutions will provide to a specific client and price accordingly.
• Consultative Sales Approach: The absence of public pricing necessitates a direct conversation with their sales or solutions team. This allows Hosted.co.uk to engage in a consultative sales process, understand a client’s challenges deeply, and propose solutions that genuinely address those pain points, leading to a more effective and tailored proposal.

How to Obtain Pricing Information

For businesses interested in Hosted.co.uk’s services, the process for obtaining pricing will invariably involve a direct engagement with their team.

The website prominently features a “Schedule A Call” option, which is the primary gateway for this.

1. Initial Consultation/Discovery Call: The first step would be to schedule an introductory call. During this call, Hosted.co.uk’s team will likely:
   • Identify your specific needs across security, cloud, and telecoms.
   • Discuss your business objectives and desired outcomes.
   • Assess the scale of your operations e.g., number of employees, locations, data volume.
2. Needs Assessment and Proposal Development: Based on the information gathered, their experts will then formulate a tailored solution. This might involve:
   • A detailed proposal outlining the recommended services and their scope.
   • Service Level Agreements SLAs that define performance guarantees and support levels.
   • A breakdown of the proposed costs, which could be structured in various ways e.g., per user, per device, per project, monthly recurring fee.
3. Quotation: Finally, they will provide a formal quotation based on the customized solution. This quote would reflect the specific combination of services, the required level of support, and any implementation costs.

What to Expect Regarding Cost Structure

While exact figures are unavailable, typical cost structures for such services often include:

• Monthly Recurring Fees MRR: For ongoing managed services, cloud subscriptions e.g., Microsoft 365 licenses, and telecom services. This is often calculated per user, per endpoint, or per service module.
• One-time Setup/Implementation Fees: For initial deployments, migrations e.g., cloud migration, system integration, and complex project kick-offs.
• Usage-Based Charges: For certain cloud resources e.g., data transfer, storage, compute instances that might fluctuate based on consumption.
• Consultancy Fees: For specialized advisory services or custom development work.

Data Point Reference General Industry Averages: While Hosted.co.uk’s specific pricing is not public, general industry data for similar comprehensive managed IT and security services for SMBs in the UK can range significantly. For a small-to-medium business SMB with 20-50 employees requiring full managed IT support, cybersecurity, and basic cloud/telecoms, costs could typically range from £1,500 to £5,000+ per month, depending heavily on the complexity, desired response times, and specific technologies deployed. For larger enterprises, these figures can easily scale into tens of thousands of pounds monthly, particularly for advanced SASE deployments, extensive cloud infrastructure management, and high-volume contact center solutions. Goldcar.gr Reviews

Businesses should prepare to have a detailed discussion about their requirements and budget expectations to receive an accurate and relevant quote from Hosted.co.uk.

How to Cancel Hosted.co.uk Subscription

Canceling a subscription with a B2B technology service provider like Hosted.co.uk typically involves a formal process, as these are not usually simple click-to-cancel consumer subscriptions.

Given the nature of their services managed IT, complex security, telecoms, the cancellation process will likely be governed by the terms outlined in your service agreement or contract.

General Steps for Cancellation

While Hosted.co.uk’s website doesn’t explicitly detail a cancellation process which is common for B2B services, here are the likely steps based on industry best practices for managed service providers:

1. Review Your Contract/Service Level Agreement SLA:
   • Key Information: This is the most crucial first step. Your contract with Hosted.co.uk will contain specific clauses regarding termination. Look for sections on “Term and Termination,” “Notice Period,” “Early Termination Fees,” and “Data Offboarding.”
   • Notice Period: Most B2B contracts require a formal written notice period e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days before the desired cancellation date. This allows both parties to manage the transition smoothly.
   • Renewal Terms: Check if your contract has an auto-renewal clause and the deadline for opting out of renewal.
   • Financial Obligations: Understand any outstanding payments or potential early termination fees if you are canceling before the contract’s agreed-upon term.
2. Formal Written Notification:
   • Method: Send a formal written notice of your intent to cancel. This should typically be sent via email to your dedicated account manager or a specified contact, and often via certified mail to their official business address for documented proof.
   • Content: Clearly state your company’s name, account number if applicable, the services you wish to cancel, and the effective date of cancellation. Reference the relevant clauses in your contract.
3. Engage Your Account Manager/Support Team:
   • Discussion: Reach out to your dedicated account manager or their customer support team. They will likely want to understand the reasons for your cancellation and discuss the offboarding process.
   • Confirmation: Request written confirmation that your cancellation request has been received and processed, including the confirmed termination date.
4. Data Offboarding and Transition Plan:
   • Data Retrieval: Discuss how you will retrieve your data from their systems e.g., cloud backups, server data. Hosted.co.uk, as a managed IT provider, will hold significant amounts of your business data. Ensure a clear plan for data handover, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR.
   • Service Transition: If you are migrating to a new provider, coordinate the transition process carefully to minimize downtime. This might involve transferring domain names, cloud instances, or telecom lines. Hosted.co.uk should provide reasonable assistance in this handover, as per your contract.
   • Decommissioning: Confirm the process for decommissioning any hardware or software managed by Hosted.co.uk that was specific to your services.
5. Final Billing and Account Closure:
   • Outstanding Invoices: Ensure all outstanding invoices are settled.
   • Final Statement: Request a final statement of account to confirm that your financial obligations have been met and the account is officially closed.

