We are proud to announce the launch of Project PlacePod – our new initiative is designed to tackle digital exclusion by creating safe, secure and easy-to-use digital community hubs.

As a Northamptonshire-based technology company, we provide Connectivity Solutions and Digital Platforms to SMEs, Enterprises and Public Sector organisations. Project PlacePod represents the next step in our commitment to delivering meaningful digital innovation directly into communities.

This initiative is a collaboration between us, the University of Bedfordshire and Quintessence. It builds on the Memorandum of Understanding we signed in 2025, created to open up new student opportunities and drive research and innovation.

The development of our prototype was supported by a South Midlands Growth Hub ‘Driving Innovation’ Grant, launched as part of the University of Northampton’s ‘Fuelling Innovation’ campaign. We soft-launched PlacePod during ‘Get Online Week’ in October 2025 at Digital Northants’ ‘Health Tech’ demonstrator day. As of January 2026, the first permanent unit is now live at the University of Bedfordshire’s Luton campus.

Speaking on the launch, Stuart Smith, Head of Public Sector and Innovation here at dbfb, said:

“As people live longer, local authorities and health services are facing increasing pressure. One part of the solution is to bring more digital resources directly into communities, in line with the NHS 10-year plan. Project PlacePod provides a one-stop shop of integrated digital services, designed to be accessible for everyone, including those who are digitally excluded.”

PlacePod is just one example of how we believe emerging digital technologies can be positioned exactly where they are needed most, helping to deliver better outcomes for individuals, businesses and local communities.

Partnership is central to everything we are doing with this initiative. By working alongside the University of Bedfordshire, the South Midlands Growth Hub, Quintessence and other key stakeholders, we are collaboratively driving innovation while supporting regional growth.

Now that our first PlacePod is operational, it is already enabling a wide range of digital applications, from wellbeing and public safety through to sports analysis, with many more use cases planned.

Our vision is clear: to create a versatile, digitally enabled and secure space capable of supporting countless community needs. We are excited to work with communities and local partners across the UK to expand the reach of PlacePod and deliver truly accessible digital services nationwide.

With recent growth in AI, 5G, and the tech sector, the telecommunications industry is advancing rapidly. If you want to keep ahead of the curve with the latest developments, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of our favourite telecom industry trends that we think you should consider implementing long term.  

Fibre Optic Expansion  

These days, speedy and strong connections are everything. More companies are now investing in fibre internet cables. These cables give you the fastest connection by using light pulses.   

In 2027, the UK will retire landlines, forcing many people to upgrade their network. Fibre cables are a modern and effective replacement for your traditional phone network.  

Generative AI  

Artificial intelligence (AI) has taken the world by storm, and the telecoms industry is no different. AI in telecoms can improve customer support and manage mobile networks. It can also handle admin tasks for companies. This lets you spend more time and money on running your business.  

Private 5G Networks  

One of the huge telecom trends is installing private 5G networks. A private network allows you to have an exclusive network for your business, without the lag or limitations that come with sharing a public network.   

To level up your connectivity even further, you can make the most of 5G. A 5G network is 100 times faster than 4G, meaning it’s leaps and bounds ahead of previous network speeds.  

IoT Market  

IoT stands for Internet of Things and refers to physical devices that have the ability to connect to other devices over the internet. This often describes cloud services and smart home devices, such as smart speakers, Bluetooth lighting, or home security systems.  

However, IoT trends have also greatly improved the transportation industry, as fleets can be remotely managed from a single hub, and with AI technology can be automatically tracked and checked. Analysts expect IoT in transportation to double in revenue from 2023 to 2028, making it a popular investment.  

More business models are undergoing digital transformation to stay on top of the latest technological trends and advancements. At dbfb, we’re here to help you stay connected with the newest and flashiest telecoms technology. To learn more, get in touch with our team today and embrace these competitive advantages. 

Welcoming TC Solutions to the dbfb group

We’re excited to share some big news: we’ve completed the acquisition of Milton Keynes-based Totally Converged Solutions (TC Solutions). This move expands our regional footprint, strengthens our customer relationships, and brings together two like-minded teams with a shared focus on service.

