New Tech in Ireland: Regulators, Crypto and 14,000-Game Libraries Fuel Casino Innovation

You’ve probably noticed Ireland taking bold steps to modernise its gambling framework. In October 2024, the Gambling Regulation Act was passed, replacing outdated laws and introducing a clear system to manage the entire sector. At the centre of this shift is the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland or GRAI, which officially began operating in March 2025. It is the first independent body to oversee licencing, compliance and player safety on a nationwide scale.

The government has already committed over nine million euros to fund its operations in 2025, including four million dedicated to building digital infrastructure. For you as a player, this represents the beginning of a far more structured environment where consistency replaces uncertainty. licencing and enforcement are being phased in rather than rushed, with the regulator taking time to establish proper compliance systems. That means while sweeping change is underway, you’ll see new casino sites unfold gradually in a way designed to balance stability with progress.

Licencing Rollout and Player Safeguards

licencing will arrive in stages, and you’ll start to see changes by mid-2025. Remote operators are expected to move into the new framework from July, while bookmakers are scheduled to follow by December. However, the full licencing regime won’t be enforced until mid-2026, giving the regulator and operators time to adapt. During this transition period, existing licences issued through Revenue will remain valid, so you won’t suddenly lose access to your favourite platforms.

When the full framework is active, however, you will experience more meaningful protections. A national self-exclusion register will allow you to block access across all licenced providers with a single action. Advertising rules will also change, with gambling ads banned before 9 p.m. on television and online and promotions like free bets or VIP perks removed altogether. For you, this shift means fewer aggressive offers and a healthier balance between enjoyment and protection, helping the market move away from practices that often left players feeling pressured.

Crypto Regulation Meets Casino Innovation

Alongside gambling reform, cryptocurrency rules are also tightening across Ireland. The Central Bank is now the official supervisor of the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets framework or MiCA, which is reshaping how digital assets are handled. By 2025, crypto firms must hold EU-wide licences, follow strict rules on custody and cybersecurity and provide detailed sender and receiver information for transfers above one thousand euros. This adds extra transparency to a space that once felt unregulated.

For you as a player, that translates into greater confidence when using crypto to deposit or withdraw. Casinos are beginning to explore this regulated crypto landscape by offering faster payments, lower transaction fees and, in some cases, unique crypto-based promotions. Innovation is encouraged, yet it sits within a system designed to maintain trust. You may find yourself trying out a platform that supports your preferred digital currency while also appreciating that it complies with rules intended to keep the financial side of play safer.

Vast Game Libraries Fuel Innovation

One of the most noticeable changes in the new casino environment is the sheer scale of game libraries; in recent years, operators have moved from offering a few thousand titles to collections that now exceed ten thousand, with some topping fourteen thousand games. These libraries span slots, table games, live dealer formats and even experimental categories that borrow from video gaming. When you log in, you are presented with an unprecedented range of options, allowing you to tailor your experience to your mood or curiosity.

Mobile optimisation has made this vast choice accessible anywhere and the integration of crypto payments adds another layer of convenience. However, with so many options, it’s easy to lose track of time or budget, which is why platforms are also embedding responsible play features. Thus, deposit limits, time reminders and self-exclusion tools are now common, giving you control alongside variety. The trend demonstrates how innovation in scale can coexist with meaningful safeguards, so your experience feels equally exciting and manageable.

Balancing Innovation and Protection

As innovation flourishes, the real challenge is balancing it with protection. The GRAI has placed consumer safety at the heart of its mission, establishing a dedicated Social Impact Fund. licenced operators will contribute annually, with the money going toward research, public education and treatment services for problem gambling. That means every spin, bet or wager indirectly supports efforts to make the industry more sustainable. At the same time, crypto regulation creates clarity rather than restriction, letting you enjoy the benefits of digital assets without the sense of stepping into a grey area.

Meanwhile, expansive game libraries showcase how developers are pushing boundaries, while the growing emphasis on mobile usability reflects how people actually play today. For you, the path forward involves navigating this mix with awareness: checking whether platforms are properly licenced, confirming safe-play tools are available and choosing experiences that balance excitement with responsibility. Ireland’s evolving landscape shows that progress and protection can genuinely coexist, giving you more control and more choice than ever.

Key Takeaways

Ireland’s gaming terrain is developing at a remarkable pace, blending cutting-edge technology, expansive game libraries and tighter regulatory oversight. As a player, you benefit from greater choice, enhanced protections and innovative payment options like crypto, all within a structured and transparent framework. The combination of strong governance and rapid technological growth promises a safer, more engaging and forward-looking experience, showing that innovation and responsibility can grow hand in hand.

