Category: Technology

Cloud Infrastructure for Nigerian SMBs

Posted on by GTM Velvot
Cloud Infrastructure for Nigerian SMBs

Cloud Infrastructure for Nigerian SMBs: Powering Growth in a Digital Economy

The Nigerian business landscape is rapidly evolving. Customers expect speed, reliability, and innovation. Competitors are leveraging technology to scale faster and reach new markets. For Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs), the question is no longer “Should we move to the cloud?” but rather “How fast can we get there?”

What Does Cloud Infrastructure Mean for SMBs?

Cloud Infrastructure provides businesses with access to computing resources—servers, storage, applications, and networking—over the internet. Instead of managing physical hardware, SMBs can rely on cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud to power daily operations and fuel long-term growth.

Why Cloud Infrastructure is a Game-Changer for Nigerian SMBs

  • 1. Financial Flexibility
    • Eliminate the high costs of on-premises servers and data centers.
    • Move to a subscription-based model, paying only for the resources you use.
    • Free up capital to invest in business expansion and customer acquisition.
  • 2. Speed and Scalability
    • Launch new applications or services in minutes, not months.
    • Scale resources up or down instantly to handle demand spikes—without downtime.
  • 3. Robust Security & Data Protection
    • Benefit from enterprise-grade security measures like multi-factor authentication, encryption, and real-time threat detection.
    • Ensure compliance with data protection standards like ISO 27001 and GDPR.
  • 4. Remote Workforce Enablement
    • Empower teams to work securely from anywhere using cloud-hosted collaboration tools.
    • Boost productivity with integrated platforms like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace.
  • 5. Innovation at Speed
    • Leverage AI, machine learning, and IoT on cloud platforms to streamline operations and create smarter customer experiences.
    • Accelerate digital transformation without large upfront investments.

Velvot’s Cloud Infrastructure Services

We provide end-to-end cloud solutions tailored to the Nigerian SMB ecosystem:

  • 1. Cloud Strategy & Consulting – Assess your current IT setup and define a migration roadmap.
  • 2. Cloud Migration – Move workloads seamlessly to the cloud with minimal disruption.
  • 3. Managed Cloud Services – Ongoing optimization, monitoring, and support to keep systems running efficiently.
  • 4. Cybersecurity Integration – Protect data and applications with advanced security protocols.
  • 5. Business Continuity Planning – Ensure data recovery and resilience in case of outages.

Key Industries Benefiting from Cloud in Nigeria

  • E-commerce & Retail – High availability for online platforms and inventory systems.
  • Financial Services & Fintech – Secure and compliant solutions for transactions and customer data.
  • Healthcare – Cloud-based patient record systems and telemedicine platforms.
  • Logistics & Supply Chain – Real-time tracking and analytics for better decision-making.

At Velvot Nigeria Limited, we specialize in building cloud infrastructure solutions that enable Nigerian SMBs to thrive in a digital-first economy.

Why Choose Velvot?

  • Certified cloud experts with proven success in deploying scalable solutions for SMBs.
  • Strategic partnerships with Microsoft, AWS, and Google Cloud for enterprise-level reliability.
  • Customized solutions that balance cost, performance, and security.

Conclusion

Cloud adoption is no longer a luxury—it is a critical step for Nigerian SMBs looking to compete in a digital-first marketplace. By embracing cloud infrastructure, you can reduce costs, boost efficiency, and unlock new revenue streams.

Next Step

Let Velvot be your Cloud Strategy Partner. Schedule a consultation today to explore how we can design and implement a future-ready cloud infrastructure for your business.

📧 Email: gtm@velvot.com

Phone: +234 9111315822

Urgent Cybersecurity Alert: Tool Shell Exploit Targets On-Premises SharePoint Servers

Posted on by GTM Velvot
Sophos MDR Security Alert – Velvot Nigeria Limited

Sophos MDR Security Alert

Announcement Date: July 18, 2025

On July 18, 2025, Sophos’ Managed Detection and Response (MDR) team detected a significant wave of malicious activities targeting on-premises Microsoft SharePoint environments. These activities involved the deployment of harmful PowerShell commands across numerous systems, indicating a coordinated exploit effort leveraging a newly identified toolset referred to as ‘Tool Shell.’

Initial Findings

Initial investigations traced the earliest known activity back to July 17, 2025. Tool Shell comprises a chained exploitation of two critical SharePoint vulnerabilities— CVE-2025-49704 and CVE-2025-49706—first demonstrated during the Pwn2Own cybersecurity event in Berlin in May 2025. Microsoft addressed both vulnerabilities in their July Patch Tuesday updates.

