Gone are the days when SME businesses could view cybersecurity mostly as a concern for big corporations with global exposure and dedicated IT resource. Today, cybercrime is a multi-billion pound ‘industry’, with small and mid-sized businesses most often in its sights.

And the risks are very real. In the past year alone, brands including M&S, Co-op, Harrods, and even major railway stations have made headlines due to cybersecurity incidents. These high-profile cases show that no organisation, regardless of size or sector, is immune. They also serve as reminders of how disruptive and damaging an attack can be.

So, who is it that poses the threat? The answer is highly organised criminal groups, generally based overseas, running lucrative cybercrime business models, all on their own. With ransomware now a billion-pound industry, these groups buy and sell stolen data, lease out attack tools, and target companies whose stolen data indicates their capacity to pay.

According to HMRC, 70% of UK SMEs were hit by cyberattacks last year. Yet half of all UK and US businesses, mostly smaller firms, still don’t have a response plan in place.

So let’s look at why SMEs are at such risk, what today’s most common threats look like, and the practical and affordable steps you can take to protect yourself if you run a business.  

These insights emerged from a fascinating recent panel discussion which our very own Aaron Rice, CIO, hosted at Vorboss HQ, featuring leaders from cybersecurity firms Wavenet and SE LABS. If you’re running an SME and don’t yet have a clear cybersecurity plan, this is the place to start.

Not ‘if’, but when. The case for ‘resilience’

Cybersecurity used to be about trying to build an impenetrable wall around your systems, but as the threat landscape has changed, so has the mindset. Today, it’s less about preventing every attack and more about being ready to respond when something does get through.

This concept - resilience - came up repeatedly as Wavenet’s CISO, Paul Colwell, and SE LABS’ CEO, Simon Edwards, shared their views. Their message for SMEs was clear. It’s not a question of if you’ll be attacked, it’s a matter of when. How well you bounce back may be the difference between a brief disruption and a long-term crisis.

Perhaps the first question to ask in any cyber incident is “Do we have backups?”. If your systems are compromised or locked down, having secure, up-to-date backups can be the difference between getting back to work or being forced to pay a ransom to regain access. Backups don’t stop an attack, but they’ll make recovery easier.

A cyberattack doesn’t just target your systems, it puts your entire business at risk. Downtime, financial loss, and damaged customer trust are all on the table.

The good news is that becoming resilient doesn’t involve making huge investment into high-end technology. With a little planning, it’s entirely possible to build a strong line of defence, and a solid plan for recovery, without excessive cost. In fact, with fewer systems, simpler structures, and the ability to act quickly, smaller businesses often have an advantage over large enterprises when it comes to putting effective measures in place.

The most common cyber threats to SMEs

As most SMEs don’t have the time or budget to keep up with every new cybercrime threat, they make attractive targets for hackers, and though cyberattacks come in all shapes and sizes, certain threats show up again and again.

So, what are the most common cyber threats facing SMEs?

Phishing and identity theft

This is where it usually starts. A staff member receives what looks like a legitimate message, usually impersonating a colleague, a supplier, or even a client. It might ask them to click a link, update some details, or approve a payment.

If they take the bait, attackers can obtain access to login credentials, email accounts, or sensitive data, all without needing to “break in”. In the words of SE LABS’ Simon Edwards, “Hackers don’t break in. They log in.”

Ransomware

Ransomware is a frighteningly effective criminal business model, whose use against SMEs has escalated dramatically. Attackers encrypt your data, lock your systems, and demand payment (usually in Bitcoin) to let you back in. In 2023 alone, ransomware was already estimated to be worth over £1bn a year.  

While paying the ransom may seem to be the quickest way out, it can open your business up to serious legal and ethical risks, especially if you have no visibility on where the money you’re paying over is going to.

Business email compromise (BEC)

BEC attacks are clever, patient and, again, highly lucrative. Hackers gain access to an internal email account and often set up automatic forwarding to an external address, allowing them to silently monitor conversations over time. They gather intel, study genuine correspondence, and then strike, perhaps by sending a fake invoice or redirecting a payment. It’s why fake emails are so convincing: these criminals aren’t guessing, they know exactly what you’re expecting and exploit timing and trust with precision.

Cyber hygiene. Arranging simple, powerful protection

Cybersecurity doesn’t have to start with technology. It starts with behaviour; simple, everyday habits that make it harder for attackers to get in.

Unlike big organisations with complex systems, SME management teams are usually free to set rules, enforce good habits, and make changes without needing to go through layers of approval.

The number one non-technical thing an SME can do to protect itself? Simon Edwards didn’t hesitate: “Easy. Cyber hygiene and the Cyber Essentials programme.”

So, what does good, basic cyber hygiene look like? A good way to think about it is via ‘The 3 Ps’, as the industry refers to them.

Passwords

Make sure everyone in your business is using strong, unique passwords, and that these aren’t shared or reused across different systems.

A strong password should:

• Be at least 12 characters long

• Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols

• Avoid personal details or common words

Next, enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to stop unauthorised access.