  • €9.1m Budget Powers New Regulator: Ireland’s Gambling Regulatory Authority launched in 2025 with €9.1m in funding, including €4m for digital infrastructure.
  • 14,000+ Games Now Available: Irish online platforms feature vast libraries, with some exceeding 14,000 titles across slots, tables and live games.
  • Strict Ad Bans Protect Players: Gambling ads are banned between 5:30 a.m. and 9 p.m., with free bets and VIP perks also prohibited.

Finalists Announced for the 2025 Repak Resource Awards

Repak announced the finalists for the 2025 Repak Resource Awards. The newly named awards which replace the Pakman Awards are Ireland’s leading environmental and sustainability awards, and celebrate Ireland’s leaders in waste prevention, reuse, circular design, and community-led environmental initiatives.
The addition of two new categories; the Circular Community Award and the Circular Design Award celebrate community-led efforts and innovation in sustainable design. Each category in the programme highlights the creativity, leadership and impact of businesses tackling Ireland’s pressing environmental challenges.
Finalists this year include Dairygold Co-Operative Society, Meath Camogie, Rubbish Film Festival, An Post and the Paint Reuse Network. Community projects by Joe Bonner, Food Cloud, and Blessington Tourist Office & Blessington Allotments have also been shortlisted. This year, twelve winners will be announced at a ceremony at The Shelbourne Hotel on Thursday, 23rd October 2025.
The Repak Resource Awards are regarded as one of the most prestigious accolades in the environmental sector, honouring those who lead in sustainability and environmental efforts, including grassroots initiatives, design innovations and cross-sector collaboration, which are becoming essential drivers of circular change.
Each category winner is eligible for the Overall Repak Resource Award, which celebrates outstanding achievements in recycling and waste management, innovation and grassroots environmental action.
Further finalists include Flamers Ltd in the Innovation in Waste Resource Products or Services award category, IQUTECH in the Battery & WEEE Champion award category and Badger & Dodo in the Circular Design award category. Nominees for the ESG Leader award include Jason Carolan from Aldi, Kurt Kyck fromKMK Metals Recycling and Dr Sarah Miller from the Rediscovery Centre.
Commenting on the announcement of the 2025 Repak Resource Awards finalists, Repak CEO, Zoe Kavanagh said: “We have received an unprecedented number of entries, and I am delighted to announce the category finalists for the 2025 Repak Resource Awards. By expanding the focus beyond traditional waste management, the Repak Resource Awards aim to capture the full spectrum of circular innovation happening across the country.
The Repak Resource Awards recognise businesses, organisations, and community initiatives that demonstrate exceptional dedication not only to recycling and waste management, but also innovation in circular design, responsible resource use, and grassroots environmental action. We are excited to celebrate those who are leading the way to a greener, sustainable future for Ireland, and we look forward to welcoming all finalists to the awards ceremony on Thursday, 23rd October.”
The complete list of finalists for the Repak Resource Awards 2025 includes:
·         Battery and WEEE Champion
o    Castletroy College
o    IQUTECH
o    Aldi
·         Business Recycling Champion
o    Swords Pavilions
o    Boots Ireland
o    Dairygold Co-Operative Society
·         Environmental Education and Community Initiative
o    Rubbish Film Festival
o    Regional Waste Management Planning Offices
o    Dublin City Farm & Ecology Centre
·         Innovation in Waste Resource Products or Services
o    KMK Metals Recycling Ltd
o    Flamers Ltd
o    CJ Sheeran Limited
·         Circular Community Award
o    Food Cloud
o    Joe Bonner
o    Blessington Tourist Office & Blessington Allotments
·         Waste Prevention Award
o    Swords Pavilions
o    Rebox
o    The Paint Reuse Network
·         Waste Recovery Operator and Facility Award
o    KWD Recycling
o    LPP
o    Soltec
·         Circular Design Award
o    Kellanova
o    An Post
o    Badger & Dodo
·         Best Single-Use Plastic Initiative
o    Coghlan’s Bakery
o    Glenpatrick Spring Water Ltd & Kilkenny Nutritional Ltd
o    Shabra Plastics & Recycling Ltd
·         Best Deposit Return Initiative
o    Meals on Wheels Courtown
o    Lidl Ireland
o    Meath Camogie
·         Tyre Champion
o    Addible Ltd
o    Heffernan Tyres
·         ESG Leader Award

o

  • Kurt Kyck from KMK Metals Recycling
  • Jason Carolan from Aldi
The 2025 Repak Resource Awards are proudly sponsored by AMCS, Circol ELT, Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, DNV, Environmental Protection Agency, European Recycling Platform, Irish Waste Management Association (IWMA), Local Authorities of Ireland, Panda, Re-turn, and WEEE Ireland.
For more information, visit https://repak.ie/resource-awards

Ireland’s Ekco acquires UK’s Solsoft in latest rapid growth move

Ekco, one of Europe’s leading security-first managed service providers (MSPs), announced the acquisition of UK-based Solsoft Group Limited. Ekco, founded and headquartered in Dublin, is on an aggresive acquisition trail, with Solsoft marking its third acquisition this year.