Left: Simon Dixon, Managing Director (TC Solutions), Right: Simon Pickering, Managing Director (dbfb)

Why TC Solutions?

When we set out with our advisers at Evolution Capital to find a business that aligned with our values and long-term vision, TC Solutions stood out straight away. With strong customer loyalty, a hands-on service ethos, and a proven track record in mobile, telephony and connectivity, they felt like a natural fit.

“We’ve grown TC Solutions from the ground up, and after 17 years we were ready to look at the next step. We’re both staying on – and that matters. We’ve worked with many of our customers since day one, so getting the transition right is a top priority.

What stood out about Simon and the dbfb team was their personal, customer-focused approach. Our customers will be in good hands.

We’re excited to get to know the team and bring the best of both businesses together.”

— Andrew Thomas, Director, TC Solutions

Founders Simon Dixon and Andrew Thomas will remain in the business, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing continuity for customers.

What does this mean for all our customers?

This is about building on what we all do best. TC Solutions brings extra depth to our customer-first model, reinforcing the principles we’ve always stood by:

• Relationships that last – Their long-standing partnerships mirror our own approach to support and service.

• Shared values – A commitment to responsiveness, reliability, and real human support.

• Stronger presence – A deeper local connection to the Milton Keynes business community.

No changes to contracts or support. Just the same reliable service, with a few more friendly faces behind the scenes.

Growing our Milton Keynes footprint

Milton Keynes is one of the UK’s fastest-growing cities and a key part of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. While we’ve served businesses in the area for years, this acquisition brings us even closer to the heart of the region’s growth.

“Working with Simon and the dbfb team has been a fantastic example of how a clear M&A strategy can be successfully implemented. From initiating a long-term relationship with a leading funder in Santander, to identifying a target that fits dbfb’s growth ambitions, Evolution Capital’s collaborative approach has delivered a great outcome for both buyer and seller.

“It’s been a pleasure to work so well as a team – and we look forward to supporting dbfb in its continued growth.

— Charlie Futcher, Transaction Manager, Evolution Capital

More progress, same principles

Over the past year we’ve expanded our team, grown our IT and bulk text messaging services, and delivered double-digit revenue growth. Welcoming TC Solutions is the next step – and we’re continuing to explore opportunities that help us deliver more for customers.

“We’ve grown significantly over the past year – welcoming new talent into the business and deepening our capabilities in IT and bulk text messaging,” said Simon Pickering, Managing Director at dbfb. “It’s a fast-moving market, and businesses like TC Solutions, that lead with service and innovation, continue to thrive. For Simon and Andy, this was a natural next step – and with them staying on, we’re even better placed to help all our customers adapt, grow and benefit more from their technology.

“Ultimately, this deal is about strengthening what we do best – delivering performance and productivity for our customers.”

— Simon Pickering, Managing Director, dbfb

We’re looking forward to the next chapter—and we’re glad to be doing it with people who care about customers as much as we do.

Want to know more?

Visit our services page,  business mobile page or get in touch to see how else we can support your business.

You can also follow the journey on LinkedIn for updates from Simon, Andrew and the wider team.

Remember when Windows 10 first arrived on the scene? It was shiny, fast, and full of promise. But like your favourite pair of trainers or that one pub that’s just a bit too 90s — it’s time to retire gracefully.

Yes, folks, the end of support for Windows 10 is officially on the horizon, and if you’re wondering what that means for you, your team, and your devices — we’ve got you covered.

Let’s break it all down without the tech jargon overload, shall we?

When Does Windows 10 Support End?

Mark your calendars: October 14, 2025.

That’s the day Microsoft waves goodbye to Windows 10 support. After that, there’ll be no more security updates, patches, or bug fixes — it’s like your PC’s immunity system stops getting booster shots.

In short: things could get a little… vulnerable.

What Does the End of Support for Windows 10 Mean for Me?

No more support means:

•  Security risks – Your devices become prime targets for cyber nasties.

•  No new features or fixes – Bugs won’t be squashed, and performance won’t improve.

•  Outdated software – Many modern apps will start saying, “Sorry, we don’t support your OS anymore.”

So unless you enjoy the wild west of unsupported tech, it’s time to start planning the switch.

When Should I Switch to Windows 11?