Phishing

Your team is your first line of defence. Train your people to recognise suspicious emails, double-check unusual requests, and report anything that doesn’t feel right. Most phishing attacks rely on urgency or familiarity to bypass common sense, so encouraging people to pause and consult with managers or appropriate colleagues before taking any action in response to a suspect email can make all the difference.

Patching

Every piece of software has flaws, and cybercriminals are quick to exploit these. Keep all your systems up to date. That includes operating systems, email tools, cloud platforms, routers, and printers. When a zero-day vulnerability is announced, fast patching is critical. It could be the difference between staying secure or becoming one of the first victims.

None of these steps requires major investment. All that’s needed is a clear policy, regular reminders, and a commitment to taking security seriously.

Certifications that help protect and reassure

Even when you recognise the danger of cyberattacks and have measures like these in place to reduce your exposure, how can you evidence this to clients and customers, as well as your employees?

It doesn’t have to be complex - there are certification schemes built specifically for SMEs.

At a basic level, they help you cover the fundamentals. But they also send a clear signal to clients, partners, insurers, and suppliers that you’re serious about reducing risk.

The three most widely recognised certifications are:

Cyber Essentials

The entry point for most UK organisations, and a great starting place for SMEs. Cyber Essentials is a government-backed scheme that covers the basics: secure configuration, access controls, software updates, and protection against common threats. It’s a self-assessed process and, once certified, you’ll receive a badge that shows you’ve met the standard. Clients like it. Insurers like it. And it’s easier to attain than you think.

Cyber Essentials Plus

This is the next step up. It includes everything in the basic Cyber Essentials scheme but adds an independent audit and technical testing. If your business handles sensitive data, works with regulated industries, or simply wants more assurance, then this is worth considering.

ISO 27001

Recognised internationally, this is the gold standard for information security management. It’s more involved and more expensive than Cyber Essentials, but if your business is growing fast or you’re working with enterprise clients, it can be a significant asset.

Whatever level of certification you feel is appropriate for your business, try not to treat it as a one-off box-ticking exercise. It’s a chance to improve your practices, strengthen your culture, and set a clear security baseline that will protect you as you grow.

What to do if you’re attacked

No matter how well prepared you are, things can still go wrong.

The key is to stay calm and act quickly, following a pre-prepared response plan. A good response plan doesn’t just help you recover faster. It can also limit the damage, protect your customers, and stop the same thing happening again.

If you find yourself under attack, here’s what to do:

1. Find the way in

Your first priority is to understand how the attacker got access. Was it a stolen password? A phishing email? A vulnerability in your software? Until you know, you won’t be able to shut the door properly, and you risk being hit again.

“Your number one priority is to understand the route of attack, and block it,” Simon Edwards advises. “If you don’t, there’s nothing to stop them coming back.”

2. Contain the damage

Isolate affected devices or systems. Lock down compromised accounts. If you work with an IT provider, contact them immediately. The faster you act, the more you can limit the spread.

3. Check your backups

If your systems have been locked by ransomware or wiped by an attacker, check whether your backups are intact and up to date. If so, you may be able to restore your data without paying a ransom and get your business back on its feet faster. Ideally, backups should be stored offline or in a secure cloud service and tested regularly to make sure they work when you need them.

4. Don’t rush to pay

If it’s a ransomware attack, you’ll be asked to pay - usually in Bitcoin. But paying the ransom doesn’t guarantee you’ll get your data back, and it could even put you in legal trouble if the money later turns up in a sanctioned country. Always get expert advice, ideally from a law firm with a cybersecurity team, before taking any action.

5. Inform the right people

Depending on the nature of the breach, you may need to notify regulators, clients, suppliers, or insurers. Transparency is important, and delay can make things worse. If you hold personal data, you may also have a legal duty to report the incident to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

6. Learn from it

An attack is painful, but it’s also an opportunity. Once you’ve recovered, take time to understand what went wrong and how to prevent it in future. Were there warning signs? Was it something that could have been stopped? Use the experience to build better defences.

Penetration testing. Something to know as you grow

As your business grows or handles sensitive data, you’ll likely hear about penetration testing. Pen testing involves hiring ethical hackers to find weak spots in your systems before attackers can exploit them.

For many SMEs, especially early on, this might be overkill. But as your business scales, or you pursue larger clients, ‘pen testing’ can become a requirement. Insurers may also ask about it if you’re looking for more comprehensive cyber cover.

Don’t forget your suppliers

Many SMEs rely on third-party suppliers like cloud software and service providers to handle everything from email and invoicing to customer data and collaboration tools. But if one of those providers gets hacked, your business could be affected.

Don’t hold back. Ask the companies whose systems you engage with a few simple questions:

• "What security measures do you have in place?"

• "Are you certified under schemes like Cyber Essentials or ISO 27001?"

• "If something goes wrong at your end, who’s responsible, and how will we be informed?"

It doesn’t need to be a formal audit. Just showing that you’re aware of the risk and asking for basic reassurances can go a long way. And if a supplier is vague or dismissive about security, treat that as a red flag. In the end, your own cybersecurity is only as strong as the people you trust to help run your business.