Contact Information for Cancellation

While the website does not explicitly list a cancellation department, the “Contact” page and the “Schedule a Call” option are the initial points of entry. Trusteeglobal.eu Reviews

• Email: Look for a general inquiries or support email address on their “Contact” page.
• Phone: Call their main business line as listed on their website to speak with a representative who can direct your request to the appropriate department e.g., account management or contracts.
• Account Manager: If you are an existing client, your assigned account manager is your primary contact for all service-related queries, including cancellations.

Important Considerations:

• Timing: Be mindful of your contract’s term and notice period to avoid unexpected fees or service disruptions.
• Documentation: Keep meticulous records of all communication, including dates, times, names of representatives, and copies of all written correspondence.
• Data Security: Prioritize data security and integrity during the offboarding process. Ensure all sensitive information is securely transferred and purged from their systems once the contract is concluded.

In summary, canceling with Hosted.co.uk requires a formal, contract-driven approach, typically involving written notice, coordination with your account manager, and a clear plan for data offboarding and service transition.

Hosted.co.uk vs. Competitors

When a business evaluates Hosted.co.uk, it’s often against a backdrop of numerous competitors in the UK IT and telecom services market.

These rivals range from large, multinational corporations to specialized local firms.

Understanding how Hosted.co.uk stacks up requires comparing their core strengths and offerings against the common approaches of other players. Perkinsgeorgemawer.co.uk Reviews

Hosted.co.uk’s Differentiating Factors

Based on their website, Hosted.co.uk seems to emphasize:

• Integrated Approach: Their “complete technology provider” model, combining security, IT cloud, and telecoms under one umbrella, is a significant differentiator. Many competitors might specialize in just one or two of these areas, requiring businesses to manage multiple vendors.
  • Benefit: Simplifies vendor management, potentially leads to better integration between services, and a single point of contact for diverse tech needs.
• Deep Experience and Relationships: The claim of “50 years’ experience” and long-standing partnerships e.g., Vodafone UK for 25+ years suggests stability and a proven track record. This level of longevity and trust is not something all competitors can boast.
  • Benefit: Implies reliability, stability, and an understanding of complex enterprise needs.
• Security-First Philosophy: Placing security at the “core” of every solution is a strong selling point. While all IT providers offer security, making it a foundational principle for all services sets them apart from those who treat it as an add-on.
  • Benefit: Provides peace of mind regarding data protection and resilience against cyber threats.

Comparison with Key Competitor Types

Let’s look at how Hosted.co.uk might compare to different categories of competitors:

1. Large, Global IT Service Providers e.g., Accenture, IBM, Computacenter, SCC

• Scale & Reach: These giants operate globally, offering immense scale, extensive resources, and a presence in virtually every industry. They can handle projects of unparalleled complexity and size.
  • Hosted.co.uk: Likely more agile and potentially more personalized for mid-market clients. While they have large clients like Vodafone, their overall operational footprint is smaller.
• Breadth of Services: Often offer a broader range of consulting, custom software development, and industry-specific solutions beyond core IT, cloud, and telecoms.
  • Hosted.co.uk: Focused on its three core pillars, which might be more streamlined for businesses seeking specific services rather than holistic digital transformation.
• Pricing: Can be perceived as more expensive due to their overheads, but also offer significant economies of scale for very large deployments.
  • Hosted.co.uk: Pricing is undisclosed, but likely aims for a competitive position for businesses seeking a high-touch, integrated service without the full enterprise-level consultancy fees.

