The changing role of the MSP: What does this mean for security?

"The support provided by MSPs is especially critical for time and resource-strapped small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Indeed, many MSPs work with SMEs to provide and administer vital resources from office software packages to awareness training and network security needs. As of 2024, it was estimated that globally there were roughly 130,000 MSPs, a market that was over $340bn. By 2026, MSPs are tipped to be worth €234.2 billion to the EU economy."

"MSPs hold a unique position within the IT ecosystem, as they are often responsible for managing and supporting the IT infrastructures, cloud services, and cybersecurity of many different organizations. These trusted partners often have privileged access to the inner workings of the organizations they support, including access to the critical systems, sensitive information, and intellectual property of their clients. As such, they're seen as very valuable targets for cybercriminals. Breaching one MSP can give a malicious actor a foothold into a vast network of that MSP"

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) supply outsourced IT, cybersecurity, and operational services that help organizations streamline processes and meet compliance requirements. MSPs are essential for time- and resource-constrained small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), delivering services from office software and awareness training to network security. The MSP market numbered roughly 130,000 providers globally in 2024 and exceeded $340 billion in value, with projected EU economic contributions of €234.2 billion by 2026. In 2025, demand for specialized cyber support increased while MSPs faced greater scrutiny as critical supply-chain components. MSPs' privileged access makes them attractive targets for widespread cyberattacks.

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