Take action today

You don’t need to overhaul your entire business to make meaningful progress on cybersecurity. A few well-chosen actions will dramatically reduce your risk, and set a solid foundation for whatever may happen:

A final thought: resilience beats perfection

Cybersecurity can feel like a complex topic, especially when you’re running a growing business and perhaps no dedicated IT team. But protecting your company doesn’t mean spending a fortune on tech.  

It means being prepared. Putting sensible safeguards in place. Creating a culture of awareness. And knowing how you’ll respond if, or when, something goes wrong.  

That’s resilience, and it’s well within reach for every SME.

Get in touch

If you'd like to discuss building resilience, or how your connectivity can strengthen your security strategy, speak to one of our experts today.

We’ll connect you directly with SE LABS or Wavenet if we believe it’s the right fit for your needs.

Wash - A quest for pixel-perfect post-production

Wash is an independent post-production company based in London, specialising in colour grading and VFX for commercials, music videos, and feature films. They’ve worked with some of the world’s most recognisable brands, including Bentley, Samsung, and Adidas.

Founded by Jon Dobson in 2016, Wash quickly carved out a name for itself as a boutique, cutting-edge studio delivering high-end post production. They pride themselves on delivering and building long-term relationships, and always going the extra mile.

In 2024, the business expanded their services to 3D animation, TV title sequences, and special FX compositing. As the client base and file sizes grew, Jon and the team needed infrastructure that could scale with their ambitions - supporting globally distributed artists without compromising quality.

Future-proofing post-production with a 25Gbps connection

Their previous connection was fine, but fine isn’t what Wash is built on. As the business scaled, so did the frustration with a provider that didn’t check-in, didn’t understand their industry, and didn’t offer the service Wash needed.

Where Vorboss made the impact

A global studio demands global performance

With artists from Turkey, India, and beyond collaborating remotely with the London HQ, seamless connectivity isn't just important, it's essential. The Vorboss network delivers exactly that, with near-instant responsiveness and ultra-low latency. So, whether it's a director in LA or a designer in Istanbul, everyone sees what’s happening in real time - no stutter, no delays, no surprises.

100Gbps-ready infrastructure

As 8K video becomes the new ‘normal’ and file sizes grow, Wash upgraded from a 10Gbps to 25Gbps Direct Internet line - future-proofing their workflow and improving transfer speeds, stability, and efficiency. Plus, if/when the time comes, they can increase their bandwidth in days, not months.

Secure, stable remote access

From unreleased campaigns to confidential TV productions, security is non-negotiable. With artists logging in from all over the world, the Wash team needs to know who’s connected and from where. Their Vorboss connection gives them the speed and stability needed to support the tools that keep everything secure and running smoothly.

What stood out for Wash

Future-proofed connectivity

As Wash’s profile continues to rise, so does their demand for high-performance connectivity. With a 25Gbps line already powering their work, they’re not just keeping up, they’re leading the charge. Ready to scale up to 100Gbps with ease when the time comes, Wash are fully equipped to keep delivering world-class storytelling and visuals, without compromise.

“OK. So… exactly what is a DDoS attack?” Unfortunately, it’s a question being asked with increasing regularity by owners and CEOs confronted with the news that their systems have suffered an attack.

DDoS (Distributed Denial-of-Service) attacks pose a constant and escalating threat to all businesses. According to cyber security training platform StationX, between 2020 and 2022 cyber attacks against SMEs surged by 150%, reaching 31,000 attacks per day globally. A 2025 roundup of cyber crime statistics from one of the UK’s leading managed services firms, meanwhile, revealed that enterprise organisations undergo an eyewatering 1700 attacks each day. Regardless of size, it’s important for all businesses to understand how DDoS attacks work, what their impact might be and, most importantly, how to prevent DDoS attacks.

We’ve put together this guide to help you understand the fundamentals of DDoS attacks, the types businesses face, why they are targeted, and the best strategies for prevention and mitigation. And we’ll also look at how Vorboss can help you safeguard your operations and prevent DDoS attacks from succeeding.

What is a DDoS attack?

A DDoS attack aims to overwhelm a system, service, or network with excessive internet traffic, leaving it inaccessible to legitimate users. In business terms, the consequences can be extremely serious, leading to financial loss, reputational damage and substantial disruption to operations.  

So what’s the difference between a DoS and DDoS attack, as both terms are often mentioned when a business  has been affected? In a traditional DoS (Denial-of-Service) attack, a single system is usually involved in launching the attack. A DDoS attack, in contrast, leverages multiple compromised computers, often distributed globally, to create a coordinated assault. These devices form what is known as a botnet - an army of infected machines controlled by a malicious actor whose agenda may range from the criminal to the pointlessly disruptive.

Now let’s try to answer the question, “What are DDoS attacks?” at a technical level. Typically, DDoS attacks work by exploiting weaknesses in internet-connected systems, using a range of techniques to flood the target with requests.