Solsoft is a Bristol-headquartered MSP with over 26 years of experience delivering proactive IT services to small-and-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and not-for-profit organisations across the South and Southwest of the UK. Key sectors include legal services, construction, engineering, energy, health, and social care. The company’s 16-strong team will join Ekco’s workforce of more than 1,000 people globally across Ireland, UK, Netherlands, Malaysia, and South Africa.

Solsoft will form part of the Ekco MSP Division and expand Ekco’s capabilities in the UK market under the leadership of Cian Prendergast. The latest deal in Ekco’s ambitious growth strategy, Solsoft is the seventh company to be acquired by Ekco in the last two years. This acquisition follows the purchases of MSPs Radius and Adapt IT, marking another milestone in Ekco’s strategy to build a unified MSP platform across Europe.

Solsoft is led by Managing Director Neil Farnworth and Operations Director Ilona Clark, who together bring over 40 years of industry experience to the business.

Paul Nannetti, Chair of Ekco, said: “Solsoft is a fantastic addition to the Ekco MSP Division as we accelerate our expansion strategy and continue to grow our footprint and capabilities in key markets. Their long-standing commitment to proactive service and their alignment with industry best practices give us real confidence in a fast, effective integration and a stronger UK presence—delivered with the discipline and consistency our customers expect.”

Cian Prendergast, CEO of the Ekco MSP Division, said: “Having known Solsoft very well for many years, we have always admired their rock solid, client focused, proactive service in the UK. With Ekco’s world class expertise in security-first managed services and cutting-edge technology, this partnership is a perfect match – and we are looking forward to growing and learning together.”

Neil Farnworth, Managing Director of Solsoft, added: “Joining Ekco lets us bring more capability and resilience to our customers, backed by Ekco’s scale—while maintaining the responsiveness they value. Our aligned ways of working and approaches to service delivery means we can really hit the ground running.”

Key Concepts and Benefits of Zero Trust Network Access

The way organizations secure their networks has undergone significant changes in recent years. The traditional idea of a perimeter, where everything inside a corporate network could be trusted, is no longer valid. Cloud-first strategies, hybrid work models, and the widespread use of personal devices have blurred that boundary. As a result, businesses can no longer rely on firewalls and VPNs alone to keep their assets safe.

At the same time, the cyber threat landscape has become more sophisticated. Remote work has introduced new risks, and insider threats have grown more prominent. Cybercriminals now utilize advanced tools to exploit even the smallest vulnerabilities. This is why enterprises are moving toward a Zero Trust approach. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is at the forefront of this shift, offering a model where trust is never assumed but always verified. It is rapidly becoming the new standard for secure connectivity in modern IT ecosystems.

What Is Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)?

ZTNA is a security model designed to ensure that users and devices are verified before being granted access to applications or data. Unlike older approaches that trusted users inside a network, ZTNA operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” This means that every access attempt, whether from an employee in headquarters or a contractor working remotely, must be authenticated and authorized before any resources are made available.

The fundamental concept of ZTNA differs significantly from traditional VPNs and perimeter-based models. VPNs typically grant users broad access to the corporate network once they are authenticated, creating opportunities for attackers to move laterally if their credentials are compromised. In contrast, ZTNA provides application-level access, limiting exposure and making it much harder for threats to spread. This distinction is why ZTNA is increasingly viewed as the safer, smarter option for organizations looking to protect sensitive systems.

For enterprises adopting hybrid work strategies, ZTNA is a critical model for remote access security, as it enables secure, identity-based connections that adapt to context, devices, and policies. By focusing on granular access control and continuous verification, businesses can minimize risks while enabling flexible, productive remote work environments.

Key Concepts of ZTNA

Identity-Centric Security

Identity sits at the core of ZTNA. Before a user can connect, the system verifies their identity. Multi-factor authentication (MFA), combined with integration into identity providers, ensures that stolen passwords alone are not enough for attackers to gain entry. This focus on identity strengthens defenses against the most common entry points for cyberattacks.

Least-Privilege Access

ZTNA enforces the principle of least privilege, granting users only the specific permissions needed to perform their tasks. This reduces the potential attack surface by limiting exposure to it. If a single account is compromised, the damage is contained because the attacker cannot access more than what was explicitly granted.

Continuous Verification

Unlike older systems, where access is checked once and then trusted, ZTNA continuously monitors user activity to ensure ongoing trust. Authentication decisions adapt to risk levels, such as changes in device posture or unusual behavior. For example, if a user logs in from a new location or device, additional verification can be required before granting access.

