Secure by Default: Elevating MSP Security Standards
11/14/24 • 35 min
In This Podcast, You’ll Learn:
The difference between "secure by design" and "secure by default" and how MSPs can benefit from both.
How secure-by-default features help MSPs protect clients without complex configurations.
Why secure-by-default settings improve resilience and operational efficiency for MSPs.
Practical steps MSPs can take to move customers toward a secure-by-default architecture.
How to communicate the value of secure-by-default solutions to clients.
### Episode Summary ###
In today’s episode, Pete Roythorne hosts N-able’s Chief Security Officer, Dave MacKinnon, and VP of Security Products, Jim Waggoner, to discuss the next step for MSPs: a secure-by-default approach to software security. Dave and Jim clarify the difference between secure-by-design and secure-by-default, noting how MSPs are pivoting from security as a buzzword to security as a business resilience strategy. They also cover the challenges vendors face in making their products secure by default and why transparency and simplicity are essential for building and maintaining trust.
Through examples and real-life scenarios, Jim and Dave outline how MSPs can use security to their advantage, ensuring consistency in their operations and client offerings. They stress the importance of educating customers on the why behind security features, highlighting that this approach not only strengthens client relationships but also reinforces the MSP’s role as a trusted partner. Wrapping up, they share their outlook on the future of security, including transparency and community-driven solutions that can help MSPs stay one step ahead in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
### Key Takeaways ###
1. **Secure by Design vs. Secure by Default**: Understand how secure by design lays the groundwork, while secure by default ensures security out of the box for MSP products, reducing client configuration complexity.
2. **Value of Consistent Security Stacks**: By implementing uniform, secure-by-default settings, MSPs improve their operational efficiency, making support and response more streamlined and effective.
3. **Emphasizing Resilience over Security**: Instead of positioning security features as a barrier, MSPs can frame them as part of a resilience strategy that protects business continuity and operational integrity.
4. **Client Communication**: Clear, transparent communication on why secure settings are essential can help clients understand the true value of security, leading to stronger buy-in.
5. **Future of Security Transparency**: The industry is moving toward greater security transparency, which fosters a collaborative community between MSPs, vendors, and customers to combat emerging threats.
Disclaimer: This podcast provides educational information about issues that may be relevant to information technology service providers. Nothing in the podcast should be construed as any recommendation or endorsement by N-ab
Disclaimer: This podcast provides educational information about issues that may be relevant to information technology service providers. Nothing in the podcast should be construed as any recommendation or endorsement by N-able, or as legal or any other advice. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by N-able employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of N-able or its officers and directors. The podcast may also contain forward-looking statements regarding future product plans, functionality, or development efforts that should not be interpreted as a commitment from N-able related to any deliverables or timeframe. All content is based on information available at the time of recording, and N-able has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. https://www.n-able.com
In This Podcast, You’ll Learn:
The difference between "secure by design" and "secure by default" and how MSPs can benefit from both.
How secure-by-default features help MSPs protect clients without complex configurations.
Why secure-by-default settings improve resilience and operational efficiency for MSPs.
Practical steps MSPs can take to move customers toward a secure-by-default architecture.
How to communicate the value of secure-by-default solutions to clients.
### Episode Summary ###
In today’s episode, Pete Roythorne hosts N-able’s Chief Security Officer, Dave MacKinnon, and VP of Security Products, Jim Waggoner, to discuss the next step for MSPs: a secure-by-default approach to software security. Dave and Jim clarify the difference between secure-by-design and secure-by-default, noting how MSPs are pivoting from security as a buzzword to security as a business resilience strategy. They also cover the challenges vendors face in making their products secure by default and why transparency and simplicity are essential for building and maintaining trust.
Through examples and real-life scenarios, Jim and Dave outline how MSPs can use security to their advantage, ensuring consistency in their operations and client offerings. They stress the importance of educating customers on the why behind security features, highlighting that this approach not only strengthens client relationships but also reinforces the MSP’s role as a trusted partner. Wrapping up, they share their outlook on the future of security, including transparency and community-driven solutions that can help MSPs stay one step ahead in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
### Key Takeaways ###
1. **Secure by Design vs. Secure by Default**: Understand how secure by design lays the groundwork, while secure by default ensures security out of the box for MSP products, reducing client configuration complexity.
2. **Value of Consistent Security Stacks**: By implementing uniform, secure-by-default settings, MSPs improve their operational efficiency, making support and response more streamlined and effective.
3. **Emphasizing Resilience over Security**: Instead of positioning security features as a barrier, MSPs can frame them as part of a resilience strategy that protects business continuity and operational integrity.
4. **Client Communication**: Clear, transparent communication on why secure settings are essential can help clients understand the true value of security, leading to stronger buy-in.
5. **Future of Security Transparency**: The industry is moving toward greater security transparency, which fosters a collaborative community between MSPs, vendors, and customers to combat emerging threats.