Attackers may direct massive amounts of data at a server to exhaust its bandwidth, send malformed network packets to confuse and crash the system, or target vulnerabilities in applications to bring them down. Because the traffic appears to come from many different sources, blocking the attack is much more complex than dealing with a single-source DoS attack.

There are also some common misconceptions about what DDoS attacks are. One of these is that only large companies are really at risk. In reality, businesses of all sizes are targeted all the time, including small and medium enterprises.

Another misconception is that firewalls alone provide adequate protection. While firewalls play an important role in network security, they are not designed to handle the sheer scale of a DDoS attack. People also often assume that a DDoS attack would be immediately noticeable. Many attacks begin subtly, however, gradually increasing in intensity over time. This makes early detection and mitigation a critical part of how to prevent DDoS attacks.

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Types of DDoS attacks

DDoS attacks come in several forms, each with its own approach to overwhelming a system. With IBM’s 2024 Cost of a Data Breach Report revealing that the global average cost of a data breach (across both enterprise and SMB targets) had reached $4.88 million, it’s worth being aware of the different attack types, so you can take targeted action to defend against them.

Volumetric Attacks

Volumetric attacks are among the most common and straightforward forms of DDoS attacks. They work by consuming all the available bandwidth between the target system and the rest of the internet, so that the system has no capacity to handle legitimate users or customers.

Because of their scale, these attacks can be devastating, with the total amount of data being directed at the target system sometimes reaching trillions of bits per second in intensity - far beyond what most networks are designed to handle. The way that attackers achieve this is by generating a massive flood of data requests, often using the botnets described earlier to amplify their impact. Examples of volumetric type attacks include UDP floods, ICMP floods, and DNS amplification attacks.

To combat volumetric attacks, businesses need robust traffic filtering solutions, content delivery networks (CDNs), and scalable network infrastructure that’s capable of absorbing these kinds of sudden surge in demand.

‍Protocol Attacks

Protocol attacks, which are also known as state-exhaustion attacks, exploit vulnerabilities in network protocols to use up server resources. Unlike volumetric attacks that overwhelm bandwidth, protocol attacks specifically target weaknesses in the way devices and applications handle network connections. SYN floods, Ping of Death and Smurf attacks are all examples of this type of attack.

Protocol attacks can be difficult to detect because they don’t rely on massive traffic spikes. Instead, they stealthily take advantage of standard networking functions, causing a system to become sluggish or unresponsive. A business can mitigate these attacks using firewall rules, rate-limiting strategies and dedicated intrusion detection systems that monitor network activity for unusual patterns.

Application Layer Attacks

Application layer attacks, which are also known as Layer 7 attacks, are the most sophisticated and difficult kind of DDoS to detect. These attacks target the application or service layer of a system, mimicking legitimate requests but at a scale designed to overwhelm backend processes. Because they don’t generate massive volumes of traffic like volumetric attacks, they often outwit traditional detection methods.

One well-known example is the HTTP flood, where attackers send an overwhelming number of HTTP requests to a website, forcing the server to process each request until it becomes overloaded. Another Application Layer DDoS attack example is the Slowloris attack, where an attacker opens multiple connections to a target server and sends partial HTTP requests, keeping them open for as long as possible to consume server resources.

Application layer attacks are particularly dangerous because they target specific functions of a business’s digital services. A well-crafted attack can take down your login pages, API endpoints, or online transaction systems, disrupting essential operations in your business.  

“How do I stop DDoS attacks of this kind?” Good question. Mitigation strategies include using web application firewalls (WAFs), traffic analysis tools and bot mitigation services to distinguish between human users and automated threats.

To develop an effective defence strategy, as at Vorboss we routinely do for customers, a business and its security partner need to understand the different types of DDoS attacks. By combining multiple layers of security - such as firewalls, traffic monitoring, and scalable infrastructure - you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these disruptive cyber threats.

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Why are businesses targeted by DDoS attacks?

What is the purpose of a DDoS attack? DDoS attacks happen for a variety of reasons, and you can find your business targeted no matter what industry it is in. Some attacks are financially motivated, while others are designed to cause disruption or make a statement.

Cybercriminals sometimes use DDoS attacks as a form of extortion. In what’s known as a ransom DDoS (RDoS) attack, the attacker demands payment in exchange for stopping or preventing the attack. Businesses that rely on uptime to generate revenue, such as e-commerce platforms or online services, may make the decision to comply rather than risk prolonged downtime.

As is always the case with blackmail, however, paying the ransom does not guarantee protection, and it can even mark the company out as a fruitful ‘repeat’ target for the future.

In some industries, businesses face attacks from competitors looking to cause disruption. A well-timed DDoS attack can take down a rival’s website or online services during a crucial period, such as a product launch or seasonal sales event. While this kind of corporate sabotage is both unethical and, in the UK under Section 3 of the Computer Misuse Act 1990, illegal, it’s certainly not unheard of - particularly in high-competition markets.