2. Niche Cloud Specialists e.g., Cloudreach, specific AWS/Azure/GCP partners

• Depth of Expertise: These firms often possess hyper-specialized knowledge in a single cloud platform e.g., exclusively Azure or AWS, allowing for deep optimization and advanced architecture.
  • Hosted.co.uk: Offers broad cloud services including Microsoft 365 and Azure, but may not have the same level of deep, platform-specific expertise as a pure-play cloud specialist. Their strength is integration across IT disciplines, not necessarily ultra-specialization in one cloud.
• Agility & Innovation: Can be quicker to adopt new cloud technologies and best practices.
  • Hosted.co.uk: Their “50 years experience” suggests stability, but innovation pace in specific cloud areas might be more measured.

3. Dedicated Cybersecurity Firms e.g., NCC Group, BT Security, Kroll

• Focus & Research: These companies live and breathe cybersecurity, investing heavily in threat intelligence, R&D, and incident response capabilities. They often offer highly specialized services like digital forensics, penetration testing, and security consulting at a deeper level.
  • Hosted.co.uk: Offers robust foundational and advanced security services SASE, Dark Web Monitoring, but might not match the niche expertise or specialized incident response teams of a pure-play cybersecurity firm. Their security is integrated into their overall IT offering.
• Certifications & Accreditations: Often hold a wider array of high-level security certifications and government clearances.
  • Hosted.co.uk: Helps clients achieve Cyber Essentials, a good foundational step, but more specific certifications might be held by dedicated security firms.

4. Pure-Play Telecommunications Providers e.g., Vodafone Business, BT Business, Gamma Communications

• Network Infrastructure: These providers own and operate vast network infrastructures, offering direct control over service quality and often more competitive rates for core connectivity.
  • Hosted.co.uk: Likely resells or partners with underlying network providers for its telecom services. While they manage the service, they don’t own the core network.
• Specialized Communication Solutions: May offer more advanced features or specific customizations for contact centers CCaaS or unified communications UCaaS given their singular focus.
  • Hosted.co.uk: Provides comprehensive UCaaS/CCaaS, but a direct telecom provider might have an even deeper portfolio of niche communication solutions.

Who is Hosted.co.uk Best Suited For?

Based on this comparison, Hosted.co.uk appears to be particularly well-suited for:

• Mid-sized to Large Enterprises SMEs to Enterprise: Businesses that require integrated IT, security, and telecom services and prefer a single, accountable vendor.
• Companies Seeking a Strategic Partner: Businesses looking for a long-term relationship with an experienced provider that understands their operational needs and offers a consultative approach.
• Organizations Prioritizing Security: Businesses for whom cybersecurity is a critical concern and want it embedded into every aspect of their IT environment.
• Businesses Looking to Consolidate Vendors: Companies tired of managing multiple IT, security, and telecom providers and seeking a more streamlined solution.

In essence, Hosted.co.uk positions itself as a reliable, experienced, and integrated technology partner, differentiating itself by offering a holistic approach to business IT, with a strong emphasis on security, rather than excelling in just one highly specialized niche.

This comprehensive model appeals to businesses seeking simplicity and consistency across their digital infrastructure. Importhsmilestudio.com Reviews

Key Cyberthreats and Trends in 2024 So Far

Based on Hosted.co.uk’s “LATEST NEWS” section, one of the highlighted articles is “KEY CYBERTHREATS AND TRENDS IN 2024 SO FAR.” While the article content itself is not directly accessible on the main page, the title suggests a focus on current cybersecurity challenges.

Drawing from broader industry reports and expert analyses, we can anticipate the trends Hosted.co.uk is likely addressing.

Understanding these threats is crucial for any business, and aligning with a provider like Hosted.co.uk that actively monitors and responds to them is vital for protection.

1. Ransomware Evolution and Double Extortion

Ransomware continues to be a pervasive threat, with attackers constantly refining their tactics.

• Shift to Data Exfiltration: Beyond encrypting data for ransom, attackers increasingly exfiltrate sensitive data before encryption. This “double extortion” tactic allows them to demand a second ransom, threatening to publish the stolen data if not paid. This adds immense pressure, as paying to decrypt doesn’t prevent data exposure.
  • Statistic: According to a report by Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42, the average ransomware payment in 2023 surged by 28% to $1.5 million, while double extortion attacks increased by 49% from 2022 to 2023. Source: Unit 42 Ransomware Report 2024.
• Ransomware-as-a-Service RaaS: The proliferation of RaaS models lowers the barrier to entry for cybercriminals, making it easier for less technical individuals to launch sophisticated attacks.
• Targeting Critical Infrastructure: Attacks on healthcare, utilities, and financial services continue to pose significant risks, impacting essential services and public safety.