Spoiler alert: not on October 13, 2025. That’s cutting it too close.

Start planning now — especially if you manage multiple devices. Upgrading an entire fleet of PCs takes time, testing, and a fair bit of coordination (and maybe coffee… lots of coffee).

Our recommendation? Aim to complete your transition by the end of July 2025 very latest. That way, you’re ahead of the curve — and not panicking come autumn.

The Steps Required to Get Your PC Fleet Ready for Windows 11

Let’s keep it simple:

1. Take Inventory
   Check which devices can even handle Windows 11 (not all PCs make the cut).
   
2. Check Compatibility
   Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check Tool to see if your devices are Windows 11-ready.
   
3. Plan Your Rollout
   Decide whether to upgrade in phases or all at once. Pilot test with a small team first.
   
4. Backup Everything
   Better safe than sorry — always back up your data before upgrading.
   
5. Train Your Team
   Windows 11 isn’t a wild departure, but a little training goes a long way.
6. Install and Celebrate 
   Push out the upgrade, monitor performance, and enjoy that fresh new OS smell.

How Can dbfb.co.uk Help?

This is where we roll up our sleeves.

At dbfb, we’re not just experts in connectivity and comms — we’re your technology partners. Here’s how we make your Windows 11 upgrade a breeze:

• Fleet audits to see which devices are ready and which need replacing.
  
• Project planning to ensure a smooth, low-disruption rollout.
  
• Ongoing support so you’re not left alone with a spinning loading icon.
• Cybersecurity services to keep your upgraded systems safe and sound.

Think of us as your IT pit crew — fast, reliable, and just a little obsessed with getting things right.

Final Thoughts

Windows 10 had a good run, but all good things must come to an end. With Windows 11 here to take the torch, now’s the perfect time to future-proof your tech and stay ahead of the game.

Need help with the switch?
Let’s chat. We’ll take care of the tech, so you can get back to doing what you do best.

As we reflect on over 20 years in the telecoms industry, one thing is crystal clear: technology has progressed at an astonishing pace. Each year brings ground-breaking developments, and as we head into 2025, the future looks brighter than ever.

This week’s announcement by Google about their new quantum chip, ‘Willow,’ has set the tone for what’s to come. This chip can solve problems in mere minutes that would take today’s fastest supercomputers an unimaginable 10 septillion years to complete! With technology like this on the horizon, it’s impossible not to get excited about what’s next.

As we prepare to welcome the new year, here are the top trends and advancements we expect to define 2025:

5G and beyond: faster and smarter networks

The rollout of 5G is already transforming industries, but 2025 will take connectivity to a whole new level. The expansion of 5G+ or even 6G promises speeds up to 100 times faster than today’s networks. These ultra-fast networks will:

• Revolutionise verticals such as autonomous vehicles, virtual reality (VR), and cloud gaming.

• Enable real-time data transfer with almost zero latency.

• Open doors to AI-powered applications, enhancing everything from healthcare to entertainment.

AI-driven devices: smarter than ever

AI was the defining buzzword of 2024, and its momentum will only grow. By 2025, we expect AI to:

• Become a mainstay in smartphones, delivering unprecedented levels of personalisation.

• Power smarter cameras that adjust dynamically based on their environment.

• Anticipate user needs through advanced predictive technology, integrating seamlessly into daily tasks.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR)

AR and MR capabilities are set to soar in 2025. Smartphones will:

• Act as powerful AR devices, overlaying digital content onto the physical world with precision.

• Enable holographic interfaces for collaboration and immersive experiences.

• Play parts in industries like education, retail, and healthcare through AR-enhanced tools.

Quantum computing in smartphones

With advancements like Google’s quantum chip, the first steps toward quantum-powered smartphones could emerge in 2025. Quantum technology promises to:

• Radically improve processing power and energy efficiency.

• Enable faster computations and more secure encryption.

• Lay the groundwork for a new era of mobile computing.

Battery technology revolution

Battery life has always been a pain point, but 2025 could change that. Expect to see:

• Longer-lasting power and lightning-fast charging.

• Batteries with higher energy density, bringing back the days when phones could last for days on a single charge.

