by Ricardo Bezuidenhout, Senior Network Engineer

As we approach the halfway mark of 2025, South Africa’s small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) continue to face mounting networking challenges. From cyber threats and load-shedding to the complexity of hybrid work and IoT integration, the pressure on IT infrastructure is not easing up.

Navigating these realities requires a measured, practical approach.  One that prioritises security, resilience, and scalability without unnecessary complexity or cost.  At Duxbury Networking, we support South African SMBs through our national network of trusted channel partners, delivering solutions grounded in experience, technical expertise, and real-world understanding.

Here’s a breakdown of what we see shaping the rest of 2025 and the steps SMBs can take to stay on track.

Cybersecurity: The Threats Keep Growing

Cyberattacks are becoming more frequent and more targeted, with SMBs often seen as the easiest entry point. Limited IT capacity, unpatched systems, and risky remote access setups make these businesses vulnerable.

What SMBs can do:

• Apply layered security.  Firewalls, endpoint protection, and secure user access all play a role.
• Update systems and devices regularly to patch known vulnerabilities.
• Adopt a zero-trust model to verify every login, user, and device – no exceptions!

Hybrid Work: Still a Work in Progress

While hybrid work is now the norm for many, managing network access across locations remains a major operational headache. Ensuring performance and security for both office-based and remote teams is still a balancing act.

What SMBs can do:

• Use cloud-managed platforms to centralise control of their network.
• Move beyond basic VPNs.  Technologies like SD-WAN offer better efficiency and reliability.
• Ensure their setup can scale without having to start from scratch.

Infrastructure: Battling Downtime and Disruptions

Unreliable power and connectivity remain consistent threats, particularly for smaller businesses that rely on digital platforms for sales and service delivery.

What SMBs can do:

• Set up LTE failover or fibre redundancy for business continuity.
• Protect critical networking equipment with UPS systems.
• Routinely check that their infrastructure can support peak usage without bottlenecks.

Scaling with Limited Budgets

Budget constraints continue to drive short-term fixes but often create long-term problems. SMBs need cost-effective ways to grow their networks without starting over each time.

What SMBs can do:

• Invest in modular systems that allow for incremental upgrades.
• Consider operational expenditure (OPEX) models like subscriptions or leasing options.
• Focus on tech that delivers clear returns, including efficiency, uptime, and better customer service.

IoT Integration: Managing the Flood of Devices

Whether in retail, logistics, or agriculture, more SMBs are introducing IoT devices into their networks, but often without the tools or planning to manage them securely.

What SMBs can do:

• Use IoT management platforms for visibility and control.
• Segment IoT devices on the network to contain security risks.
• Explore edge computing to reduce latency and improve performance in real time.

Looking Ahead

The second half of 2025 will test the adaptability of South Africa’s SMBs. While challenges remain, a proactive approach to building smarter, more resilient networks can create real competitive advantages.

At Duxbury Networking, we’re focused on helping local businesses make practical technology decisions backed by proven solutions, technical support, and over four decades of experience in the South African market. Our world-class product portfolio caters for a wide range of business needs, from entry-level to enterprise-grade solutions, including our in-house brand, DuxNet, designed specifically for the local environment.

We go to market exclusively through a trusted network of channel partners, ensuring SMBs have access to tailored expertise, scalable solutions, and ongoing support, wherever they are.

For more information contact Duxbury Networking at +27 (0) 11 351 9800, info@duxnet.co.za, www.duxbury.co.za