Why Endpoint Protection is a Necessity in Any MSP’s Toolkit

As the sophistication and prevalence of cyber threats grow, the need for advanced endpoint protection has intensified for businesses of all sizes. This urgency is further amplified by the rise of remote working, as employees increasingly access corporate data from various devices and locations, expanding the potential attack surface. Consequently, endpoint protection has never been more vital.

Endpoint protection ensures that all devices accessing a network are safeguarded against potential threats. There are different types of endpoint protection which, in combination, can be utilised to detect, block, and respond to malicious activities targeting corporate devices. The main objectives of endpoint protection are to prevent unauthorised access, secure sensitive data, detect and eliminate malware, and provide tools for monitoring and incident response.

We’ve delved into the world of Endpoint Protection with Nathan Eames, Director for EMEA Cloud & MSP at Bitdefender, to explore why Endpoint Protection is a necessity in any MSP’s toolkit, the importance of having endpoint protection for end-users, and how Bitdefender’s offering could be the endpoint protection solution for you.  

The Importance of Endpoint Protection for Businesses

The proliferation of endpoint devices has expanded the attack surface, providing hackers with more potential entry points than ever before.

Nathan explains:   

“Endpoints (PCs, smartphones, tablets) give end users access to sensitive data and applications that are critical for the day-to-day operations of a company. They are vulnerable to malware, ransomware, phishing, and other criminal practices, meaning they are frequently the entry spots for cyberattacks.”

As cyber threats become more sophisticated and prevalent, companies with weak defences are sitting ducks for ruthless cybercriminals seeking a quick and easy payout. There are many reasons every business should have a robust endpoint protection solution in place, including:

Growing Threat Landscape: SMBs are increasingly becoming targets for cyberattacks. Contrary to popular belief, attackers don’t only target large enterprises; they often see SMBs as low-hanging fruit due to perceived weaker security measures.

Limited IT Resources: Many SMBs might not have a dedicated IT department, making it challenging to manage and monitor a complex array of devices and software. Endpoint protection solutions can simplify and automate protection.

Protection of Sensitive Data: SMBs, like any other business, handle sensitive data, whether it’s customer information, financial records, or proprietary business details. A breach could result in loss of reputation, customer trust, and potential legal repercussions.

Cost of a Data Breach: While large corporations might survive the financial hit of a major data breach, for many SMBs, the associated costs (both direct and indirect) can be devastating and possibly result in the business closing.

Regulatory Compliance: All companies, including SMBs, must adhere to the UK Data Protection Act. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines and penalties.

The Value of Providing Endpoint Protection

Offering endpoint protection is a compelling and strategic move for MSPs for many reasons. As Nathan explains: 

“Maintaining their customers’ trust is key for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), who need to profitably manage heterogenous IT systems hosting or providing access to sensitive data. The endpoints are vulnerable, so MSPs need a robust and compliant security platform for prevention, detection, and mitigation of cyberattacks on each of their customers’ IT assets.”

An endpoint protection solution offers MSPs with…

Holistic Security Offering: Endpoint protection can be a part of a broader security suite that an MSP offers, allowing them to provide a holistic security solution to customers. This is especially appealing to businesses looking for a one-stop shop for their IT and security needs.

Consistent Revenue Stream: Offering endpoint protection can be a source of recurring revenue for MSPs. As businesses continuously need to safeguard their devices, they will likely subscribe to endpoint protection services on an ongoing basis.

Enhanced Customer Trust: By providing robust endpoint protection, MSPs can build and maintain trust with their customers. Businesses will recognise the MSP’s commitment to security, which can lead to longer and more profitable relationships.

Differentiation in the Market: Providing endpoint protection can be a differentiator. MSPs that offer comprehensive security solutions can stand out in the crowded marketplace.

Support in Developing New Revenue Streams

It’s easy to feel confused by the wide range of endpoint protection solutions. At intY we are committed to supporting our MSPs by providing best-of-breed technology solutions. Our dedicated team of security experts works hand in hand with you to understand your endpoint protection landscape. We will identify your requirements and create a security stack that fully meets your business needs and that of your customer base.

MSPs can capitalise on the growing demand for managed security services by delivering advanced managed security technology through a cost-effective business model that will help them maximise profits. 

Endpoint Protection with Bitdefender

Bitdefender GravityZone Cloud MSP Security is one of these technologies. Nathan explains: 

“With Bitdefender GravityZone integrated security platform, MSPs can effectively manage the risks posed by vulnerabilities, security misconfigurations, and human error. Our layered security approach allows MSPs to offer around-the-clock monitoring, sophisticated threat detection, and remediation capabilities, all while supporting their security teams that are struggling with staffing shortages, alert fatigue, and a need to streamline operations.”

Bitdefender GravityZone Cloud MSP Security uses a single platform to manage security and provisioning for all customers with monthly usage-based licensing. The highly effective and unified solution includes core security with optional advanced add-ons and flexible licensing and offers MSPs the simplicity and flexibility needed to provide their own profitable and market-leading managed security services.

Bolstering Defences and Profits

In today’s hyper-connected world, the significance of endpoint protection cannot be overstated. Modern businesses, regardless of size, are engaged in a continuous digital tug-of-war, balancing innovation with security. MSPs, standing at the forefront of this digital transformation, face the unique responsibility of safeguarding their customer’s systems and data. Extending this to protect digital assets would be a logical and lucrative service add-on.

For both MSPs and their customers, integrating endpoint protection into their cybersecurity stack isn’t just a recommendation – it’s a fundamental necessity. With hybrid working the norm for many companies, MSPs must evolve their service offerings to meet their customers’ needs or risk being left behind.

Unsure of where to start? Partnering with intY can provide the resources, support, and expertise you need to create new revenue-generating endpoint protection services.

Contact us today for advice from the experts at intY.