MSP security essentials for every IT service provider

Introduction

Customers of all sizes realize it's imperative to protect their businesses from the modern cyber perils. The urgency for upgraded security has some powerful drivers. The growing awareness of potentially debilitating threats like ransomware is one such driver. The potentially hefty fines for not complying with data protection regulations, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, General Data Protection Regulation, and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, is another. Cybersecurity has become an unavoidable part of running a business, and many customers, overwhelmed by the requirements, are reaching out to service providers for help. However, the growing demand for managed security services is outpacing the supply of MSP security firms ready to meet the challenges.

This guide is a boot camp for managed services providers looking to beef up their security practices. You'll find an overview of the MSP's role in the current cybersecurity landscape. We also provide a series of 'how to' articles exploring the various aspects of setting up and developing your MSP security capabilities. Finally, we end this guide with a look at emerging opportunities, and threats, that MSPs should be prepared for.

1MSP security landscape-

First thing's first: Focusing on security

MSPs run the gamut from hardened security experts to absolute beginners; yet, they all share a common responsibility for protecting their customers' assets from malicious actors and potential breaches. In the following selection of articles, you'll see ways MSPs are involved -- and getting started -- in the security market today.

2From MSP to MSSP-

Jumpstart your MSP security practice

This is the section where we provide a number of 'how to' articles. You'll find tips ranging from dealing with staffing challenges to developing specific types of offerings such as security awareness training.

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Solving the cybersecurity skills gap

Hire high-level security professionals or develop them internally? MSPs share their advice for acquiring and retaining talent. Continue Reading

Answer

Create an internal cybersecurity program

Having in place a cybersecurity program for your MSP is smart first step for becoming a cybersecurity firm, says Jason McNew, CEO of Stronghold Cyber Security. Continue Reading

Integrated security suites vs. best-of-breed products

Read this guide to weigh both sides of the debate over best-in-class point products versus integrated security suites. Continue Reading

Tip

Planning for black swan events

Marc Langer, president of Recovery Point, offers advice on how to protect customers against black swan ransomware attacks. Continue Reading

News

Tips for targeting the right market

Once MSPs develop a line of security services, their customer bases might shift from the client types they're familiar with. Continue Reading

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Differentiating with printer security

Printer security offers a compelling differentiator for MSPs in the managed print services space. Continue Reading

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A transition to the cloud security market

Get tips from Gary Fish, CEO of Fishtech, on how traditional security firms can reinvent their businesses in the cloud. Continue Reading

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The security awareness layer

End-user training can be among the most important aspects of protecting an organization. Some MSPs have chosen to include it as part of their security offerings. Continue Reading

3Looking ahead-

Prepare for future security trends

Once your MSP security practice is underway, a number of emerging opportunities and concerns are worth keeping an eye on. We've highlighted some of these security trends in this selection of articles.