intelligent

Protecting remote devices and employees being breached is just the start . Asked about the top capabilities they now expect from a managed service provider , SMBs based in the UK identified having the ability to respond to security incidents ( 63 %) and minimising potential damage and loss to their business ( 59 %) as key requirements .

With more and more clients looking for more cybersecurity support from their MSP partners , MSPs will need to stay on top of cybertrends and evolve fully fledged suites of solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs of individual customers . But that ’ s just part of what is needed to build the lasting trust of clients and bolster their cyber preparedness .

SMBs also need continual education on cyber hygiene , policy reinforcement and best cybersecurity practice . Those MSPs that participate in ongoing cyber training will be best positioned to strike the right balance between people , processes and cybersecurity technology that will be needed to instil confidence with their clients , keep them protected – and successfully grow their cybersecurity practice .

Moving ahead with confidence

Our study , conducted with 700 IT and business decision makers in the US , UK ,

Canada , Australia and New Zealand , found that over three quarters of SMBs are worried they will be the target of an attack in the next six months . As a result , the majority are planning further investments in the next year to reduce risk .

With nine out of 10 SMBs prepared to use an MSP , or switch MSP , to find the right cybersecurity solution , the message is clear . MSPs will need to raise their understanding across the entire cybersecurity discipline – from technical and customer service capabilities to training , automation and the ability to oversee a constantly expanding attack surface .

Because today ’ s worldly-wise SMBs are looking beyond the tools contained within an MSP ’ s offering to consider other critical elements – an MSP ’ s ability , expertise and trust factor .

Those MSPs that successfully raise their game will be strongly positioned to capitalise on a post-pandemic recovery and better support customers through the evolving cybersecurity challenges that lie ahead . �

Jay Ryerse , CISSP , VP of Cybersecurity Initiatives at ConnectWise

THE MESSAGE HERE IS CLEAR : MSPS WILL NEED TO GET MORE PROACTIVE WHEN IT COMES TO INITIATING CONVERSATIONS ABOUT CYBERSECURITY .