2. Supply Chain Attacks

Attackers are increasingly targeting weaker links in the supply chain to gain access to larger, more secure organizations. Electromarket.co.uk Reviews

• Software Supply Chain: Exploiting vulnerabilities in third-party software, libraries, or open-source components used by target organizations e.g., SolarWinds, Log4j.
• Vendor Access: Compromising vendors with legitimate access to a target’s network or systems.
  • Impact: A single breach in a supplier can have a cascading effect across an entire ecosystem of client organizations. For example, a 2023 report by Cybersecurity Ventures estimated that supply chain attacks could cost businesses $60 billion annually by 2025.

3. AI-Powered Threats and Defense

The rise of artificial intelligence AI is a double-edged sword in cybersecurity.

• AI for Attack: Threat actors are leveraging AI to automate and enhance their attacks, including:
  • Phishing: Generating highly convincing, grammatically perfect phishing emails and deepfake voice or video calls for social engineering.
  • Malware Generation: Creating polymorphic malware that can evade traditional detection methods.
  • Vulnerability Scanning: Rapidly identifying vulnerabilities in systems.
• AI for Defense: Cybersecurity solutions are also increasingly using AI and machine learning for:
  • Anomaly Detection: Identifying unusual patterns in network traffic or user behavior.
  • Threat Prediction: Proactively identifying potential threats based on vast datasets.
  • Automated Response: Orchestrating automated responses to incidents.

4. Identity and Access Management IAM Exploits

Compromised credentials remain a leading cause of breaches.

• Phishing and Credential Stuffing: Despite awareness campaigns, phishing remains highly effective in tricking users into revealing login credentials. Credential stuffing using stolen credentials from one breach to try logging into other services also remains prevalent.
• MFA Bypass Techniques: Attackers are developing sophisticated methods to bypass Multi-Factor Authentication MFA, such as MFA prompt bombing or session hijacking.
  • Data Point: Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report DBIR highlighted that 83% of breaches involved human elements, with stolen credentials being a primary attack vector.

5. Cloud Security Misconfigurations

As more businesses migrate to the cloud, misconfigurations in cloud environments present significant vulnerabilities.

• Complexity: Cloud environments can be complex, and a single misconfigured setting in an IaaS or PaaS deployment can expose sensitive data or systems.
• Lack of Visibility: Organizations sometimes struggle with visibility into their cloud assets and security posture.
• Data Exposure: Publicly accessible storage buckets e.g., S3 buckets, overly permissive access controls, and unpatched cloud services are common culprits.
  • Risk: The Cloud Security Alliance CSA consistently lists misconfiguration as a top threat, estimating that it accounts for a significant percentage of cloud breaches.

6. IoT Vulnerabilities

The proliferation of Internet of Things IoT devices in business environments e.g., smart sensors, connected industrial equipment creates new attack surfaces.

• Weak Security: Many IoT devices are designed for functionality, not security, often shipping with default passwords or unpatched vulnerabilities.
• Lateral Movement: Compromised IoT devices can serve as entry points for attackers to move laterally into the corporate network.

Addressing these dynamic cyberthreats requires a multi-layered security strategy, continuous monitoring, and a proactive approach to vulnerability management. Artexplore.net Reviews

Working From Home – A Security Checklist

While offering flexibility, it has also expanded the attack surface significantly.

A robust security checklist for remote work environments is not just a recommendation but a necessity.

