The channel is about to be walloped by a disruptive wave of consolidation among managed security services providers (MSSP).
A survey from security distributor Distology found that customers (38 percent) saw a link between consolidation and cyber security as a service (CSaaS) as channel players gain the ability to cover more bases through mergers.
Apparently, when IT leaders were asked what would be the biggest disruptions over the next five years, attracting talent was high on the list, which could increase risks for firms.
Distology chief product officer Lance Williams said: “With the way organisations operate having evolved considerably over the last two years, it goes without saying that cyber security needs have also changed and this is only set to continue. We are seeing digital transformation continue to accelerate across most sectors, while more SMEs are digitising their product offering and customer experience.
“This combination is, however, shining a light on the gaps in pre-existing cyber security strategies, which means it is more essential than ever before for leaders to take a holistic view of their approach to cyber security, and the solutions they are adopting, to ensure they are not leaving themselves exposed.”
That customer demand for a holistic approach was one of the drivers of consolidation across the channel, with MSSPs taking steps to ensure they were in a position to provide the breath of support and services that users wanted, he added.
Williams said the M&A activity in the channel had become a concern for some customers, who viewed it as one of the areas that could have an impact on their ability to protect themselves.
