A Cynet survey has highlighted significant challenges faced by m
Managed service providers (MSPs) face significant challenges as they strive to meet the escalating demand for cybersecurity services.
The Cynet report, titled "Managed Security Snapshot: 2025 Growth, Gaps & Game Plans," reveals that while cybersecurity offerings are enhancing client relationships and driving growth, MSPs are encountering operational hurdles due to fragmented tools, limited automation, and lean security teams.
According to Jason Magee, CEO of Cynet, "Managed cybersecurity services are in record demand as cyberattacks increase in volume and sophistication." The findings underscore the necessity for scalable breach protection to maximise growth within the channel.
Key takeaways from the survey reveal the following insights:
- Growth brings complexity: MSPs manage an average of 50 clients and 1,728 endpoints, responding to over 100 security incidents annually. This growing client base contributes to operational strain.
- Tool sprawl undercuts margins: Most MSPs utilise four different security tools from various vendors, leading to increased complexity that negatively impacts profit margins.
- Limited security headcount: Security specialists account for only 8–20% of the average MSP's workforce, limiting their capacity to respond effectively to incidents.
- Automation as a growth blocker: Half of the respondents cited limited automation as their primary barrier to scaling operations. This finding highlights the critical need for streamlined processes and integrated solutions.
- Shifting vendor trust: A notable 42% of MSPs now use MITRE ATT&CK Evaluations as their primary resource for vendor assessments, indicating a shift in how MSPs evaluate and select their tools.
- Cybersecurity enhances loyalty: An impressive 96% of respondents stated that robust cybersecurity offerings significantly improve client retention.
- Consolidation is key: With 94% of MSPs actively seeking a unified cybersecurity platform, it’s clear that consolidation is on the horizon as a strategy for overcoming current challenges.
As MSPs continue to navigate these complexities, the emphasis on operational efficiency, total visibility, and automated protection will be crucial for sustaining growth and enhancing client trust in an increasingly perilous cyber landscape.