Here’s a detailed security checklist that businesses and their remote employees should implement, drawing on best practices that a provider like Hosted.co.uk would advocate:

For the Business IT and Security Teams

1. Enforce Strong Identity and Access Management IAM:
   • Multi-Factor Authentication MFA: Mandate MFA for all corporate applications, VPNs, and cloud services. Data Point: According to Microsoft, MFA blocks over 99.9% of automated attacks.
   • Least Privilege Access: Grant users only the minimum necessary permissions to perform their job functions.
   • Regular Access Reviews: Periodically review and revoke unnecessary access for employees, especially those who have changed roles or left the company.
2. Secure Remote Access Solutions:
   • VPN Virtual Private Network: Implement a robust VPN for all remote connections to the corporate network, ensuring strong encryption and secure protocols.
   • Zero Trust Network Access ZTNA: Consider adopting a Zero Trust model, where no user or device is inherently trusted, and access is verified continuously. This aligns with SASE principles.
   • Endpoint Management: Ensure all company-owned devices laptops, desktops used by remote employees are managed, updated, and secured centrally.
3. Endpoint Security:
   • Antivirus/Anti-Malware: Deploy enterprise-grade antivirus and anti-malware solutions on all remote devices and ensure they are regularly updated.
   • Endpoint Detection and Response EDR: Implement EDR solutions to monitor for suspicious activity, detect threats, and enable rapid response.
   • Patch Management: Enforce a strict patch management policy to ensure operating systems, applications, and browsers on remote devices are kept up-to-date with the latest security patches.
4. Data Protection and Backup:
   • Data Loss Prevention DLP: Implement DLP solutions to prevent sensitive corporate data from leaving the controlled environment e.g., via personal cloud storage, email, or USB drives.
   • Cloud Backup: Ensure critical business data is regularly backed up to secure cloud storage solutions, enabling quick recovery in case of data loss or ransomware attack.
   • Encryption: Mandate encryption for all sensitive data at rest on devices and in transit.
5. Employee Training and Awareness:
   • Phishing Awareness: Conduct regular training on identifying and reporting phishing, spear-phishing, and social engineering attempts.
   • Security Best Practices: Educate employees on best practices for password hygiene, using public Wi-Fi, identifying suspicious links, and reporting security incidents.
   • Remote Work Policies: Clearly communicate and enforce policies related to acceptable use of devices, data handling, and physical security of remote workspaces.
6. Secure Collaboration Tools:
   • Approved Platforms: Standardize on secure, enterprise-grade collaboration platforms e.g., Microsoft Teams, Zoom for Business with strong security features enabled.
   • Configuration: Configure these tools securely, disabling features like anonymous access or unencrypted file sharing where appropriate.
7. Incident Response Planning:
   • Remote Incident Response: Develop and test incident response plans that account for a distributed workforce, ensuring swift detection, containment, and recovery even when employees are remote.
   • Communication Protocols: Establish clear communication channels for reporting and responding to security incidents in a remote environment.

For the Remote Employee

1. Secure Home Network:
   • Strong Wi-Fi Password: Use a strong, unique password for your home Wi-Fi network.
   • Router Security: Change the default password of your router, enable WPA2/WPA3 encryption, and regularly update its firmware. Consider disabling remote management if not necessary.
2. Device Security:
   • Company Devices Only: Use only company-provided and managed devices for work-related tasks. Avoid using personal devices for sensitive corporate data.
   • Screen Lock: Always lock your computer screen when stepping away from your workstation.
   • Physical Security: Keep devices in a secure location, especially when not in use, to prevent theft or unauthorized access.
3. Password Hygiene:
   • Strong, Unique Passwords: Use complex, unique passwords for all work-related accounts.
   • Password Manager: Utilize an approved enterprise password manager to securely store and generate strong passwords.
   • MFA: Always use Multi-Factor Authentication when prompted.
4. Be Wary of Phishing and Scams:
   • Verify Senders: Always verify the sender of emails, especially if they request sensitive information or prompt urgent action. Be suspicious of unsolicited attachments or links.
   • Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious emails, calls, or messages to your IT security team immediately.
5. Data Handling:
   • No Personal Cloud Storage: Avoid saving sensitive company data to personal cloud storage services e.g., personal Dropbox, Google Drive.
   • Secure Printing/Scanning: If printing sensitive documents, ensure they are retrieved immediately and securely disposed of.
6. Maintain Professional Boundaries:
   • Webcam and Microphone Awareness: Be mindful of what’s in your background during video calls and ensure microphones are muted when not speaking, especially when discussing sensitive information.

By adhering to this comprehensive checklist, businesses can significantly mitigate the security risks associated with remote work, ensuring that flexibility doesn’t come at the cost of data integrity and system security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hosted.co.uk?

Based on checking the website, Hosted.co.uk is a B2B technology service provider specializing in integrated solutions across security, IT cloud, and telecommunications for businesses in the UK. They position themselves as a “complete technology provider.” Spreadshirt.ie Reviews

What services does Hosted.co.uk offer?