The advancements on the horizon for 2025 are nothing short of transformative. From quantum computing and rollable displays to AI-driven personalization and sustainable designs, smartphones are poised to become even more integral to our daily lives.

At dbfb, we’re excited to see how these advancements shape the future of connectivity and communication. Let’s embrace the journey ahead in 2025 together!

The UK’s transition away from analogue phone lines is still happening, and businesses still need to be ready. The PSTN switch-off deadline is 31 January 2027, which means services that rely on older analogue and ISDN lines will need to move to digital alternatives.

For some businesses, the revised date may feel like extra breathing space. In reality, it is a chance to plan properly and avoid a rushed move later.

Delaying action might feel easier in the short term, especially if your current setup still works. But waiting too long could leave you with fewer options, more pressure, and a bigger risk of disruption when the deadline gets closer.

What is the PSTN switch-off?

The Public Switched Telephone Network, or PSTN, is the traditional analogue phone network that has supported business communications for decades. As the UK moves to more modern digital services, these older networks are being retired in favour of internet-based alternatives.

That means businesses still relying on legacy phone lines & telephony systems will need to review what they use today and plan for what comes next.

Why the 2027 delay should not stop your planning

A planned move gives your business more control. You can review your current setup, understand what needs to change, and make decisions based on what suits your business, rather than what needs to be done urgently.

Leaving it too late can mean:

• rushed decisions
• avoidable disruption
• limited supplier availability
• missed opportunities to improve the way your business communicates

The switch-off is not just about replacing old lines. It is also a chance to modernise your setup and remove some of the limitations that come with older systems.

What this could mean for your business

Many organisations think of the PSTN switch-off as a phone system issue, but the impact can be wider than that.

Depending on your setup, you may need to review:

• business phone lines
• broadband services that still depend on older infrastructure
• alarm lines
• lift emergency lines
• door entry and access systems
• payment terminals
• fax machines
• other devices connected through analogue lines

Government guidance makes clear that businesses should check any services still relying on analogue landlines, not just voice calls.

Why moving to VoIP sooner can benefit your business

Moving to Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, is not just about keeping up with the switch-off. It can also improve the way your business operates.

Lower costs

VoIP uses your internet connection rather than separate traditional phone lines, which can help reduce line rental and call costs.

More flexibility

Your team can make and receive calls from different locations using desk phones, laptops or mobile devices. This is especially useful for hybrid and remote working.

Easier scalability

Adding or removing users is usually much simpler with a digital phone system, which helps if your business changes over time.

Better features

VoIP platforms often include useful tools such as call forwarding, voicemail to email, reporting, video calling and integration with wider business systems.

A smoother route to modern communications

A move away from PSTN can support wider improvements too, from better resilience to a more joined-up communications experience.

Do not wait until it becomes urgent

Although the deadline has moved, the direction of travel has not changed. Analogue services are being retired, and businesses that plan early will be in a much stronger position than those that leave it until the last minute.

Acting now gives you time to understand what you rely on, what needs to change, and how to make the move in a way that works for your business.

Next steps for your business

A good place to start is with a simple review:

• what lines and services are currently in use
• which of them still rely on PSTN or ISDN
• whether your connectivity is ready for digital voice
• what level of resilience and flexibility your business needs

From there, you can build a practical plan for moving to a modern communications setup without unnecessary disruption.

Need help reviewing your current setup?

If you are unsure what in your business still relies on PSTN, now is the right time to check.

At dbfb, we can help you review your current environment, identify what may be affected, and plan a smooth move to modern business communications.

Book a review with our team to understand what the PSTN switch-off means for your business and what to do next.

As we progress through the year, businesses across all sectors are gearing up to navigate through the ever-changing landscape of technology. While the telecoms industry is undergoing a significant transformation in 2024, the implications of these changes extend far beyond mere connectivity. In this blog, we’ll explore five key telecoms trends and how they can empower businesses to stay ahead in an era of relentless competition and economic challenges.