Application-Level Segmentation

ZTNA enables organizations to segment applications, restricting access to specific resources rather than the entire network. This segmentation not only limits the blast radius of potential breaches but also helps organizations meet compliance standards by ensuring sensitive systems are isolated and better protected.

Core Benefits of ZTNA for Organizations

Reduced Attack Surface

By exposing applications only to authenticated and authorized users, ZTNA minimizes the number of entry points that attackers can target. Resources remain invisible to the public internet, lowering the likelihood of discovery and exploitation.

Stronger Remote and Hybrid Workforce Security

ZTNA is designed for today’s work environment, where employees, contractors, and third parties often access systems remotely. It ensures consistent security regardless of where users connect from, making it far more effective than VPNs in protecting distributed teams.

Improved User Experience

Traditional VPNs often slow down connections and frustrate users. ZTNA, by contrast, delivers faster and more seamless access to applications, without unnecessary overhead. This improves productivity while maintaining high levels of security.

Simplified IT and Policy Management

Centralized policy management enables IT teams to easily oversee access across diverse environments easily. Instead of dealing with complex network-level configurations, administrators can manage access policies at the application level, simplifying operations significantly.

Regulatory and Compliance Alignment

ZTNA helps organizations align with data protection and privacy regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS. By enforcing least-privilege access and logging every interaction, ZTNA provides the transparency and control required for compliance.

ZTNA in Action – Industry Applications

ZTNA is versatile and applies to multiple industries. In finance, it helps secure sensitive transactions and customer data while minimizing the risk of fraud. In healthcare, it plays a vital role in safeguarding telehealth platforms and connected medical devices that handle patient data. For educational institutions, ZTNA ensures that both students and faculty can access learning platforms securely from anywhere, providing a secure and seamless learning experience. In manufacturing, ZTNA protects IoT devices and industrial control systems that are increasingly being targeted by cybercriminals.

Industry insights from organizations such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) underscore the importance of Zero Trust principles for critical sectors. Their published guidance emphasizes the use of adaptive and context-aware controls to protect both IT and OT systems.

Challenges in Adopting ZTNA

Despite its benefits, ZTNA adoption comes with challenges. Integrating it with legacy systems can be complex, especially in industries that rely heavily rely on outdated infrastructure. User resistance is another hurdle; employees may initially find the verification process inconvenient compared to familiar VPN setups. Vendor lock-in also poses a risk, as businesses may become too dependent on a single provider, limiting their flexibility. These challenges can be managed with careful planning, phased rollouts, and clear communication about the long-term benefits.

Best Practices for Successful ZTNA Implementation

A successful ZTNA strategy starts with identifying the most critical applications and systems, then extending Zero Trust protections to those first. Integrating ZTNA with existing identity and access management tools ensures seamless user experiences while strengthening security. Deploying in phases allows IT teams to test and refine policies without disrupting operations. Continuous monitoring and policy refinement help organizations adapt to evolving threats.

Additional resources from the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and security hygiene in Zero Trust deployments, reinforcing the need for constant vigilance.

The Future of ZTNA

ZTNA continues to evolve in tandem with the broader Zero Trust ecosystem. Artificial intelligence and machine learning will increasingly play a role in adaptive access control, enabling real-time adjustments to policies based on context and behavior. Deeper integration with Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) frameworks will unify networking and security into a seamless cloud-delivered service. Moreover, small and medium-sized businesses are expected to adopt ZTNA at higher rates as cost-effective, scalable cloud-based solutions become widely available.

Reports from Gartner predict that ZTNA adoption will become a default requirement for enterprises moving to cloud-native architectures, with more organizations shifting away from VPNs entirely.

Conclusion

Zero Trust Network Access is no longer just a trend; it has become an essential part of modern cybersecurity strategies. By reducing the attack surface, providing stronger remote workforce security, simplifying policy management, and aligning with compliance needs, ZTNA empowers businesses to thrive in the digital era.

As enterprises face increasing threats and shifting work models, adopting ZTNA proactively is not just about protecting systems-it is about enabling innovation and resilience. Organizations that embrace ZTNA will be better positioned to safeguard their future in a constantly evolving cyber landscape.

FAQs

  1. How does ZTNA improve security compared to VPNs?

ZTNA offers application-specific access rather than network-wide access, reducing the potential for lateral movement and minimizing risks compared to VPNs.

  1. Is ZTNA suitable for small businesses?

Yes, cloud-based ZTNA solutions make it affordable and scalable for small and mid-sized businesses, not just large enterprises.

  1. Can ZTNA help with compliance requirements?

Absolutely. By enforcing least-privilege access, logging all activity, and segmenting applications, ZTNA supports compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and other regulatory frameworks.