Zero-Day Exploits

What makes this situation particularly urgent is the emergence of two new vulnerabilities, CVE-2025-53770 and CVE-2025-53771, which are currently being exploited in the wild as part of an active zero-day attack campaign.

This means threat actors are not only taking advantage of previously known flaws but are also exploiting fresh weaknesses for which protections may not yet be fully deployed across affected infrastructures.

Impact & Recommendations

Sophos MDR has reached out to all identified victims of these attacks. Given the active nature of the exploit and the confirmed use of a zero-day, organizations using on-premises SharePoint servers are strongly advised to apply Microsoft’s latest security patches without delay.

Notably, SharePoint Online services hosted on Microsoft 365 are not affected by this campaign.

Action Required

Velvot Nigeria Limited urges all clients and IT administrators to assess their SharePoint infrastructure immediately and implement all necessary updates and monitoring practices to reduce exposure.

Staying ahead of evolving threats requires a proactive approach—don’t wait for a breach to act.

Contact Information

For professional cybersecurity assessment and infrastructure support, contact us: GTM@velvot.com

Velvot Nigeria Limited
Lagos State, Nigeria
Website: www.velvot.com

Fortinet Advances Quantum-Safe Communications to Combat Emerging Cyber Threats

Posted on by GTM Velvot

Quantum-Safe Cybersecurity with Fortinet

As the digital era continues to evolve at breakneck speed, quantum computing is fast emerging as the next frontier of innovation. By harnessing the bizarre yet powerful principles of quantum mechanics, quantum computers promise to solve complex problems in seconds—problems that would take even today’s most advanced supercomputers thousands of years to crack. This paradigm shift holds extraordinary potential across industries such as pharmaceuticals, financial modelling, materials science, and artificial intelligence.


However, with every great innovation comes equally significant challenges—especially in the realm of cybersecurity. Quantum computing, while still in its early stages, poses a very real and pressing threat to the foundation of modern digital security. Today’s cryptographic standards, such as RSA and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography), which safeguard everything from online banking to classified government files, are built on mathematical problems that are difficult for classical computers to solve. But with the advent of quantum computing, these algorithms could be rendered obsolete overnight.


One alarming tactic already being deployed by cybercriminals is known as “harvest now, decrypt later”. Bad actors are collecting and storing encrypted information now, in anticipation of future breakthroughs in quantum processing. Once quantum computers reach sufficient power, this data could be decrypted—exposing sensitive financial records, intellectual property, personal identities, and even national secrets. This looming threat has made it clear that organizations can no longer rely solely on traditional cybersecurity frameworks.


Enter quantum-safe communication technologies. Also known as post-quantum cryptography (PQC), these solutions are being developed specifically to withstand the unprecedented computing power of quantum systems. Designed to be secure even against future quantum attacks, they offer a path toward sustainable cybersecurity in an unpredictable future.


At the forefront of this transformation is Fortinet, a globally recognized leader in network security and threat intelligence. Fortinet is taking proactive measures by embedding quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms into its core operating system, FortiOS. This move signals a shift from reactive to pre-emptive cybersecurity—ensuring that businesses can protect themselves not only from today’s threats but also from those on the horizon.


Through its integrated security platform, Fortinet offers end-to-end protection that encompasses firewalls, secure SD-WAN, zero-trust access, endpoint security, and more—all now fortified with quantum-safe encryption capabilities. These enhancements position Fortinet as a visionary ally for organizations striving to remain compliant, competitive, and secure in a world of ever-escalating cyber risks.


Whether you are running a small business, managing a financial institution, operating a health system, or securing national infrastructure, the need for quantum-safe preparedness is no longer a matter of “if” but “when”. By investing in quantum-resilient infrastructure now, businesses can ensure that their data remains protected decades into the future, no matter how the technology landscape evolves.


Partner with Velvot Nigeria Limited for Future-Ready Cybersecurity

At Velvot Nigeria Limited, we understand that staying ahead in cybersecurity requires foresight, expertise, and reliable technology partners. That’s why we align with global leaders like Fortinet to bring cutting-edge, enterprise-grade security solutions to Nigerian and African businesses.

From security assessments and infrastructure audits to full-scale Fortinet deployments, our team offers end-to-end cybersecurity services tailored to your specific risk landscape. We are your trusted partner in building digital resilience that scales with your growth and anticipates future threats.


