As we move into the second half of 2025, the cybersecurity landscape is growing more complex, but the fundamentals remain as critical as ever. This week’s Cyber Call brought together leading MSP experts to share actionable insights on how managed service providers can better protect clients and drive growth. The key takeaway? Double down on the basics. The Verizon DBIR reinforced that essential cyber hygiene—like regular patching, strong password policies, multi-factor authentication, and consistent employee training—is still the foundation of an effective defense.
The panel also explored the shift toward Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), which is increasingly replacing outdated VPNs. ZTNA reduces attack surfaces, enhances user experiences, and supports stronger security controls by verifying every access request. MSPs should begin evaluating ZTNA solutions and clearly communicate their benefits to clients as part of a larger security strategy.
Another hot topic was the decision to outsource your Security Operations Center (SOC). Once MSPs hit a certain client count—typically around 25 to 30—it becomes more efficient to outsource SOC functions to ensure 24/7 monitoring and compliance across diverse environments. The discussion emphasized understanding when the cost, complexity, and staffing needs justify outsourcing.
The call also addressed cloud security, particularly Microsoft 365. MSPs were reminded of the shared responsibility model, where Microsoft secures the infrastructure, but it’s up to the client—and the MSP—to configure settings and enforce best practices. Regular 365 assessments and focused recommendations can make a big impact without overwhelming the client.
Finally, the conversation turned toward differentiation. In a crowded MSP market, those who speak the language of business—tying cybersecurity to operational risk, downtime, and compliance—will stand out. Offering proactive assessments, peer benchmarking, and industry-specific expertise can help MSPs not just retain clients, but grow their value and service offerings.
The path forward is clear: reinforce the fundamentals, adopt strategic technologies like ZTNA, understand your clients’ businesses, and lead with expertise. By doing so, MSPs can offer stronger protection and tap into new opportunities to monetize their services in an evolving threat environment.