STEALTH expands its range of cross platform light-up gaming accessories

STEALTH, one of the UK’s leading gaming accessories brands, has expanded its range of light-up gaming accessories to include more innovative lighting designs and premium features, ideal for bedrooms and gaming dens for gamers of all ages.

The latest collection includes stylish headsets with full RGB light-up earcup designs, headset stands with light-up trims and PC peripherals which add a splash of personality to any desk setup, whether that be for gaming, study or work.

All of the below products are available from high street retailers now, and are cross-platform compatible, including the Nintendo Switch 2. The timely launch makes them ideal gifts for Christmas.

In addition to its commitment to producing affordable, yet high quality gaming accessories, STEALTH also prioritises sustainability and was the first UK gaming brand to introduce 100% plastic-free packaging in 2018.

STEALTH RADAR Glow Headset

Price: £29.99

Available in black from Smyths

Available in White from Argos and Very

 

 

This stylish white LED aviator-style gaming headset by STEALTH features five animated RGB effects on the earcups for a fun and immersive gaming experience.

The 40mm speaker drivers deliver clear sound and a built-in mic with pop filter ensures clear streaming and chat functionality.

Compatible with PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox series X and S, PC, Nintendo Switch (including Switch 2), and Switch OLED.

STEALTH Radar Light-Up Night Sky Headset & Stand Bundle

Price: £49.99

Available from Smyths

 

Budding astronauts will love this night-sky themed matching LED headset and stand bundle by STEALTH. Perfect for kid’s bedrooms, both the stand and headset feature night-sky LEDs on the base of the stand and earcups of the headset, with 5 changeable RGB lighting effects.

The RADAR headset boasts 40mm speaker drivers for immersive sound and pop mic with filter for clear chat when gaming with friends. It also has additional charging ports to charge other devices.

Compatible with any headphone jack, so they can also be used for remote learning on desktops/mobile devices as well as gaming on many different platforms, including Nintendo Switch 2.

STEALTH Panther white LED headset

Price: £29.99

Available from Smyths

 

Previously only available in black, STEALTH has released its premium Panther headset with light-up ear cup trims in white, to coordinate with more consoles and colour schemes.

Multi-platform and lightweight, it has an adjustable headband and soft foam, breathable mesh earcups for comfort during long gaming sessions. The speakers offer high quality audio for immersive gameplay, while the pin-point mic and integrated audio controls make in-game chat functionality seamless and won’t disrupt the flow.

Its wired design, featuring a braided cable for extra durability, means set up couldn’t be easier – just plug and play.  Compatible with most gaming platforms thanks to the 3.5mm audio jack, including Playstation, Xbox, Nintendo (including Switch 2), PC and mobiles and tablets. Older Xbox One controllers may require a separate headset adaptor.

STEALTH Light-Up 3D Wired Gaming Mouse

Price: £12.99

Available from Argos

 

With a light-up 3D geometric design, this wired mouse from STEALTH is ideal for a PC gaming setup. Compatible with consoles and PCs, it has 13 static and animated lighting effects to choose from.

It has six sensitivity settings up to 7200dpi for selecting the perfect speed, making it perfect for gaming and regular use alike.

STEALTH Light-Up Wired Gaming Keyboard and Mouse

Price: £27.99

Available from Argos

 

Featuring a full-sized keyboard with numeric pad and four-button mouse, this matching light-up set has three different, co-ordinated, animated lighting effects, including breathing mode.

The keyboard has a 360 light-up base for creating the perfect gaming ambience on a desk. It also has silent click keys, so late night gaming sessions don’t disturb others, and anti-ghosting keys so that complex commands register correctly.

The mouse has adjustable sensitivity for different types of gameplay, four buttons and a scroll wheel.

See some gaming reviews

Irish family-owned Kepak invests in major digital overhaul

Family-owned Irish meat manufacturer, Kepak, has successfully completed a major Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O across its UK and Ireland estate, marking a significant step in its drive to futureproof business operations. The digital transformation project was delivered by Microsoft ERP, CRM, and Power Platform specialist, Nexer Enterprise Applications.

Kepak sources meat from thousands of farmers across Ireland, the UK and creates products to supply major retailers and foodservice chains including Tesco, Asda, Burger King, and McDonald’s.

Futureproofing the operational systems of a longstanding family business, Nexer replaced Kepak’s legacy Dynamics AX 2012 platform, which was no longer fit for purpose across supply chain, warehouse, and finance processes. This process ensured Kepak’s systems, from suppliers to the final customer-facing transaction, are future-proofed and will grow alongside the beloved, Irish, family-owned company. With Kepak sites already live and the UK rollout of the new systems now complete, the programme is in the final throes of implementation and moving into its post-live hyper-care phase.