DDoS attacks are also used by what are known as ‘Hacktivist’ groups to target organisations they disagree with politically, socially, or ethically. These attacks are often launched against government departments, financial institutions, or businesses associated with controversial industries. Unlike financially motivated attacks, ideological attacks are typically intended to send a message rather than extract ransom.

To complicate things further, not all DDoS attacks have any clear purpose. ‘Random Opportunity Attacks’ are usually carried out simply because an attacker finds an easy target. Automated scripts and botnets constantly scan the internet for vulnerable systems, and if a business lacks proper security measures it can find itself victim of an attack for no real reason whatsoever. While such attacks may not have a specific goal, they can still cause serious damage to your business by disrupting operations, costing both time and money.

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Impact of DDoS attacks on businesses

The consequences of a DDoS attack can be devastating. They can affect not only the immediate operational capacity of your business, but also its long-term stability and reputation.

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Downtime and resultant loss of revenue are of primary concern if your business relies heavily on its online presence. If, for example, you run an e-commerce platform or are a financial institution or cloud service provider, disruptions can quickly translate into significant financial losses. Customers unable to access your services may seek alternatives, leading to lost sales and, potentially, long-term customer attrition.

DDoS attacks can also cause damage to your brand reputation. If you repeatedly experience outages your business can quickly gain a reputation for unreliability. In highly competitive markets, this can damage customer confidence and result in reduced market share, as clients and partners begin to view you as insecure or unstable.  

Another significant possible impact is the breach of customer trust. Even if no data is stolen, customers expect services to be available when needed. Prolonged disruptions can create doubt in your company’s ability to protect its infrastructure and maintain security, making it harder both to retain existing customers and attract new ones.

Finally, the costs of recovery after a DDoS attack can be extensive. You may find yourselves needing to invest in forensic analysis, security upgrades, and potentially even legal compliance measures if an attack exposes weaknesses that lead to regulatory scrutiny. On top of this, there could be costs associated with customer compensation, public relations efforts and enhanced security infrastructure to prevent future attacks.

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How to detect a DDoS attack?

Detecting a DDoS attack early is crucial if you are to minimise its impact. The first sign of an attack is often a sudden slowdown in the performance of your systems or an unexplained spike in traffic. You should be alert to signs such as your website taking longer than expected to load, your services becoming intermittently unavailable, or customers complaining about accessibility issues.

Using monitoring tools and techniques can help distinguish between normal fluctuations in traffic and a potential DDoS attack. Network monitoring solutions can analyse incoming traffic for unusual patterns, such as an unexpected influx of requests from unfamiliar regions or spikes in traffic targeting a specific part of a service. Some businesses implement ‘anomaly detection’ systems that use artificial intelligence to differentiate between legitimate and malicious traffic automatically.

One of the key challenges is distinguishing legitimate traffic surges from DDoS attacks. Seasonal sales, marketing campaigns or viral content can generate large amounts of desirable traffic that may look similar to an attack at first glance. However, legitimate traffic typically shows a natural pattern, while a DDoS attack often appears as a sustained and unnatural surge. Analysing traffic sources, request types, and behavioural patterns can help a business determine whether it’s under attack, or simply experiencing a welcome spike in customer activity.

How to protect your business from DDoS attacks

Vorboss has huge experience in providing businesses of every size with robust protection. So, having looked at what is a DDoS attack, and at how to detect when your business is being targeted, the most important questions are how to prevent DDoS attacks and mitigate their impact?

• The first line of defence is always a  robust firewall, filtering incoming traffic to block malicious requests before they reach the network.  

• Load balancing and content delivery networks (CDNs) help distribute traffic across multiple servers, preventing single points of failure. This approach enhances resilience against high-volume attacks.

• Conducting regular security audits ensures that vulnerabilities are identified and addressed before they can be exploited.  

• It’s also good to develop and maintain an incident response plan, outlining the steps to be taken in the event that you are subject to an attack.

• Working with a trusted internet service provider like Vorboss can enhance protection, as many providers (Vorboss included) offer built-in DDoS mitigation services.  

• If your ISP does not offer this, you can safeguard yourselves by using dedicated DDoS mitigation services, which provide real-time traffic analysis and automatic threat neutralisation.

• Finally, you should consider the benefits of automatic mitigation over manual mitigation. Automated systems use AI-driven detection and response, providing faster and more effective defence against attacks, whereas manual mitigation requires human intervention and can be slower to react

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How Vorboss in safeguarding against DDoS attacks

When procuring business internet, London companies have a wide range of providers to choose from, but Vorboss provides robust security solutions designed to protect business customers from the growing threat of DDoS attacks. We leverage advanced threat detection and mitigation technologies to make sure customers maintain network uptime and security even in the face of large-scale attacks.

We employ real-time traffic monitoring and intelligent filtering to identify and block malicious traffic before it reaches our customers’ networks. Our automated DDoS mitigation systems detect unusual patterns and respond instantly, reducing downtime and preventing prolonged disruptions. Unlike traditional reactive approaches, Vorboss’s security solutions actively learn from each attempted attack, enhancing protection over time.