📍 Office Address: 24 Bode Thomas, Surulere, Lagos State, Nigeria

📞 Call Us: 0911 131 5822

📧 Mail: gtm@velvot.com

🌐 Website: www.velvot.com

Secure your tomorrow, today—with Velvot.



Signs It’s Time to Modernize Your Legacy Software — and What to Do Next

Posted on by GTM Velvot

Signs It’s Time to Modernize Your Legacy Software — and What to Do Next

A mid-sized microfinance bank in Lagos delayed upgrading its core system for over five years. Initially, they saved ₦8 million in upgrade costs  but in 2023, a ransomware attack exploited a vulnerability in their outdated software. It took 3 weeks to recover data and operations, costing the bank over ₦70 million in lost revenue, recovery fees, and fines.

The real cost? Customer confidence dropped. They lost 12% of their client base within 6 months.

Legacy systems don’t fail all at once. They fade slowly, quietly eroding your business performance until something critical breaks. The challenge is knowing when to act.

Here’s how to recognize the warning signs and take action before outdated software hurts your bottom line.

How Do You Know Your System Is Outdated?

Sometimes, the signs are subtle but their effects are damaging. If you check more than 2–3 items on this list, your business is likely being slowed down by legacy tech:

 1. Frequent System Crashes or Errors

Outdated platforms can’t keep up with modern processing demands, leading to instability, glitches, and frustrating downtime.

 2. Poor Integration Capabilities

If your accounting system can’t speak to your CRM, or your inventory doesn’t sync with your online store, you’re wasting hours manually moving data.

 3. Lack of Mobile Access or Cloud Compatibility

Modern workforces  and clients  demand mobility. If your system isn’t accessible from anywhere, you’re stuck in a local-only world.

 4. Increasing IT Support and Maintenance Costs

Are you constantly calling in specialists just to keep things running? Legacy tech becomes more expensive to maintain over time.

 5. Losing Competitive Advantage

Competitors are offering faster service, better insights, or personalized customer experiences. You know your tech can’t keep up.

 

What Happens If You Delay Modernization?

  • You may miss growth opportunities
  • Security vulnerabilities go unpatched
  • Employee morale suffers
  • Customer experience declines

Over time, the cost of inaction far exceeds the cost of transition.

What to Do Next: A Simple Game Plan

  1. Conduct a Technology Audit
    • Identify which systems are outdated, unsupported, or inefficient.
  2. Map Your Business Processes
    • Understand how your teams work today so your new systems can enhance “not disrupt” workflow.
  3. Prioritize Based on Risk and Impact
    • Start with the systems that affect customer experience or revenue directly.
  4. Choose the Right Modern Platforms
    • Opt for secure, cloud-based, scalable platforms with strong support ecosystems.
  5. Find a Trusted Partner
    • Migration is smoother and faster with a professional team guiding the process.

 

Modernize with Velvot Nigeria Ltd

At Velvot, we help Nigerian businesses make informed, phased, and stress-free upgrades. From audit to implementation, our team ensures minimal downtime and maximum results.

We will help you identify your weak spots? Email gtm@velvot.com for a free systems check and strategy session.

The best time to modernize was yesterday. The next best time is now.

IMAGES: ACROPOLUIM

The Real Cost of Clinging to Legacy Systems in a Fast-Moving World

Posted on by GTM Velvot

The Real Cost of Clinging to Legacy Systems in a Fast-Moving World

In a world defined by rapid digital transformation, clinging to outdated technology may feel safe familiar even but it’s costing your business far more than you think. While legacy systems may have served you well in the past, they are no match for the agility, speed, and scalability required in today’s competitive business environment.

Let’s break down the real costs  financial, operational, and strategic  of staying stuck in the past.

What Is a Legacy System?

A legacy system refers to software, hardware, or an entire IT framework that is outdated but still in use. These systems often:

  • Rely on obsolete programming languages
  • Are no longer supported by the original vendor
  • Operate in silos, disconnected from modern tools
  • Run on aging infrastructure that can no longer be optimized

If you’re still using spreadsheets to track inventory, manually entering customer records, or managing processes through outdated platforms that can’t connect to the cloud  you’re running on legacy.

The Illusion of Cost Savings

Many businesses hesitate to modernize their systems because of the perceived high cost of change. But maintaining legacy infrastructure can be even more expensive when you account for:

🔹 Rising Maintenance Costs

Older systems often require specialized knowledge or external contractors to maintain  and as fewer experts exist, the cost of support rises. You’re also likely paying higher fees for patches, licenses, and hardware upkeep.

