October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month—Is Your Business Protected?

Hello Eaglebrooke neighbors! I’m David Thornton, founder of A Better Choice Network Solutions. I’ve lived and worked in the Lakeland area for many years, and I’m proud to serve as a trusted IT partner for small and mid-sized businesses throughout West Central Florida. What drives me most is helping local businesses thrive by keeping them secure, connected, and confident in their technology.

Before starting my IT career, I served for 26 years in law enforcement. In that first chapter of my life, I witnessed firsthand how rapidly technology was transforming every aspect of society—including the way crimes were committed and investigated. From the introduction of body cams and mobile data terminals to the rise of cybercrime, it became clear that technology was no longer a side tool—it was becoming the battlefield itself. That realization ignited a new passion in me.

I shifted gears into corporate technology and compliance, eventually founding A Better Choice Network Solutions to serve businesses that needed practical, professional, and proactive IT support. I realized there were countless business owners who were experts at what they do—but didn’t have a partner they could trust to manage their technology and keep them secure. That’s where we come in.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to ask yourself: Is your business really protected? Hackers increasingly target small businesses, knowing that many lack the resources for in-house cybersecurity. That’s why we specialize in affordable, right-sized solutions. Our services include managed IT support, HIPAA and PCI compliance consulting, VoIP phone systems, cloud backup, disaster recovery planning, and employee cybersecurity training.

What makes us different? For starters, we don’t outsource our support. When you call us, you’re speaking directly to someone local who understands both your business and your community. We also don’t force our clients into cookie-cutter packages. Whether you run a medical practice, a CPA firm, or a construction company, we tailor our services to fit your needs. Most of our clients stay with us for the long haul—and we grow together.

Personally, I live just minutes from Eaglebrooke with my wonderful wife, who inspires me daily. Together, we enjoy hiking Florida’s trails, cooking heart-healthy meals, and giving back to the community. I’m also active in several local business groups, including one I co-lead called Lakeland Biz Pros.

Community involvement is central to our mission. We host educational events on cybersecurity best practices, support local non-profits, and offer discounted services to start-ups and mission-driven organizations. We believe strong, secure businesses build stronger communities.

So, what’s my advice this Cybersecurity Awareness Month? Don’t wait until you’ve been hacked to take cybersecurity seriously. If you rely on email, store client information, or process payments, you’re already a target. The good news? Securing your business doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. It starts with a conversation—and the right partner.

I’m grateful every day for the trust our clients place in us. Our success comes from a simple formula: do what’s right, respond quickly, and always look out for the people we serve. I also appreciate this neighborhood publication—Stroll Eaglebrooke is a great reminder of what makes this community special.

Let’s connect! If you have questions about cybersecurity or IT—or just want to talk over coffee—I’d love to meet you.

A Better Choice Network Solutions

863-232-4554