Choosing Vorboss as your security partner is a smart answer to the question of, “How do I stop DDoS attacks?”

Vorboss provides your business with enterprise-grade DDoS protection backed by a team of experienced cybersecurity experts. Our services include scalable mitigation solutions, ensuring you receive tailored protection no matter what the size of your business or infrastructure. As we integrate our DDoS protection with Vorboss’s high-performance internet services, this results in a seamless solution for any business that’s reliant on fast and uninterrupted connectivity.

By partnering with Vorboss, you gain peace of mind, knowing that your critical online infrastructure is protected from DDoS attacks, no matter what form they take.  

Be Proactive. The answer to how to prevent a DDoS attack

DDoS attacks are a pressing issue, and a clear and present danger, for businesses of all sizes. Proactive measures such as implementing robust security solutions, conducting regular audits, and partnering with a reliable provider like Vorboss are the best way to minimise the risk and mitigate the impact of these threats. An effective defence strategy is not so much about recovering from an attack as about preventing it in the first place, protecting both your operations and reputation.

If your business is looking for comprehensive DDoS protection and uninterrupted network performance, get in touch with us. Contact Vorboss to learn how we can help protect your business from DDoS attacks with reliable and secure solutions.

Vorboss is disrupting the telecoms status quo as we build London’s only dedicated fibre network for businesses. We are growing a team as diverse as the communities we serve.

Our annual gender pay gap report gives us a moment to take stock—celebrating the progress we’ve made towards equity and sharpening our focus on where we still need to go, especially when it comes to equal representation of women at every level of the business.

In an industry that has long lacked diversity, we’ve spent years raising the bar. Equity, inclusion, and diversity are embedded in how we operate—from opening doors through our in-house academy, to designing tools, kit, and PPE with real comfort and usability in mind.

Read the full report here.

Serving up speed: How 10Gbps connectivity changed everything for Patty & Bun

Patty & Bun was established in 2012 and is renowned for serving high-quality gourmet burgers. Their mouthwatering menu changes monthly, with new specials added to keep flavours fresh and customers returning.  

With 9 locations across London, the business has built a strong reputation for its delicious food and superb customer experience. While the company has consistently grown year on year, its connectivity slowly began to fall short across several sites, including its HQ on Cavendish Street, London.

Why reliable internet is as crucial as the perfect location

When success relies on serving thousands of customers daily, operational efficiency is critical to success, and there is little room for downtime.    

To maintain smooth operations, Patty & Bun relies on two key factors: Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) systems, which are fundamental to processing orders and managing billing, and fast, stable internet connectivity, which ensures the EPOS systems can keep up with processing information at speed.

The cost of unreliable internet  

Providing exceptional service, day after day, is challenging enough. But adding some connectivity chaos to the mix quickly became a recipe for disaster.  

The team experienced frequent outages and inconsistent speeds, which meant their EPOS systems would either be frustratingly slow or completely out of action for minutes, hours or sometimes even days. All amplified by the fact they had different internet service providers across multiple locations, making troubleshooting each providers individual line a nightmare for the team.

This meant order processing and restaurant operations took a hit, negatively impacting their customers, staff, and ultimately revenue.

From frustration to fast – a seamless switchover

Despite the disruption, the team feared that changing internet service provider would result in further disruption – something they simply could not afford to happen.  

After Vorboss was recommended through an industry partner, they decided it was worth exploring. They were quickly assured of a seamless transition with little to no disruption to day-to-day operations, meaning the switch-over wouldn’t hinder their ambitious revenue targets, and would ultimately fix all their connectivity problems.

Soon after, our install team connected them with a Direct Internet line whilst they were still in contract with various ISPs across different locations, at no extra cost (meaning no double billing). So, not only were they able to consolidate their connectivity, but there was also zero switchover downtime, disruption or additional cost.  

The 10Gbps upgrade that changed everything

Vorboss provided one to one assistance throughout the process and were on hand 24/7 for any questions or additional support.

Now using a Vorboss 10Gbps Direct Internet connection (AKA a leased line), Patty & Bun never have to share their connection. This guarantees 10Gbps upload and download speed at all times, even during peak hours, which gives them the reliability and speed they’d craved for years.

Constantly troubleshooting slow EPOS systems, and inconsistent customer WiFi is now a thing of the past. The ability to focus on what’s really important - food, service, and experience - means they can continue to thrive in a highly competitive environment.

Moving office is a big deal for any business. That’s why knowing what you need to consider is vital in ensuring it goes smoothly and successfully.

So, whether you're upsizing, relocating to a more convenient spot, or upgrading to a more modern environment to encourage people back to the office, it's a moment that requires careful planning.  

So, we’ve put together this guide to help you stay on top of everything – from planning and budgeting to keeping your team connected and productive from day one.

Why read this guide?

Even if you've planned an office move before, the London commercial property market is ever evolving. For instance, the demand for flexible workspaces has surged, with a 14% year-over-year increase in inquiries for flexible office spaces in the first half of 2024. Understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions that align with your business objectives.