1. Great strides for 5G: Unlocking the full potential

By 2024, 5G is expected to be a game-changer, drastically altering the UK business landscape. Apart from its well-known features of facilitating rapid data transfers and reducing latency, 5G offers increased device capacity and consistent reliability, even in high-density environments. This development not only gives companies quick access to cloud apps and downloads, which improves operational effectiveness, but it also acts as a backup connection option, reducing the possibility of expensive outages in the event that traditional broadband infrastructure fails. Furthermore, 5G brings revolutionary features like augmented reality, which completely changes the training and customer engagement spaces. Businesses which adopt 5G establish themselves as leaders in technical advancement and get a competitive edge for a future characterised by seamless connection and

2. Cloud computing takes primetime: Revolutionising infrastructure

While cloud computing isn’t a new concept, it will play a central role in reshaping telecom operations in 2024. Telecom companies are shifting away from private data centres, embracing the cloud for improved scalability and rapid response to demand fluctuations. This transition enables businesses to access and scale resources instantly, eliminating the need for substantial upfront investments in hardware. Moreover, the move to the cloud fosters remote collaboration, creating a more agile and globally connected workforce. Cloud computing is set to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance profitability, making the industry more agile in the face of economic uncertainties.

3. AI-Assisted customer service: A shift in experience

Exceptional customer service is paramount in the competitive business landscape, and in 2024, businesses can look ahead to integrating AI into customer support to deliver instant and accurate responses. AI-driven customer service enhances the overall support experience for customers and stakeholders, offering round-the-clock assistance. Machine learning algorithms analyse customer data, enabling businesses to anticipate needs, tailor recommendations, and improve customer satisfaction, leading to enhanced brand loyalty.

4. Machine learning and AI-assisted network operations: Paving the way for efficiency

In tandem with AI for customer service, AI algorithms and machine learning will optimise network traffic and enhance efficiency. This powerful combination predicts usage patterns, adapts to fluctuating demands, and reconfigures networks accordingly. Additionally, AI will play a role in preventive and predictive maintenance, ensuring reliable networks and informed decision-making. This transformative approach not only enhances network reliability but also empowers businesses to make data-driven decisions, fostering a more agile and competitive operational environment.

5: Increased cyber-attacks: A call for robust cybersecurity

As digital and cloud-based solutions become more integral to businesses, the need for cybersecurity is paramount. The rapid rise of 5G will undoubtedly bring increased security threats, requiring heightened cybersecurity efforts to ensure customer and business data is fully protected. Telecom providers are focusing on strengthening threat detection, enhancing incident response methods, and implementing prevention measures to secure their customers’ businesses. Tools like blockchain technology play a crucial role in enhancing security through third-party collaborations, and can help lower costs for providers and customers alike. By eliminating central points of vulnerability, businesses can establish a robust defence against cyber threats, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality in an interconnected digital landscape.

In summary, the ways in which we communicate will continue to see significant transformation over the coming years, and businesses can reap the benefits by embracing these trends. These innovations pave the way for resilient and future-ready organisations. So, stay connected, stay secure, and embark on this exciting journey into the future of communications!

At dbfb, we reflect on our remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming a regional tech powerhouse. Founded by visionaries Brian Kingston and Bill Oliver 25 years ago, our story is one of constant evolution and unwavering dedication to our community and customers. As we look ahead to an exciting future, we’re ready to meet any challenges that come our way.

From Database for Business to Tech Leader

Our journey began as Database for Business (dbfb), specialising in mobile phones and airtime. Today, we stand as one of the region’s premier independent technology providers. Our reputation spans beyond mobile solutions, encompassing connectivity, cloud telephony, and comprehensive IT solutions. Notably, we’ve played a pivotal role in bringing high-speed fibre optics to Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes, laying the foundation for a connected world. Looking forward, we’re embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to streamline operations for the benefit of our valued customers.

Local Commitment and Expertise

When Simon Pickering joined us as Managing Director in 2016, two things drew him to dbfb. Firstly, our wholesale approach, granting us control over pricing and contract terms, and secondly, our roots as a local business serving local customers. Simon reflects on the journey, saying, “Bill and Brian saw an opportunity and took it. In those days, mobile phones were used for calls and texting, and no one could have imagined in 1998 where all this would end up. Who could have foreseen the likes of the iPhone and modern-day functionality?”

