Kristian Torode

Kristian Torode is the co-founder and director of Crystaline, offering managed business solutions to SMEs across the UK. He works with and consults businesses to supply mobile, voice, data and unified comms solutions, helping to demystify the world of business technology and provide services that help businesses communicate.

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Simplifying your business mobile estate: tips for managing devices, plans, and costs
Simplifying your business mobile estate: tips for managing devices, plans, and costs

As businesses grow, managing mobile plans can become unexpectedly complex. What starts as a few…

Navigating the PSTN switch-off: steps businesses must take to stay prepared
Navigating the PSTN switch-off: steps businesses must take to stay prepared

With one year to go, preparing for the public switched telephone network (PSTN) switch-off should…

Why your business broadband keeps dropping out and how to fix it

An estimated £3.7 billion was lost by UK businesses due to internet failures in 2023. So, for SMEs relying on Cloud tools, VoIP, and remote work, unreliable internet isn’t just frustrating – it’s costly.

Is your SME prepared for a cyberattack?

Forbes recently revealed that hackers sell full cyber access to small businesses for as little as $600 on the dark web. The rise of AI-driven scams has made it easier for hackers to access company data, giving business owners an unprecedented concern. Here, Kristian Torode, Director and Co-Founder of Vodafone secure device manager provider Crystaline, provides tips on how small-to-medium businesses (SMEs) can enhance their cyber resilience.

Is WhatsApp putting your business at risk?

On February 3rd, 2025, Meta confirmed that WhatsApp had been targeted by a “sophisticated spyware hack attack”. While no businesses were targeted on this occasion, WhatsApp is a popular communications tool among SMEs and the attack raises important questions about the platform’s security.

How can businesses respond to hushed hybrid?

Hushed hybrid is a workplace phenomenon sweeping the nation, involving some of the UK’s biggest companies such as Barclays, Tesco, and Dell Technologies. However, HR managers warn hushed hybrid encourages insubordination and could lead to isolation if team members are not treated equally. Here, Kristian Torode, Director and Co-Founder of specialist IT services provider Crystaline, explains how investing in suitable telecommunications systems can help your business avoid the trend’s consequences.

Technology to support staff retention

Businesses are constantly navigating new challenges, but one to add to the list for 2024 is staff retention. In a recent BT report, 53% of employers admitted experiencing a greater level of voluntary turnover now compared to previous years. So, what can businesses leaders do to keep their talent? Here, Kristian Torode, Director and Co-Founder of unified communications specialist Crystaline, shares his advice on using technology to ensure successful onboarding and long-term retention.

Why delaying your PSTN switch-off prep puts you on the naughty list

Did you realise that Ronaldo joining Al-Nassr, Prince Harry publishing his autobiography, the Lionesses reaching the World Cup final, ChatGPT launching and King Charles’ coronation all happened this year? When we’re caught up in the here-and-now, it’s easy to lose track of time and, before you know it, we’re right back in the festive season. Here, Kristian Torode, Director and Co-Founder of PSTN switch-off specialist Crystaline, explains why you should treat your business to a new phone system this Christmas.

Making the right tech choice

Three in four customers believe calls are the most effective way to contact a company, making smartphones a key business tool in all industries. But with hundreds of makes and models on offer, understanding which devices meet your business needs can be tricky.

What new features does the iPhone 15 offer to simplify business comms?

September only means one thing in the mobile device world, Apple’s annual launch event. This year, among other releases, the event brought all the details of the iPhone 15 – Apple’s latest handset upgrade. Here, Kristian Torode, Director and Co-Founder of business communication technology provider, Crystaline, summarises the latest Apple upgrade and how it could elevate your business comms.

Is remote work dead?

Zoom, which has helped millions of workers connect remotely over the past few years, has done something ironic. It’s asking its workers to spend more time in the office.

The rise of the ‘workcation’

A recent YouGov survey revealed that over a third of UK workers that can work remotely would take a workcation in the next twelve months.

Everything you need to know about full fibre

Fancy streaming ultra-HD video on multiple devices at once? Or downloading an entire music album in under a minute? Or, perhaps, your growing business needs instantaneous access to voice and video calls without any lag time.

How to select the right business phone service

Jargon, buzz words, and constant technical developments can leave businesses overwhelmed with choice when it comes to selecting a communications system. In a digital age, using a comprehensive phone system is crucial to remaining competitive. But how do businesses decide which one is right for them?

What will replace my FTTC connection?

Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) has been a common way of accessing connectivity for some time. Across Britain, we’ve all seen the green metal cabinets dotted around our streets.

How can I make my small business cyber-secure?

Apple rolled out an update to its iOS 16 to fix two major security flaws in February, urging users to upgrade now to avoid cyber threats. It’s not the first time the tech giant has issued security warnings this year, with owners of older Apple models also being urged to upgrade their settings. With hybrid working here to stay, many teams are using their personal devices for work. But what does this mean for business security?

Busting PSTN switch off myths

It’s now less than three years until the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is switched off in the UK, which means businesses must switch to digital now.

Tech tips to cut back business costs

We’re all feeling under pressure right now, with the cost-of-living crisis hitting every business in the UK. While turning the lights on and plugging in your office phone system can’t be avoided, there’s certainly some ways to cut back costs. Here, Kristian Torode, Co-Founder and Director of business telecoms services provider Crystaline shares his top tips for keeping your comms costs low.

Leased line explained

A shift towards hybrid working, increased use of digital channels and the rise of new technologies means that businesses rely on the internet now more than ever. A reliable, high-quality connection is a non-negotiable for efficient operations across all industries, but it’s important to determine the right way to connect for your business. While many businesses opt for broadband, could an Ethernet leased line be a better choice?

3 tips for choosing a business partner

According to data from What Customers Want, 91% of consumers prefer to purchase from small to medium-sized businesses. Why?