For years, VMware has been the backbone of virtualization for organizations of every size. It was reliable, flexible, and accessible whether you were a Fortune 500 company or a regional business with a single rack of servers. That balance shifted in 2025, when Broadcom restructured VMware’s business model to focus more on the enterprise market, leaving many small and mid-sized businesses to re-evaluate their long-term strategies.
A License Model That Raises the Stakes
One of the biggest changes has been VMware’s move from a 16-core to a 72-core licensing minimum. For smaller environments, this adjustment translates into annual support costs that can climb from around $2,000 to $10,000 or more.
Other updates have reshaped how customers consume VMware technology:
Partner Program Realignment
Broadcom has also streamlined the VMware partner program, reducing the number of smaller resellers and emphasizing Select, Premier, and Pinnacle partners with advanced VMware Cloud Foundation capabilities.
This realignment ensures consistent enterprise expertise across VMware’s partner ecosystem, but it also means that many customers are now working with larger providers instead of local or regional IT firms. For some organizations, that can translate into:
Why It Matters
Broadcom’s strategy is designed to maximize the long-term value of its $69 billion VMware acquisition. The focus is clearly on enterprise-scale customers. For small and mid-market organizations, this signals that VMware may no longer be the most cost-effective or flexible choice over time.
The impact isn’t just financial. It’s about having the right level of support, predictability in operations, and flexibility to align IT decisions with business goals.
Exploring Alternatives
The positive outcome of this disruption is that it has accelerated interest in alternative platforms. Several options are already proving themselves as strong candidates for organizations looking to transition:
We’re already seeing increased adoption of Hyper-V, Scale Computing, and cloud-native migrations. Even Microsoft 365 services are filling roles for smaller organizations where VMware once served as the backbone.
A Moment to Plan With the Right Partner
Migrating away from VMware, or even optimizing how it fits into your environment today, isn’t something that can be done overnight. It takes planning, testing, and a clear roadmap. The landscape is shifting quickly, and waiting too long can mean facing higher costs, renewal surprises, or fewer partner options.
At Aktion, we understand the challenges this creates for small and mid-market organizations. Our team works every day with businesses navigating infrastructure changes, whether that means evaluating public cloud options, designing a hybrid strategy, or moving to hyperconverged platforms.
We believe the right path forward isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about understanding your workloads, your budget, and your growth goals, then building a technology strategy that supports them. VMware remains a powerful solution for the right use cases, but the broader message is clear: organizations need to be proactive. Aktion is here to help guide you through the uncertainty, evaluate alternatives, and create a roadmap that keeps your IT aligned with the future of your business.
If audits feel scary and cyber risk keeps you up at night, this fast‑paced session is for you. On Thursday, October 16, 2025, 12:00–12:45 PM ET (9:00–9:45 AM PT) we’ll walk through a six‑stage, no‑nonsense roadmap that takes you from reactive firefighting to resilience—just in time for Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
Why a Roadmap (Not Just More Tools)
Tool sprawl, ad‑hoc projects, and last‑minute audit scrambles can turn your environment into haunted‑house IT. A structured roadmap fixes that. Each stage builds practical proof points (artifacts, reports, and remediations) that leadership and insurers actually care about – without detours or rework.
What You’ll Learn in this 45 Minutes Webinar
The 6‑Stage Risk → Resilience Roadmap
1) Discovery & Awareness — See what attackers already know.
Phishing Snapshot/Simulation, Dark Web Credential Check, BECA (Employee Secure Score). You’ll get quantified people/credential risk and an executive‑level readout.
2) Credential & Access Hardening — Close the crypt.
MFA rollout (incl. admins), password manager adoption, RDP/attack‑surface cleanup. Reduce privileged pathways and stop easy break‑ins.
3) Email & Communication Security — Keep the door shut.
SPF/DKIM/DMARC alignment, auto‑forward rule audit/monitoring. Block spoofing and silent exfiltration through inbox rules.
4) Data Resilience & Recovery — Raise your data from the grave.
Test restores, validate RPO/RTO, ensure cloud/endpoints are covered. Prove recovery is possible before ransomware strikes.
5) Baseline Security & Compliance — From hocus‑pocus → to hard evidence.
Tenant baseline (e.g., M365/Azure AD), firewall cleanup, public storage exposure checks. Produce artifacts auditors and insurers accept.
6) Resilience & Strategic Prep — When the lights flicker, everyone knows what to do.
Vuln scan + remediation sprint; Incident Response plan (roles, comms, call trees); tabletop test outline; policy pack mapped to CIS v8 IG1.
Register now (Oct 16, 12pm ET)
Who Should Attend
Why Now
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month – a perfect time to align leadership, budget, and projects around a clear plan. This session is short, practical, and geared toward immediate next steps, with take‑home checklists and a 30‑minute optional follow‑up briefing.
Event Details & Registration
Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025
As a distributor, the challenges you face today, force you to rethink how you do business. Challenges that can include new customer expectations, the need for big data insight as well as adjusting to a more technologically familiar workforce and their expanding expectations. Old processes and approaches just don’t cut it anymore.