Disclaimer: This podcast provides educational information about issues that may be relevant to information technology service providers. Nothing in the podcast should be construed as any recommendation or endorsement by N-ab
Disclaimer: This podcast provides educational information about issues that may be relevant to information technology service providers. Nothing in the podcast should be construed as any recommendation or endorsement by N-able, or as legal or any other advice. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by N-able employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of N-able or its officers and directors. The podcast may also contain forward-looking statements regarding future product plans, functionality, or development efforts that should not be interpreted as a commitment from N-able related to any deliverables or timeframe. All content is based on information available at the time of recording, and N-able has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. https://www.n-able.com
Previous Episode
MSP’s Guide to Getting Started With Compliance as a Service
In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, Stefanie Hammond steps in to interview Lewis Pope about the critical role of compliance in the managed services provider (MSP) landscape. They discuss how MSPs can pivot to offer Compliance as a Service (CaaS), the importance of internal assessments, and the challenges faced when implementing compliance strategies. Lewis emphasizes the need for MSPs to adapt to changing client demands, manage internal cultural shifts, and consider partnerships to enhance their compliance capabilities. The conversation highlights key lessons for MSPs looking to enter the compliance space and the proactive nature of compliance management.
Some of the Key Takeaways from this episode
· MSPs must evolve to meet client demands for compliance.
· Compliance as a Service is a growing opportunity for MSPs.
· Internal assessments are crucial before offering compliance services.
· Cultural shifts within MSPs are necessary for compliance success.
· Partnering with other MSPs or MSSPs can enhance service offerings.
· Compliance requires a proactive approach, not just reactive fixes.
· Educating clients about compliance is essential for engagement.
· Realistic expectations about compliance workload are important.
· Communication with clients should be ongoing and transparent.
· Compliance can lead to increased margins and business opportunities.
Check out our Head Nerd Boot Camps and Office Hours
Follow Lewis Pope on Linked-In
Welcome to The MSP Horizons Podcast, your go-to resource for the latest insights, trends, and strategies shaping the world of Managed Service Providers. Hosted by industry veterans, this podcast delves deep into the findings of the MSP Horizons Report and key industry opportunites and initiatives, providing actionable insights to transform your IT business. Each episode features in-depth discussions with experts, thought leaders, and successful MSPs who share their experiences and strategies for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of managed services. From cybersecurity and AI integration to cloud management and compliance, we cover the critical topics that matter most to you. Join us as we explore the future of managed services, uncover growth opportunities, and provide you with the tools and knowledge to stay ahead of the curve.
Whether you're looking to enhance your service offerings, improve customer acquisition, or stay compliant with the latest regulations, The MSP Horizons Podcast is here to guide you every step of the way. Subscribe now and stay at the forefront of the MSP industry, turning challenges into opportunities and vision into reality. Tune in to ensure your business is not just prepared for the future but thriving in it.
Disclaimer: This podcast provides educational information about issues
Disclaimer: This podcast provides educational information about issues that may be relevant to information technology service providers. Nothing in the podcast should be construed as any recommendation or endorsement by N-able, or as legal or any other advice. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by N-able employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of N-able or its officers and directors. The podcast may also contain forward-looking statements regarding future product plans, functionality, or development efforts that should not be interpreted as a commitment from N-able related to any deliverables or timeframe. All content is based on information available at the time of recording, and N-able has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. https://www.n-able.com
Next Episode
MSP Strategies for Navigating the Hybrid Landscape
In this episode of the Beyond the Horizons Podcast, host Pete Roythorne is joined by N-able Head Nerd Joe Ferla, Senior Product Manager Mike Weaver, to discuss the challenges and opportunities for MSPs in managing hybrid environments. They delve into the evolution of RMM tools, the growing need for security, and practical strategies for staying competitive in the ever-changing MSP landscape.
Key Topics Covered
1. The Hybrid Landscape
Despite increasing cloud adoption, traditional on-premises RMM remains critical for certain verticals like healthcare and manufacturing.
The unique challenges of hybrid environments: balancing security, compliance, and cost considerations.
Hybrid isn't a replacement for the cloud but rather a complementary solution in specific cases.
2. Evolving RMM Tools in a Cloud-First World
The importance of RMM tools as data aggregators.
How hybrid environments increase attack surfaces and require advanced visibility.
Moving beyond devices to tenant-level and user-level management for enhanced scalability.
3. Security as a Cornerstone
The necessity of standardized security practices for MSPs.
Avoiding exceptions like skipping MFA to ensure comprehensive client protection.
Conducting tabletop exercises and live simulations with clients to prepare for security incidents.
4. Future Innovations in RMM
Shifting focus from device-centric management to user and tenant-level control.
Leveraging AI and automation to enhance operational efficiency and response times.
Integrating diverse tools into a unified experience without overcomplicating service delivery.
5. MSP Business Strategies
Differentiating services through specialization in hybrid and cloud environments.
Emphasizing long-term business planning and relationships to drive growth.
Expanding market share by addressing client-specific needs with tailored solutions.
6. Actionable Advice for MSPs
Standardize service offerings to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
Invest in scalable tools and processes to manage hybrid environments securely.
Use security drills and robust planning to mitigate risks and build client trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast provides educational information about issues that may be relevant to information technology service providers. Nothing in the podcast should be construed as any recommendation or endorsement by N-able, or as legal or any other advice. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by N-able employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of N-able or its officers and dir
Disclaimer: This podcast provides educational information about issues that may be relevant to information technology service providers. Nothing in the podcast should be construed as any recommendation or endorsement by N-able, or as legal or any other advice. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by N-able employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of N-able or its officers and directors. The podcast may also contain forward-looking statements regarding future product plans, functionality, or development efforts that should not be interpreted as a commitment from N-able related to any deliverables or timeframe. All content is based on information available at the time of recording, and N-able has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. https://www.n-able.com
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