Hosted.co.uk offers a range of services including cybersecurity solutions SASE, Dark Web monitoring, Cyber Protection, IT cloud services Managed I.T., IaaS, PaaS, DaaS, Microsoft 365/Azure management, Cloud Backup, and telecoms solutions Business Mobiles, IoT, CCaaS, UCaaS, Collaboration.

Does Hosted.co.uk provide cybersecurity services?

Yes, Hosted.co.uk places a strong emphasis on cybersecurity, offering services like SASE Secure Access Service Edge, Dark Web monitoring, Cyber Protection, and assistance with Cyber Essentials certification.

What kind of cloud services does Hosted.co.uk manage?

Hosted.co.uk manages a comprehensive suite of cloud services, including Infrastructure As A Service IaaS, Platform As A Service PaaS, Desktop As A Service DaaS, Endpoint Management, Server Management, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Azure, Cloud Backup, and Disaster Recovery.

Does Hosted.co.uk offer business mobile solutions?

Yes, Hosted.co.uk provides Business Mobiles as part of its telecommunications offerings, alongside IoT, Contact Centre as a Service CCaaS, and Unified Communications as a Service UCaaS.

Is Hosted.co.uk suitable for small businesses?

While the website features testimonials from large enterprises like Vodafone, Hosted.co.uk’s comprehensive offering suggests they cater to businesses of varying sizes, likely from SMEs to large enterprises, providing tailored solutions. Aquaprotect.be Reviews

How long has Hosted.co.uk been in business?

The website states that their specialists have over 50 years’ experience collectively and highlights a partnership with Vodafone UK that has evolved and strengthened for over 25 years, indicating a long operational history.

Can Hosted.co.uk help with Microsoft 365 management?

Yes, Hosted.co.uk explicitly mentions Microsoft 365 as one of their managed IT cloud services, indicating expertise in its deployment and ongoing management.

Does Hosted.co.uk publish its pricing online?

No, based on the website, Hosted.co.uk does not publish specific pricing details for its services. Pricing is typically determined after a consultation to assess specific business needs and scope.

How do I get a quote from Hosted.co.uk?

To get a quote, you would typically need to schedule a call with their team, as prominently featured on their website. This allows them to understand your requirements and provide a customized proposal.

What is SASE and does Hosted.co.uk offer it?

SASE Secure Access Service Edge is a cloud-native architecture that combines network security functions with WAN capabilities. Yes, Hosted.co.uk offers SASE as a core component of their security services. Niagarahealthcare.co.uk Reviews

Does Hosted.co.uk provide disaster recovery solutions?

Yes, Hosted.co.uk offers Disaster Recovery as part of its IT cloud services, ensuring business continuity and data resilience.

What kind of customer support does Hosted.co.uk offer?

The website mentions “Great service and friendly support” in testimonials, suggesting a focus on client support, likely through dedicated account managers and technical support teams.

Can Hosted.co.uk help with cloud migration?

While not explicitly detailed as a standalone service, their extensive IT cloud offerings like IaaS, PaaS, and DaaS, along with Microsoft Azure expertise, strongly imply they can assist businesses with cloud migration strategies and execution.

Does Hosted.co.uk have case studies?

Yes, the website features case studies, including one with “Hosted x 23.5 Degrees” on redefining Starbucks’ security platform, to demonstrate their capabilities and successful client partnerships.

What industries does Hosted.co.uk work with?

Based on the testimonials and case studies e.g., Vodafone UK in telecommunications, Starbucks in retail/F&B, Hosted.co.uk appears to work across a diverse range of industries that require robust IT, security, and telecom solutions.

How does Hosted.co.uk ensure security is at its core?

Hosted.co.uk states that “Every solution we recommend has security at its core,” indicating an integrated approach where security considerations are built into all their IT and telecom offerings from the ground up, rather than being an afterthought.

What is UCaaS and does Hosted.co.uk provide it?

UCaaS Unified Communications as a Service integrates various communication channels voice, video, messaging into a single cloud platform. Yes, Hosted.co.uk lists UCaaS as one of their telecoms offerings.

Are there any testimonials available for Hosted.co.uk?

Yes, the Hosted.co.uk website prominently displays several testimonials from various clients, including Vodafone UK, praising their expert guidance, knowledge, and professional service.

How can I contact Hosted.co.uk?

You can contact Hosted.co.uk by scheduling a call through their website, or by using the contact information likely phone and email available on their “Contact” page.

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