Throughout the programme, Nexer consolidated Kepak’s operations by introducing a central billing team to replace site-by-site invoicing, thereby streamlining customer billing across all major accounts. At the same time, supply chain, warehouse and finance workflows were standardised onto a single Dynamics 365 platform, eliminating disparate systems across eight Irish and multiple UK facilities. Underpinning these improvements is a robust solution and production architecture, designed by Nexer’s technical and production architects, which ensures scalability for ongoing growth and future enhancements.

Jeremy O’Callahan, CIO of Kepak Group, commented:

“This transformation has been a true partnership. Replacing our end-of-life AX system with Dynamics 365 through Implement365 gives us the consistency and agility we need to support our farmers and customers alike. Nexer’s strategic support was critical to ensuring the implementation process went as smoothly as possible as business continued around it.”

Martin Burden, Commercial Director at Nexer Enterprise Applications, added:

“With Kepak, we’ve helped to futureproof their ever-evolving supply-chain, warehouse and finance operations through Microsoft Dynamics 365 consolidation. As we move into hyper-care, our focus remains on fine-tuning and ensuring Kepak realises ongoing value from its investment across both Irish and UK markets.”

For more information on Nexer Enterprise Applications, visit: https://nexergroup.com/uk/microsoft-business-applications/

Dell Technologies Data Center Breakthroughs Power Smarter, Faster and More Secure Private Clouds

Dell Technologies announces significant private cloud infrastructure advancements to help customers manage both traditional and modern workloads with greater speed, efficiency, and security.

Why it matters

Many IT teams struggle to handle the demands of both traditional and modern workloads while dealing with rising costs, evolving virtualization needs and vendor lock-in concerns. Organizations are adopting disaggregated private clouds built with virtualization-optimized compute, storage and cyber resilience solutions that provide greater flexibility, choice, and control over their data.

Dell Private Cloud, delivered through the Dell Automation Platform with on-premises and SaaS deployment options, helps customers easily automate, scale and manage private cloud deployments using their preferred cloud OS stack and Dell disaggregated infrastructure including PowerStore, PowerFlex, and PowerMax. Customers can use AI-driven automation for infrastructure management and monitoring.

Additionally, integration of Dell NativeEdge into the Dell Automation Platform provides a full stack solution optimized to simplify and secure operations across distributed cloud and edge environments.

Storage and cyber resilience are key to any private cloud. Dell is introducing significant innovations in these areas to help customers build smarter, faster, and more secure private clouds.

Dell PowerStore adds QLC model and Nutanix Cloud Platform integration

Dell PowerStore delivers simple, enterprise-grade, high-performance storage tightly integrated with modern virtualization platforms and adaptable for containerized environments. The Nutanix Cloud Platform solution will soon support Dell PowerStore, combining Dell’s trusted storage innovation with Nutanix’s cloud operating model to meet customer demand for greater choice and control in how they deploy infrastructure.

PowerStore’s latest hardware and software advancements deliver greater cost-efficiency, AI-accelerated automation and enhanced resiliency.

  • Enterprise performance, lower costs: PowerStore 5200Q offers high-capacity performance with the economics of QLC flash, flexible scaling over 23Pbe per cluster and optimized workload placement through integration with existing PowerStore clusters.
  • Software-driven security and resiliency: Improve enterprise security and resiliency with built-in anomaly detection, single sign-on and biometric authentication, HashiCorp key manager support and replication over fibre channel.
  • AI-powered self-healing: Cut issue resolution time by 90%1 through automated health checks and repairs powered by Smart Support Auto-Heal functionality.

 

Dell PowerFlex provides efficient petabyte-scale storage consolidation   

Dell PowerFlex, the industry’s most resilient software-defined block storage2, offers flexible, software-defined storage that scales linearly and features deep virtualization and Kubernetes integrations. The PowerFlex Ultra release introduces the Scalable Availability Engine (SAE) which drastically simplifies workload management and reduces costs with improved efficiency and reliability.

 

  • Reimagining software-defined storage: PowerFlex’s Scalable Availability Engine (SAE) is built on a native block, fully distributed, erasure-coded architecture that delivers breakthrough storage efficiency, resiliency, and scalability for software-defined data centers. 
  • Extreme storage efficiency: Achieves up to 80% storage efficiency3 with over 50% reduction in physical storage footprint4, allowing organizations to store more data in less space while lowering costs and power consumption.
  1. Data availability and resiliency: Delivers up to 10x9s of data availability with the ability to tolerate up to two node failures simultaneously, ensuring enterprise workloads remain operational even during hardware failures while maintaining data integrity across large-scale deployments.

