Elena Radu, Operational Director of Medialine Romania, states for ZF.ro: "Cybersecurity remains a priority as digital threats become increasingly sophisticated."

In a constantly changing digital landscape, where the pandemic has accelerated both digital technology and companies' ways of working, it is essential for them to stay "up to date" with the latest innovations. Whether we're talking about digitizing businesses, adopting hybrid working models and flexible working processes, or ensuring data security, integrating these concepts becomes crucial in the day-to-day operations of companies. We spoke with Elena Radu, Operational Director of Medialine Romania - an international company specialized in providing complete and customized IT solutions for medium and large enterprises, about how companies should protect their data, why cybersecurity is important, and the trends of 2024 in technology.

The company you represent has earned a reputation as a trusted partner for integrated solutions for companies seeking IT solutions and services. How would you characterize this landscape now, at the beginning of 2024? How do you feel the demand from companies for such services has evolved?
The technological landscape at the beginning of 2024 is highly dynamic, marked by an increased demand for integrated IT solutions and services. This trend is driven by companies' need to adapt to new business realities, including accelerated digitization and the transition to flexible working models. At Medialine, we have noticed an increased demand for Cloud solutions, cybersecurity, optimized IT infrastructure, and the implementation of customized solutions tailored to their business needs. This reflects organizations' need to secure their operations and increase efficiency.
Cybersecurity is a subject of major interest at this time, against the backdrop of the border war and repeated cyberattacks, including on institutions in our country. What cybersecurity solutions does Medialine offer?
Faced with growing concerns about cybersecurity, caused by geopolitical tensions and frequent attacks on institutions, Medialine offers a wide range of solutions to protect businesses. From training employees to recognize and avoid cyber threats, to complex systems that monitor and respond to security incidents in real time. We also provide security audits to identify and remediate vulnerabilities, along with customized solutions for each client, ensuring that data and operations are protected against any threats. Our team is always up to date with the latest security technologies to provide robust and tailored protection to each partner's specific needs.
What advice do you have for companies to protect their data security, information, teams, and partners they work with?
To ensure data and information security, the most important step is continuous education of teams. People are often the biggest security breach, so regular training on cyber risks is essential. In addition to this aspect, it is crucial to have advanced systems for detecting and managing security incidents, as well as a multi-layered approach to data protection. Regular audits, well-established plans for emergency situations, and close collaboration to share information about new threats are also vital. We have noticed that sometimes business leaders may underestimate the importance of cybersecurity, operating under the assumption that serious issues "will not happen to them." It is essential to overcome this mentality and recognize that all companies, regardless of their size, are potential targets. My recommendation for companies and institutions is to collaborate with a trusted security partner like Medialine to help them implement tailored and effective security solutions. Protecting digital assets should be a priority for everyone in a constantly changing digital landscape.
What are the most common requirements you receive regarding cybersecurity?

The advantage of collaborating with our company is that clients find, in one place, integrated services they need. In other words, there is no need to approach multiple providers because Medialine is a provider of comprehensive integrated solutions for companies in need of competent IT services, tailored in line with the latest technological innovations. Clients often ask us for help in protecting themselves from insecure emails, keeping data safe in the Cloud, and complying with data protection rules. They want efficient solutions to protect them from unauthorized access to their information and to keep their business safe. We guide them with practical advice and provide them with advanced, customized technologies tailored to the specific needs and challenges of each company.
The pandemic has had a major impact on the work environment for employees in many industries. What do you think are the main changes brought about by the pandemic in the way of working in the IT industry?
The pandemic has significantly accelerated the adoption of hybrid work models and Cloud solutions in the IT industry. This change has led to an increased need for flexibility, scalability, and security in managing IT resources, with a heightened focus on cost optimization. Companies have begun to appreciate even more the ability to scale services according to needs and to benefit from a higher level of security through Cloud solutions, which offer a controlled environment and compliance with the latest security standards.
What about your clients? How have they reorganized their way of working, and what changes have occurred in the range of products you offer?
Our clients have also adopted flexible working models, reorganizing their workspaces to support both physical presence and remote work. In response to these changes, we have developed products such as FlexiDesk, which allows organizations to efficiently manage flexible workspaces and track office and resource usage. This solution reflects our commitment to innovate and provide solutions tailored to the emerging needs of clients, facilitating a smooth transition to new work models.
What other products from the Medialine portfolio are highly sought after by companies?
In addition to Cloud solutions, Security, Managed Solutions by experts, companies are looking for Business Solutions such as CRM, ERP, and document management systems that allow them to optimize their operations and improve customer experience. Our special sensors for detecting attacks (Attack Defense Sensor by Medialine), part of our cybersecurity suite, are also highly requested due to their ability to provide proactive protection and early alerts against potential threats. Similarly, classic hardware solutions (servers, laptops, advanced firewalls, licenses to facilitate remote collaboration) are in high demand.
What are the benefits you offer to your clients?
Medialine's core values - excellence, innovation, sustainability, collaboration, and loyalty - guide us in providing superior services to our clients. We are committed to providing solutions that not only meet immediate needs but also contribute to the long-term success of our partners. The benefits of collaborating with Medialine include access to extensive technical expertise - a solid experience of over 20 years in the relevant market, operating with over 20 offices in Europe (Germany, Austria, and Romania), and a team of 500 specialists covering the needs of over 2,000 clients. In addition to this, the customized solutions we offer support the digital transformation of companies, contributing to the success of our clients' businesses. Last but not least, we offer a partnership based on trust and transparency, and, very importantly, a partnership for integrated solutions, which provides a complete range of services, as well as consultancy and support.
What are the tech trends for 2024?
For 2024, we see several main directions in technology that will influence businesses. Cloud computing continues to be essential, offering companies flexibility and efficiency. Cybersecurity remains a priority as digital threats become increasingly sophisticated. Additionally, sustainability is gaining ground, with companies looking for technological solutions to help reduce carbon footprint. Moreover, the adoption of emerging technologies such as AI and machine learning is accelerating, opening new possibilities for innovation in all business sectors. At Medialine, we align with these trends, ensuring that we provide current solutions that add value to our clients' businesses.