Vorboss has been involved in hundreds of office moves, helping businesses sidestep connectivity delays and operational headaches. We know what works, and we’re here to help you make informed decisions for a stress-free move.

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London's office relocation landscape

London’s office market has proven to be incredibly resilient. In 2024, the Central London office leasing market recorded a total take-up of 9.68 million sq ft – a 1% increase from the previous year. A key driver? Businesses seeking high-quality, flexible spaces that fit their evolving working models.

The demand for flexible workspaces is particularly strong, with occupancy rates climbing to 83% on average in early 2024 – and as high as 88% in key areas like Southwark and the City. If you’re considering a flexible lease, getting ahead of the curve is essential.

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Things to consider when moving office

Planning an office move isn’t just a logistical challenge, it’s a strategic initiative that can significantly impact your business. Here are some of the reasons why planning an office move with real care is essential.

Ensuring a smooth process

A well-planned move means fewer headaches, from packing up years of accumulated ‘stuff’, to setting up your new space. Breaking it into clear stages with assigned responsibilities ensures everything runs on time and on budget.

Avoiding unecessary costs

Office relocations can get expensive. A detailed budget from the outset that includes all anticipated expenses - moving services, IT setup, rent, service charges, utilities and office redesign - reduces the risk of overspending.  

Meeting lease obligations & avoiding legal issues

Moving out isn’t just about handing back the keys - you must meet your landlord’s requirements, including cleaning, repairs, and restoring the space. Be mindful of hidden costs such as dilapidation clauses, which may require restoring the space to its original condition upon lease termination. Factor this in early to avoid surprises.

Negotiating lease flexibility‍

In an evolving market, flexible lease terms can provide the agility to adapt to changing business needs. Consider options that allow for scalability or early termination without significant penalties.

Minimising downtime‍

Business continuity is critical, and even a day of disruption can impact your bottom line. A well-thought-out plan ensures your operations continue with minimal interruptions. For example, respecifying and pre-installing IT and connectivity in your new office allows your team to hit the ground running on day one.

‍Collaborating effectively with stakeholders‍

Moving office involves input from multiple stakeholders; colleagues, service providers, and landlords. Open communication and regular updates ensure everyone is on the same page, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or last-minute surprises.

‍Creating a positive experience for your team‍

A well-planned office move shows your commitment to employee comfort and productivity.  

Proper planning for your office relocation is about more than logistics; it’s about safeguarding your operations and setting the stage for growth. By taking a strategic approach, you can turn the challenge of moving into an opportunity to enhance your business.

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How to prepare for moving office

Successful moves hinge on clear communication, precise planning, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Here’s how to prepare for an office move with ease:  

Set your timeline‍

When you’re planning an office move, determine your moving date and work backwards from there to create a detailed schedule of tasks. Ensure you allow sufficient time for preparation, including securing service providers, notifying stakeholders, and completing physical packing.  

‍Assess your space requirements‍

Evaluate your current and future needs, considering team size, growth projections, and the nature of your operations.

‍Put together a ‘moving team’‍

Assign specific responsibilities to a dedicated team of your own people or hire a professional relocation company. Allocating clear roles ensures accountability and streamlines decision-making.  

Audit your current space‍

Conduct a thorough assessment of your existing office. Sort through equipment, furniture, and files – decide what to move, sell of recycle.  

Plan your new layout‍

Work with a space designer or team member to develop the floor plan for the new office. Think about workflow optimisation, employee comfort, and what you might need in the future to deal with expansion. Oh! And don’t forget essential areas like meeting rooms, breakout spaces, and places to accommodate IT infrastructure.

‍Prioritise IT & connectivity‍

This is where we see the biggest mistakes! Vorboss has helped numerous companies recover from underestimating connectivity lead times. Start early to ensure your new office has the right internet speed, bandwidth, and security from day one. But, if you have left it a bit late, we do have a Rapid Install service, which you can find here. ‍

Give everyone warning

Tell all your clients, suppliers, and service providers that you are moving office ahead of time. Provide them with clear timelines and your new address to avoid interruptions. Update your website and social media with the new address. ‍

Schedule utilities and services‍

Confirm the installation of all the key utilities such as electricity, water, and internet well before moving day. Choose suppliers that you can trust, and understand your office move requirements – there's often more choice than you think.  

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A timeline of everything you need to think about when moving office

Knowing how to timeline an office move can be daunting, but by anticipating potential challenges and allowing room for unexpected setbacks, you’ll ensure a smoother transition.

To help with this, we’ve blocked out a typical move timeline:

6-12 months before the move

Define your needs

Identify the reasons for the move and create a list of must-haves for the new space. Think about size, future growth, location, and required facilities to ensure the new office will meet your business needs.

Secure your new location

The demand for flexible office space in London has increased, with occupancy reaching 83% on average. If you’re considering a flexible lease, start early to secure the best options.

Establish a budget

Develop a comprehensive budget for the office relocation. Include contingency funds to cover unexpected expenses.