Dell PowerMax provides mission-critical performance, automation, and security

Dell PowerMax offers mission critical storage with enterprise-class scalability, automation, and resiliency with broad integrations for virtualized environments and full Kubernetes CSI support for container workloads. Software advancements deliver up to 25% greater performance5, advanced automation and enhanced security for mission-critical environments.

  • Enhanced automation: Free up IT teams to tackle higher-value tasks with features like 1-click software updates in less than 6 seconds6, zero-touch management installs and the ability to achieve up to a 66% reduction in steps for replication mode changes7.
  • QLC support: PowerMax 2500 introduces QLC drive support for capacity-intensive workloads while delivering flexible single-drive scaling from 122TB to 8.8PBe per array.
  • Advanced security: The world’s most secure mission-critical storage8 platform now includes features like Single Sign-On with Microsoft Entra ID and encrypted email alerts to ensure the highest standards of data protection and compliance.

Dell PowerProtect helps organizations build a cyber resilient foundation for modern data centers

Dell PowerProtect offers cyber resilience for virtual, cloud-native, and containerized workloads across data centers and every major public cloud, helping ensure rapid recovery to keep businesses running without disruption. The latest appliance and software innovations help organizations reduce their attack surface, detect and respond to threats and quickly recover from cyber incidents.

  • Entry-level appliance, enterprise-level security: The new PowerProtect Data Domain DD3410 is a compact solution for remote offices and smaller environments with exceptional data reduction capabilities, grow-in-place scalability from 8 to 32 TBu and advanced security to keep data safe. The appliance supports a broad partner and backup software ecosystem and native integration with Dell PowerStore and PowerMax.
  • Unified cyber resilience experience: The new PowerProtect Data Manager Appliance is a modern, software-defined solution that delivers centralized management for consistent operations. It enhances cyber resilience with enterprise-grade protection, including anomaly detection, data immutability, and integrity to safeguard against disruptions and threats. The Data Manager Appliance is the best way to achieve cyber resilience with Dell PowerProtect.

 

“At Dell Technologies, we’re empowering our customers with solutions that not only meet today’s IT challenges but also anticipate tomorrow’s needs,” said Travis Vigil, senior vice president, ISG Product Management, Dell Technologies. “Our latest storage and cyber resilience advancements are designed to help organizations build private clouds that are smarter, more secure and ready to handle the demands of both traditional and modern workloads.”

“With our Nutanix Cloud Platform soon supporting Dell PowerStore, we will be giving customers a new choice in how they architect their virtualized environments,” said Thomas Cornely, senior vice president, Product Management at Nutanix. “This integration will deliver an enterprise-grade solution that meets today’s demands for flexibility, while allowing organizations to build confidently with Dell infrastructure.”

“Organizations today face the dual challenge of managing traditional and modern workloads while navigating rising costs and evolving IT demands,” said Simon Robinson, principal analyst, Enterprise Strategy Group, now part of Omdia. “Dell’s latest advancements in storage and cyber resilience provide a comprehensive and flexible foundation for disaggregated private cloud environments, empowering businesses to achieve greater efficiency, security and scalability across their IT operations.”

Additional Resources

Irish Girl Guides providing community learning for empowering older adults with digital skills

To celebrate and honour the older adults in our community, Irish Girl Guide members are teaching digital skills. This past week, Leaders from 10 new Units across Ireland joined a growing cohort of Hi Digital trained Members.

In total, 30 Units are ready to work with older people on the island, which include 60 Leaders and 402 Guides (10-14 y.o.) and Senior Branch (14-30 y.o.).

Since Irish Girl Guides started the partnership with Vodafone Foundation, over 2,000 older people have learned new skills, and this number will continue to expand.

The members learned about some of the barriers older adults face in navigating the digital landscape and how they can help combat social and digital isolation through the Hi Digital programme in partnership with the Vodafone Foundation.

The Units host sessions in their community centres, in parish churches, in Men’s and Women’s Sheds and Active Retirement Groups. Hi Digital sessions last one to two hours and the older adults get a chance not only to learn new skills but also to chat over a cup of tea or a mug of soup.

Learning digital skills is not just about understanding the step-by-step instructions but building confidence and skills towards a more independent life. This is achieved through comprehensive education that demonstrates not just how singular apps work but through universal symbols and recognizable instructions while supporting the growing confidence in the older adult.

One older participant said, “I feel more at ease, knowing that much more about my phone”. While the Irish Girl Guides grow into confident Leaders, they are also helping show the older adult’s new ways to lead more independent lives as they navigate their phones. As one Clogherhead Senior Branch member highlighted, “it was really great for our personal growth but also our community growth”.

Watch this video to see the Hi Digital programme in action!