🔹 Frequent Downtime

Aging systems are less reliable. As hardware breaks down and software struggles to handle newer workloads, outages become more frequent  and costly.

🔹 Limited Vendor Support

Once a vendor sunsets a product, you’re on your own. Unsupported systems don’t receive updates or security patches, leaving your business vulnerable.

Security: A Ticking Time Bomb

Legacy systems are inherently insecure. Cybercriminals target them because:

  • They lack modern encryption and authentication features
  • They can’t detect or report threats in real time
  • Security holes go unpatched, sometimes for years

A single data breach could cost your company millions in damages, regulatory fines, and lost customer trust  all because you didn’t upgrade a system from the 2000s.

Inflexibility = Missed Opportunities

Legacy systems often operate in silos, unable to integrate with cloud platforms, mobile apps, or real-time analytics. This creates a ripple effect:

  • Slow decision-making: Leadership can’t access current data quickly.
  • Manual processes: Employees waste time inputting or transferring data.
  • Inability to scale: Expansion to new locations or markets becomes expensive and technically complex.
  • Loss of innovation: You miss out on AI, automation, and other digital trends.

Your competitors aren’t waiting  and neither should you.

At Velvot Nigeria Ltd, we help businesses like yours transition from Legacy system. Whether you need a full risk assessment, employee training, or cloud-based/hybrid protection, our team is here to support you.

Book a free consultation or email us at gtm@velvot.com to get started.

Don’t wait to be obsolete — scale your business today.

Image Credit: Google

Bost Your Cyber Defences

Posted on by admin

Why Small Businesses Are the New Targets: 5 Ways to Boost Your Cyber Defences

For many years, cybersecurity was seen as a “big company” problem. Large corporations with vast amounts of sensitive data were the primary targets for cybercriminals. But in recent years, the tide has turned and small businesses are now squarely in the crosshairs.

 

Why Are Small Businesses Being Targeted?

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are often seen as the “low-hanging fruit” of the digital world. They typically have fewer security measures, limited budgets, and may lack dedicated IT personnel. This makes them easier to breach and less likely to detect or respond quickly to threats.

 

In fact, recent reports show that over 43% of cyberattacks now target small businesses, with phishing, ransomware, and data theft being the most common threats.

Common Vulnerabilities in Small Businesses

  • Weak passwords and lack of two-factor authentication
  • Unpatched or outdated software and systems
  • No formal cybersecurity policy or staff training
  • Limited data backup and recovery plans
  • Inadequate endpoint protection (laptops, mobile devices, etc.)

These gaps make it easy for attackers to gain access and potentially hold a business hostage.

 

5 Ways to Strengthen Your Cyber Defences

The good news? You don’t need a six-figure cybersecurity budget to protect your business. Here are five practical, impactful steps you can take:

Train Your Team  Regularly

Your employees are your first line of defence. Offer simple, ongoing cybersecurity training on topics like spotting phishing emails, safe browsing habits, and what to do if they suspect a breach. Make it routine, not a once-a-year checklist.

Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Even strong passwords can be cracked. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identity verification, like a code sent to a mobile phone. This small step can block over 90% of credential-based attacks.

Keep Software and Systems Updated

Outdated systems are a hacker’s playground. Set up automatic updates for your software, operating systems, and plugins. If your business still runs on legacy software, it may be time to consider an upgrade or secure integration.

Invest in Basic Cybersecurity Tools

You don’t need an expensive enterprise solution. A business-grade antivirus, firewall, and secure cloud backup solution can go a long way. Look for tools that offer real-time protection and alerting.

Develop a Cyber Incident Response Plan

If a breach happens, your response time matters. A solid plan should outline who to notify, how to contain the breach, and how to recover data. Run simulations with your team to ensure they’re ready to act.

 

Final Thoughts: Proactive Beats Reactive

Cybersecurity is no longer optional and assuming “we’re too small to be targeted” is a dangerous myth. Being proactive now can save you money, reputation, and downtime in the long run.

Start small, stay consistent, and seek expert help if needed. Even modest changes can dramatically improve your digital resilience.

Let us help you stay ahead of the curve.

Email: gtm@velvot.com or call us for a free 30-minute consultation.

Stay one step ahead. Partner with Velvot.

Are there Possibilities of establishing a Datacenter in Nigeria?