3-6 months before the move

Get your suppliers sorted

Surround yourself with pros. Hire professional movers, fit-out companies (if needed), and IT specialists to ensure your relocation goes smoothly. Book them in early to avoid last-minute scrambling.

Plan your connectivity

Work closely with a good business internet provider to ensure seamless service. This step is critical for maintaining business continuity and productivity from day one.

Notify your team

Keep everyone in your company informed about the move and provide them with regular updates. Share a timeline and what to expect during the transition.

1-3 months before the move

Begin packing

If doing it yourself, organise your packing process systematically. Label boxes clearly with their contents and their destination within the new space.

Update addresses

Notify your clients, suppliers, and service providers of your change of address. Prepare to update your business listings, website, and marketing materials.  

Test IT systems

Arrange for your IT and connectivity systems to be tested rigorously before moving across. This way, you can be sure that critical services such as the internet and phones are operational before your team arrives. Any good connectivity supplier should offer to connect your office ahead of your move-in date to ensure a smooth transition, wavering the cost of any cross-over to avoid being double-charged.  

Moving day

Oversee the process

Assign a trusted team member (even if that is yourself) to supervise the move. Choose someone who can handle unexpected issues and ensure that everything arrives at, is installed into, and functions properly in the new location as planned.

Prioritise essential systems

Prioritise real-world troubleshooting of IT infrastructure, connectivity, and other essential services on the day. This guarantees that your team will be able to resume work efficiently, no matter what.  

Post-move

Do a walkthrough

However thoroughly you planned your office move, once you are in you need to inspect the new space carefully to ensure everything is in order. Check for damage, missing items, and other issues that need immediate attention.

Celebrate with your team

Planning an office move and continuing to function as a business while the relocation is underway, are great achievements. So, be sure to acknowledge the hard work all round that’s gone into the move and celebrate - you’ve earned it!  

By following this timeline, you’ll have the basis for your own step-by-step approach to managing and planning your office move efficiently. Working through these stages will enable you to reduce stress (both for yourself and your colleagues) and set the business up for a flying start in its new home.

What to look for in a business internet supplier when moving office  

Moving office is stressful enough without getting stuck in a bad internet contract. Unfortunately, we speak to too many businesses who only realise the fine print has tripped them up when it’s too late. Before you sign anything, here are five things to check: ‍

Mid-contract price increases

Some providers sneak in clauses that let them hike your prices during your contract. That means you could sign up at one price and end up paying much more down the line. If your business needs cost certainty (who’s doesn’t?), ensure you’re locked into a fair price for the whole term.

Auto-renewals

Not all contracts end when you expect them to. Some providers auto-renew you into another long-term deal without much warning, making it hard to leave when you need to. Check the small print and set a reminder well before your contract is up.

Service guarantees vs. empty promises

Your provider might say you’ll get ‘up to’ a certain speed, but is that guaranteed or just a target? If a stable connection is critical for your business, look for providers that commit to actual performance, not just marketing buzzwords. If you’re buying a broadband grade service, your speeds are almost definitely not guaranteed so make sure your connection is dedicated to your business, find out more about that here.  

Compensation without the hassle

If your internet goes down, will your provider compensate you automatically, or will you have to fight for it? Some suppliers make you jump through hoops to claim what you’re owed, knowing most businesses won’t have the time. A good provider makes things right without the headache.

Do they own their network?

Moving office comes with enough deadlines - your internet install shouldn’t be another thing keeping you up at night. Check if your provider owns and controls its own network or if they’re relying on third-party contractors for installation. If they don’t have full control, delays can stack up, leaving you without internet when you need it most.  

Bottom line? Don’t just sign what’s put in front of you. Ask questions, push for clarity, and make sure your internet service works for your business - not the other way around.

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2025 Commercial real estate trends to think about

An increased demand for sustainable, premium offices

Market consolidations

Hybrid working

How Vorboss can make switching internet as easy as possible when moving office

Moving office gives you the ideal opportunity to reconsider your connectivity needs - especially if part of your move is to support company expansion. While switching internet service provider (ISP) during an office relocation might seem like a daunting task, we have a whole host of solutions to help support your move – even if you’re on a tight deadline:

Expert support every step of the way

Vorboss provides dedicated support throughout the relocation process, from initial planning and infrastructure assessment to post-move optimisation. Your dedicated, London-based account manager will help you address any challenges and ensure your internet service aligns perfectly with your business requirements.

The Rapid Install advantage

Vorboss’s Rapid Install service is a game-changer if you’re looking to minimise downtime as you prepare for an office move. We designed this service to provide high-speed internet installation on a tight timeline, so you can be certain your new office will be fully operational from the moment your team walks through the door. Unlike others, we’ll work to your timeline.

Dedicated fibre connectivity

So, you’ll never have to worry about connectivity again. Unlike broadband, which is split among multiple users, Vorboss provides each business with its own fibre line. We built the network from the ground up with our own teams, which means we can ensure the quality and reliability of your connectivity.

Switching internet services doesn’t have to be a headache. Get access to tailored connectivity solutions, expert support, and industry-leading reliability. Let’s chat!

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