To see more about Hi Digital check out www.hidigital.ie and for more about the Irish Girl Guides go to www.irishgirlguides.ie

Shokz OpenDots ONE Review

Shokz, the pioneer of open-ear audio innovation latest offering is the OpenDots ONE and we have been testing these out the last while and while this is a earbud style that is catching on now with many manufacturers these are one of the best in class yet for bone conduction.
The most notable feature of the OpenDots ONE is their unique design. Instead of a traditional ear-hook or in-ear fit, they use a “JointArc” clip-on mechanism made of a flexible nickel-titanium alloy with soft silicone padding. At just 6.5 grams per earbud, they are exceptionally lightweight and designed to provide a secure fit when running or training in the gym.

Open-ear earbuds can compromise on sound quality due to the design and shape and not fitting quite like tradional earbuds. However, the OpenDots ONE aim to defy this expectation with their Bassphere technology which uses dual 11.8mm drivers to deliver an almost in-ear earbud experience.  This, combined with Dolby Audio support, results in a surprisingly full and bass-rich sound for their class. These also have Dynamic Ear Detection on deck which means like many of these they can differentiate between left and right automatically. 

In a quiet environment, the audio is clear and balanced. Voices and music are well-defined, and the Bassphere technology provides a much-needed low-end presence that is often lacking in open-ear designs. You will not get the full in-ear or headphone experience but these are close and with the app you have control over the sound stage you want they are loud and there is notable differences between the EQs here unlike other offerings out there with a similar design you will be impressed there is some leakeage when they are maxed out on volume 

The OpenDots ONE boast impressive battery life. You can expect up to 10 hours of continuous music playback on a single charge, with the compact wireless charging case providing an additional 30 hours for a total of 40 hours. A quick 10-minute charge gives you two hours of listening time. The case supports both USB-C and Qi wireless charging, adding a layer of convenience this will be different for every user with how they have theirs set up but the battery life claimed as most do is claim is almost accurate.

The Shokz OpenDots ONE are a great addition into the clip-on open-ear market. They offer excellent comfort and a secure fit, making them a fantastic choice for those who dislike traditional earbuds or prioritize situational awareness which with the dark nights now closing in is a not a bad idea for people that walk or jog etc and those who want to try the new design who have not done so yet this is around the 20th pair of this type of clip-on for me to review now and they come with Find My Earbuds on board which is great if lost or isplaced at home of the office and whilst not a fan when they came out I am now.

While no open-ear headphone can completely match the sound isolation of an in-ear model or headphones the OpenDots ONE deliver a  good audio experience with impressive bass for their design and give you a near tpyical in- ear experience. 

The touch controls can be a bit tricky as there is two areas but you will over time get the thumb memory in action, and with their app you have more control, these are more expensive that others we have tried but as mentioned one of the best so far this year, check out the video below for more..

SHOKZ App
Key Highlights:
  • Effortless Clip-On Style
    Designed with a sleek nickel-titanium “JointArc™” frame wrapped in soft, skin-friendly silicone, OpenDots ONE gently clips onto the outer ear—offering a secure fit that complements glasses, hats, or jewellery.
  • Interchangeable and Intuitive
    No more fumbling with left and right earbuds. OpenDots ONE features Dynamic Ear Detection that automatically senses which ear it’s in, so you can wear and store them interchangeably—no worrying about sides.
  • Surprisingly Mighty Sound, Pocket-Sized Design
    Shokz’s proprietary Bassphere™ dual-speaker module packs the punch of a 16 mm driver into a compact sphere—delivering rich, immersive audio enhanced further by Dolby Audio and DirectPitch™ technology to minimize sound leakage.
  • All-Day Wear, All-Day Battery
    Each earbud delivers up to 10 hours of playtime, with the compact charging case extending that to a remarkable 40 hours. A quick 10-minute charge gives an additional 2 hours—plus, the case supports convenient wireless charging.
  • Stay Aware, Stay Comfortable
    Open-ear design keeps you alert to ambient sounds—ideal for commuting, exercising, or multitasking. The ergonomic JointArc™ and featherlight build (around 6.5 g per earbud) ensure all-day comfort without ear-canal pressure.
  • Adaptive Intelligence at Your Fingertips
    Customize your sound with four EQ presets—or build your own—in the Shokz App. Activate Dolby Audio for an immersive output, set up multipoint pairing, tailor touch gestures, access “Find My Earbuds”, monitor battery levels, and stay updated with firmware enhancements.
  • Rugged and Ready
    Built for life, OpenDots ONE boasts an IP54 rating for protection against sweat and splashes, making them a dependable choice for active lifestyles.
Availability & Pricing
OpenDots ONE is now available from Harvey Norman Ireland, DID Electrical and other independent retailers
RRP 199.99 EURO