Unrivalled Product Selection and Expertise

As an independent provider, we have the freedom to select products from a wide range of options, ensuring tailored solutions for all our customers. Our commitment to expertise is evident at our new customer centre in our expanded Moulton Park offices. Here, we showcase a core list of solutions, all of which we use daily in our own operations. Simon emphasises, “Customers need to trust us – they want us to work with them to implement solutions that enhance their processes and productivity.”

Adapting to Change and Supporting Our Community

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated technology adoption, and we were there to guide businesses and individuals through this transformation. “People want us to educate them on how to leverage technology for the benefit of their businesses and employees,” says Simon.

In 2017, our partnership with CityFibre brought ultrafast fibre connectivity to Northamptonshire businesses, revolutionising connectivity for homes and businesses alike. This laid the foundation for 5G capabilities. “We were at the forefront of the full-fibre revolution,” Simon proudly states.

The Future: Growth, Commitment, and Sustainability

Looking forward, we’re committed to embracing the next technological revolution – AI. While human interaction remains vital, we aim to harness AI’s power to increase productivity for both our customers and ourselves.

In the past two years, we’ve exceeded our five-year plan, growing from a £2.5 million turnover company with 12 team members to a £12 million turnover business employing 50 individuals and counting. The future holds exciting prospects, with ambitious growth goals on the horizon.

Our commitment to community remains unwavering. We continue to support Cynthia Spencer Hospice in memory of our co-founder, Bill Oliver. Additionally, we back the academies at Northamptonshire County Cricket and Northampton Town FC and are exploring apprenticeship partnerships to nurture local talent.

As Simon Pickering aptly puts it, “It is important to us to put something back into the local community.” Our commitment to sustainability is steadfast, recognising that even small businesses must consider their impact on the world. “Businesses that don’t take these issues seriously will face challenges in the coming years,” says Simon.

We remain resolute in our vision for the future, summarised in our straightforward business goals:

• SME Dominance: Establishing a dominant presence in the regional SME marketplace.
• Enterprise Excellence: Pioneering innovation, delivering industry-leading services, and offering flexible contractual arrangements.
• Framework Success: Proudly securing a place on the Crown Commercial Services Network 3 framework to serve the public sector.
• Acquisition Drive: Commitment to ongoing business growth, expanding regional influence.

With unwavering dedication to growth, flexibility, competitiveness, and local service, dbfb is poised to continue its legacy of excellence for the next 25 years and beyond.

Business Resilience: How Simon Pickering Rebuilt After Losing Everything

Running a business is often described as an exciting journey, but in reality, it is just as challenging as it is rewarding. The path to success is rarely straightforward, and even the most driven entrepreneurs can face moments where everything feels uncertain. As highlighted in this story, setbacks are not only possible, they are often inevitable.

Simon Pickering’s experience is a powerful reminder of this reality. Like many business leaders, he faced a period where things didn’t go to plan and came dangerously close to losing everything he had built. Situations like these can test not only financial resilience but also personal determination, confidence, and long-term vision. It is in these moments that the true character of a business leader is revealed.

Rather than walking away, Simon chose to push forward. His mindset summed up in his own words as the determination to “go again” demonstrates the importance of resilience in business. Failure, while difficult, can often become a turning point. It forces reflection, encourages learning, and ultimately builds a stronger foundation for future success.

This story also highlights a broader truth about entrepreneurship: success is rarely about avoiding failure altogether. Instead, it’s about how individuals respond when challenges arise. The ability to adapt, reassess, and continue moving forward is what separates businesses that recover and grow from those that do not.

At dbfb, this philosophy is reflected in their approach to supporting businesses. By focusing on clear communication, transparency, and practical solutions, we aim to help organisations navigate uncertainty and continue progressing. Our belief in understanding each client’s unique situation ensures that businesses of shapes and sizes whether that be SME or Enterprise are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive

Ultimately, Simon’s journey serves as both a cautionary tale and a source of inspiration. It reinforces the idea that setbacks do not define success, persistence does. For any business owner facing challenges, the message is clear: even when things go wrong, there is always an opportunity to rebuild, refocus, and come back stronger than before.

Discover more about the story of how dbfb became what it is today as Richard Osbourne of UK Business Forum sits down with Simon Pickering in this riveting interview!