You need a solution that drives the rest of your business to be even more agile than the people and processes it supports. We are here to help prepare and to assist you in transitioning to Infor CloudSuite Distribution.
Register and reserve your place today.
In the distribution industry, uptime isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. From warehouse automation to connected inventory systems, every second counts. But as technology advances, so do the risks, and many distributors are learning the hard way that cyber insurance doesn’t always cover what they think it does.
In our upcoming Cyber Insurance Readiness Webinar, we explore how your answers on cyber insurance applications can directly impact claim approvals, policy premiums, and even your operational continuity. Here’s what every distribution business needs to know.
Cyberattacks can cripple warehouse operations, delay shipments, and compromise vendor or customer data. And yet, many distributors unknowingly jeopardize their cyber insurance coverage by misrepresenting their network security posture.
For example, saying “yes” to having backup and recovery procedures in place means more than backing up data once a month. In the Distribution Industry, this should include automated and encrypted backups of key operational systems, such as order processing, inventory management, and ERP platforms, with tested restoration protocols to minimize downtime during ransomware or system failure.
Here are the five most common areas where distributors fall short, yet still check “yes” on insurance forms:
During the webinar, we will share how a distributor reported full MFA coverage but had only deployed it for the finance team. A phishing attack targeting their warehouse management system led to data theft and significant delivery delays. Their claim was denied due to misrepresentation.
One Wrong Answer Could Cost You Coverage – Stay protected and insurable.
At Aktion, we specialize in supporting the security needs of ERP-driven distributors. Our cybersecurity risk management services include:
Get Ahead of What You Need to be Prepared:
Join our webinar “Understanding the Questions On Cyber Insurance Forms” – June 18 @ 12:00 pm ET – Register Today
And
Schedule a security consultation with Aktion to strengthen your defenses and protect your coverage. Schedule My Review
As a distributor, the challenges you face today, force you to rethink how you do business. Challenges that can include new customer expectations, the need for big data insight as well as adjusting to a more technologically familiar workforce and their expanding expectations. Old processes and approaches just don’t cut it anymore.
You need a solution that drives the rest of your business to be even more agile than the people and processes it supports. We are here to help prepare and to assist you in transitioning to Infor CloudSuite Distribution.
Register and reserve your place today.
In today’s digital landscape, no business is safe from cyber threats. Join our summit to learn how to protect your company from devastating cyberattacks.
In this informative session, you’ll learn:
This event is ideal for business owners, IT professionals, and security managers who are dedicated to protecting their company’s data and reputation.
Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly more prominent. You might think that your data isn’t valuable – We will help you learn why that thinking may change. Empower yourself with the knowledge and tools to protect your most valuable asset – your company data!
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Register now to secure your spot at the Cybersecurity Awareness Summit and protect your business from cyber threats!
The step-by-step incident response playbook that could save your business millions
In this comprehensive 60-minute webinar, we’ll move beyond theory to provide you with actionable, real-world strategies for responding to and recovering from cyber attacks. Whether you’re updating an existing incident response plan or building one from scratch, you’ll leave with practical tools and templates you can implement immediately.
Agenda
Who Should Attend
Data breaches can have devastating consequences for businesses, affecting both their finances and reputation. At the Cybersecurity Awareness Summit 2024, we will delve into the true cost of data breaches and discuss how to mitigate these risks.
The financial impact of a data breach can be substantial. According to recent studies, the average cost of a data breach in the United States is over $8 million. This cost includes a range of expenses, from immediate response efforts to long-term reputational damage. When a breach occurs, businesses must invest in forensic investigations to determine the extent of the compromise and identify the cause. This often requires hiring external experts and deploying specialized tools, which can be costly.
In addition to the direct costs, businesses may face regulatory fines and legal fees. Many industries are subject to strict data protection regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA, which mandate specific security measures and reporting requirements. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in significant fines. Furthermore, affected customers or partners may pursue legal action, leading to additional legal expenses and potential settlements.
Operational disruption is another significant cost associated with data breaches. When a breach occurs, businesses often need to shut down systems or limit access to contain the incident and prevent further damage. This disruption can lead to lost revenue, particularly for organizations that rely heavily on online transactions or digital services. The time and resources required to restore normal operations and ensure the integrity of systems can further exacerbate the financial impact.
Beyond the immediate financial costs, data breaches can cause long-lasting reputational damage. Customers, partners, and stakeholders expect businesses to protect their data, and a breach can erode trust and confidence. News of a breach can spread quickly, particularly with the rise of social media, leading to negative publicity and damaged brand reputation. Rebuilding trust and repairing reputational damage often requires significant investment in public relations and marketing efforts.
The loss of customer trust can also have a direct impact on revenue. Customers who lose confidence in a business’s ability to protect their data may take their business elsewhere, leading to lost sales and diminished customer loyalty. Attracting new customers can become more challenging as potential clients may be wary of associating with a business that has experienced a data breach.
To mitigate these risks, businesses must invest in robust cybersecurity measures. This includes implementing comprehensive security policies and procedures, investing in advanced security technologies, and providing ongoing training for employees. Regular security assessments and audits can help identify vulnerabilities and ensure that security measures are effective.
