Cybersecurity has truly catapulted from a back-office concern to a boardroom priority. This shift is not unfounded; the surge in cyber threats has left businesses scrambling to fortify their digital defenses. Recognizing this, several states across the US have begun mandating that Managed Service Providers (MSPs) be certified to operate.
This development marks a significant move towards greater accountability and transparency in managed IT services. For businesses of all sizes, this underscores the paramount importance of data protection — a domain where certified MSPs play a crucial role in ensuring cybersecurity and compliance.
In this blog, we will go into why MSPs are being cracked down, what it means for an MSP to be certified, why you should care, and how businesses can ensure their MSP meets these crucial standards for security and compliance.
Why is This Happening?
The move towards more stringent regulations for MSPs is not only logical but imperative. In discussions about the Department of Defense’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), this push for certification arises from an acute awareness of the evolving cybersecurity threats and the critical role that MSPs play in the defense industrial base.
The Pentagon’s initiative to establish a comprehensive framework of cybersecurity requirements under CMMC underscores a broader recognition of the need for elevated security measures. This is particularly relevant for DoD contractors who, increasingly relying on MSPs for IT and cybersecurity needs, necessitate a framework that ensures these providers are adequately secured.
The drive towards regulations and certifications is a reflection of the need for a standardized approach to cybersecurity, ensuring that MSPs serving not just the defense sector but all industries are equipped to protect against sophisticated cyber threats. This is a testament to the importance of cybersecurity in national defense and the integral role of MSPs in maintaining the integrity of sensitive information and systems.
What Does it Mean for an MSP to be Certified?
Managed IT services are no longer a luxury but a necessity for businesses aiming to navigate complex modern operations. At their core, MSPs are the custodians of IT efficiency and security services, ensuring that businesses run smoothly and securely. Certification for these providers is not just a badge of honor; it’s a testament to their competence, professionalism, and adherence to rigorous security standards.
Certifications for Managed Services Providers vary, covering a range of standards and regulations designed to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance, such as:
- SOC 2: A certification that evaluates an MSP’s systems in terms of security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. SOC 2 is based on the Trust Services Criteria, which are established by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).
- ISO 27001: An international standard that specifies the requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system (ISMS). It’s designed to help organizations manage the security of assets such as financial information, intellectual property, employee details, or information entrusted by third parties.
- HIPAA: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act sets the standard for protecting sensitive patient data. Any MSP that deals with healthcare information must ensure that all the required physical, network, and process security measures are in place and followed.
The growing trend of states requiring MSP certification is a testament to the critical role these providers play in the broader cybersecurity ecosystem. This legislative move aims to solidify operational legitimacy and bolster the overall security posture of businesses relying on MSPs.
Why are MSP Certifications Important?
The significance of MSP certifications in today’s digital world cannot be understated, as they serve as a cornerstone for enhanced security, compliance assurance, competitive advantage, and peace of mind for businesses. The introduction of the CMMC is a prime example of the concerted efforts to uplift cybersecurity practices within the MSP community. Certifications ensure that MSPs are fully equipped to tackle the ever-evolving cyber threats. Moreover, as MSPs delve into Compliance-as-a-Service (CaaS), they embrace a critical role in mastering complex regulations such as GDPR, PCI DSS, and HIPAA. This mastery is crucial for ensuring that businesses not only adhere to stringent data privacy laws but also avoid the repercussions of legal issues and financial penalties.
Furthermore, the common misconceptions surrounding the prohibitive cost of certification or the belief that all MSPs provide a similar level of security are effectively countered by the tangible benefits that certifications offer. Such credentials distinguish MSPs in a saturated market, highlighting their dedication to upholding high security and compliance standards. This distinction is particularly valuable for businesses seeking reliable partners who can offer more than just basic cloud services, but a commitment to safeguarding their data and operations.
Lastly, the peace of mind that comes from partnering with a certified MSP is immeasurable. It fosters a trust-based relationship, reassuring businesses that their critical data is managed by providers who adhere to the highest standards of data security and regulatory compliance. This assurance is invaluable in today’s fast-paced, data-driven business environment, making the choice of a certified MSP an essential consideration for any forward-thinking organization.
Why Should You Care if Your MSP is Certified?
The repercussions of partnering with an uncertified MSP — including potential security breaches and compliance failures — can be devastating. These incidents and IT challenges can result in significant financial losses, reputational damage, and legal consequences. Certification serves as a critical litmus test in the MSP selection process, offering a tangible measure of an MSP’s capabilities and alignment with your business’s security and compliance requirements. Moreover, aligning with a certified MSP future-proofs your business against the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, ensuring continuous compliance and security.
This brings us to a pivotal question: Is your current IT service provider certified?
If not, it’s crucial to initiate a conversation regarding their plans to achieve certification. The absence of certification should raise red flags about their commitment to security and compliance standards. If they’re not moving towards certification, it may be time to consider transitioning to a provider that has taken these necessary steps. Your business’s security and compliance are not areas for compromise; they require the assurance that only a certified MSP can provide.
How to Find a Certified MSP
Identifying a certified MSP necessitates a diligent vetting process. Resources such as the MSP Alliance, ISO, and ITIL offer directories and guidance for businesses in search of certified providers. Nerds Support Inc stands out as a beacon in this realm. With over two decades of experience and a track record of excellence recognized by CRN, Nerds Support Inc offers 24/7 support, remote monitoring, cloud services, and security solutions across various sectors. Their SOC 2 Type 2 certification is a testament to their unwavering commitment to data security and reliability.
When evaluating potential MSPs, direct inquiries about their certifications and request documentation as proof of their claims. This step is crucial in verifying that their practices align with the stringent standards your business requires.
Proficiency Should be Your Priority!
The imperative for businesses to partner with a certified MSP has never been more pronounced. In an era where data breaches are not a matter of if but when, ensuring the security and compliance of your business’s data is paramount. Certified MSPs, exemplified by Nerds Support, offer not just services but a partnership grounded in trust, security, and excellence.
As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, the value of a certified MSP in safeguarding your business’s digital assets cannot be overstated. We encourage you to prioritize certifications in your MSP selection process, starting with scheduling a consultation with Nerds Support to assess your data security needs and our service offerings. This proactive step could be the difference between staying ahead of threats or becoming their next victim.