Posted on by admin

Imagine a world where technology not only powers our devices but also uplifts the communities it touches. This is the vision Microsoft shares through its Datacenter Community Pledge, recently unveiled by Noelle Walsh, the Corporate Vice President of Cloud Operations and Innovation. But what if this vision could be realized in Nigeria, the economic powerhouse of Africa? What if a datacenter could address the nation’s data residency challenges and catalyze unprecedented economic growth?  

Microsoft’s announcement is not just about infrastructure; it’s about a promise to transform their datacenters into beacons of community support and economic resilience. As they said on their blog, “We rely on a vast network of local suppliers, officials, stakeholders, and residents to plan, design, construct and operate each of our facilities. To those communities, we owe a commitment to be responsible neighbors and contribute positively to local economies and ecosystems while advancing digital transformation.” Isn’t this the perfect blueprint for Nigeria?

Addressing Data Residency Challenges 

Consider the issue of data residency—where data is stored and how it is governed. For a nation like Nigeria, with its burgeoning tech industry, this is more than just a technical challenge; it’s a matter of sovereignty and trust. What if a local datacenter could ensure that data remains within national borders, complying with local regulations and fostering confidence in digital services? Could this be the game-changer Nigeria needs? 

Economic and Technological Benefits 

Now, imagine the economic ripple effect. A datacenter in Nigeria wouldn’t just be a building full of servers; it would be a hub of activity, innovation, and opportunity. It would provide businesses with faster, more reliable access to cloud services, making Nigerian enterprises more competitive on the global stage. Think about the jobs it would create and the skills it would develop. Could this be the catalyst for a new wave of technological advancement in Nigeria? 

Furthermore, a local datacenter would serve as a fertile ground for startups and established companies alike, providing the robust infrastructure needed to experiment, grow, and thrive. Isn’t this the kind of environment every budding entrepreneur dreams of? 

Community-Centric Approach 

Microsoft’s pledge emphasizes being responsible neighbors and contributing positively to local economies and ecosystems. What if this ethos were applied in Nigeria, with the datacenter designed and operated with local needs in mind? By involving local suppliers, officials, stakeholders, and residents, Microsoft can ensure the datacenter is a resource that truly addresses local priorities. Could this foster a sense of ownership and pride within the community? 

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations 

Let’s not forget about sustainability. Microsoft’s datacenters are known for their energy efficiency and environmental friendliness. By leveraging renewable energy sources and cutting-edge technologies, a Nigerian datacenter could set new standards for sustainable development in the region. Wouldn’t this enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a leader in green technology? 

Conclusion

In the end, the idea of establishing a Microsoft datacenter in Nigeria is more than just a technological endeavor; it’s a visionary step towards solving data residency issues while driving economic growth and technological innovation. As an economic giant of Africa, Nigeria is uniquely positioned to become a major partner in this endeavor, contributing to and benefiting from a digitally empowered future. Could this be the dawn of a new era for Nigeria and the broader African continent? 

By embracing this opportunity, Nigeria can solidify its position as a leader in the digital age, fostering a future where data sovereignty, economic prosperity, and technological innovation go hand in hand. Isn’t this the kind of future we all aspire to? 

Learn more about Microsoft Azure

#DigitalTransformation #DataSovereignty #EconomicGrowth #TechInnovation 

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      © 2024 Velvot Nig. Limited- All Rights Reserved.

      Your Digital Strategy Partner

      Email

      info@velvot.com

      Phone

      +2348065175454
      +2347061553849
      014538078

      Cloud
      Productivity
      Digital Transformation
      Security & Compliance
      Application Development
      Automation & Collaboration
      Cyber Security
      Microsoft 365
      Microsoft Azure
      Generative AI
      Windows 10
      Dynamics 365
      Artificial Intellengent
      Future Of Work
      Robotics
      Retail
      Health
      Education
      Government
      Manufacturing
      Financial Services

      Our Solution

      • Cloud
      • Productivity
      • Digital Transformation
      • Security & Compliance
      • Application Development
      • Automation & Collaboration
      • Cyber Security

      Technologies

      • Microsoft 365
      • Microsoft Azure
      • Generative AI
      • Windows 10
      • Dynamics 365
      • Artificial Intellengent
      • Future Of Work
      • Robotics

      Industries

      • Retail
      • Health
      • Education
      • Government
      • Manufacturing
      • Financial Services

      © 2025 Velvot Nig. Limited- All Rights Reserved.