At the Cybersecurity Awareness Summit 2024, experts will discuss strategies to prevent data breaches and minimize their impact. Attendees will learn about the latest tools and techniques for detecting and responding to incidents, as well as best practices for protecting sensitive data.
Protect your business from costly data breaches – secure your spot at the summit today!
The digital landscape is constantly changing, and so are the threats that target businesses. From sophisticated phishing schemes to ransomware attacks, the methods used by cybercriminals are becoming increasingly advanced. At the upcoming Cybersecurity Awareness Summit 2024, we will explore the latest trends in cyber threats and provide strategies to stay ahead of these evolving dangers.
Cyber threats are not a static phenomenon; they evolve in response to new technologies, defensive measures, and the changing behavior of users and organizations. Understanding these evolving threats is crucial for businesses that aim to protect their data, maintain their reputation, and avoid costly breaches.
One of the most significant changes in the cyber threat landscape is the rise of ransomware attacks. These attacks have become more sophisticated and targeted, with cybercriminals often conducting extensive reconnaissance before launching an attack. Ransomware can cripple an organization by encrypting its data and demanding a ransom for its release. The impact of such an attack can be devastating, leading to significant financial losses and operational downtime.
Phishing attacks remain a prevalent threat, evolving in complexity and sophistication. Cybercriminals use social engineering techniques to trick employees into revealing sensitive information or installing malware. These attacks often appear as legitimate emails from trusted sources, making them difficult to detect. Training employees to recognize phishing attempts and implementing robust email security measures are essential steps in mitigating this risk.
Another emerging threat is the exploitation of vulnerabilities in Internet of Things (IoT) devices. As businesses increasingly rely on connected devices, the attack surface for cybercriminals expands. Many IoT devices lack robust security features, making them easy targets for attackers. Ensuring that IoT devices are securely configured and regularly updated is critical in protecting against these threats.
The growing use of cloud services also introduces new security challenges. While cloud providers invest heavily in security, the responsibility for securing data in the cloud is shared between the provider and the user. Misconfigurations and inadequate access controls can lead to data breaches and other security incidents. Businesses must adopt best practices for cloud security, including regular audits, encryption, and strong access controls.
Advanced persistent threats (APTs) are another area of concern. APTs involve prolonged and targeted cyberattacks, often orchestrated by well-funded and skilled adversaries. These attackers aim to gain long-term access to sensitive data and can remain undetected for extended periods. Detecting and responding to APTs requires advanced security measures, such as threat intelligence, continuous monitoring, and incident response planning.
In addition to these specific threats, the overall cyber threat landscape is influenced by geopolitical factors. Nation-state actors engage in cyber espionage and sabotage, targeting critical infrastructure and sensitive information. Businesses must stay informed about these broader trends and consider their potential impact on cybersecurity.
At the Cybersecurity Awareness Summit 2024, experts will discuss these evolving threats in detail and share insights on how businesses can enhance their cybersecurity posture. Attendees will learn about the latest tools and techniques to detect and respond to cyber threats, as well as best practices for securing their digital assets.
Don’t miss out on this essential knowledge – register for the summit today! Empower yourself with the information and strategies needed to stay ahead of cybercriminals and protect your organization from evolving cyber threats.
In the sectors of architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC), distribution, and manufacturing, the integrity of your digital infrastructure is paramount. As industries evolve and become increasingly digitized, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been greater. Security officers, IT directors, and compliance officers are on the front lines of this battle, tasked with safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring operational continuity. This is where Managed Security Services (MSS) come into play, offering a comprehensive solution to meet these critical needs.
The Growing Importance of Cybersecurity
The AEC, distribution, and manufacturing sectors face unique challenges when it comes to cybersecurity. These industries are not only dealing with large volumes of sensitive data but also with complex supply chains and interconnected systems. Cyberattacks can lead to significant disruptions, financial loss, and damage to reputation. Therefore, a proactive approach to cybersecurity is essential.
Key Benefits of Managed Security Services
Why C-Level Executives, Security Officers, IT Directors, and Compliance Officers Should Consider MSS
Tailored Solutions for AEC, Distribution, and Manufacturing
Every industry has unique security requirements, and MSS providers understand this. They offer tailored solutions that address the specific needs of the AEC, distribution, and manufacturing sectors. Whether it’s protecting intellectual property, securing supply chains, or ensuring the integrity of manufacturing processes, MSS can provide the necessary protection.
In an era where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, Managed Security Services offer a reliable and effective solution for safeguarding your digital assets. For C-Level executives, security officers, IT directors, and compliance officers in the AEC, distribution, and manufacturing sectors, MSS provides the peace of mind that comes from knowing your organization is protected by industry-leading expertise and technology.
Ready to take your cybersecurity to the next level? Contact Aktion Associates today to learn how our Managed Security Services can protect your business from evolving threats and ensure your digital independence. Let us help you stay secure, compliant, and ahead of the curve. Get in touch with our experts now and safeguard your future.
