SonicWall executive Michael Crean discusses the current state of managed security
Michael Crean, the EVP of managed security services at SonicWall, has emphasised the need for closer collaboration between Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) to better support the security needs of business customers.
Crean, who was a CEO and founder of a company for 22 years before being acquired by SonicWall in November 2023, argues that many businesses are still missing the fundamentals of security, including multi-factor authentication, identity access management, traditional firewalls, and other basic security measures.
According to Crean, AI-enabled automation can transform the way MSPs, MSSPs, and their customers manage security, particularly in oversight of human actions. He believes that this technology can help identify errors made by humans in provisioning, installing, implementing, or turning off security measures.
Crean sees opportunities in utilizing AI to approach security, but acknowledges that threat actors can also access more efficient workflows due to AI. He suggests that AI can be used to automate tasks that are disliked, such as alert triage and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions.
The EVP of managed security services at SonicWall compares the relationship between MSPs and MSSPs to a team of doctors, each with their own specialties. He states that if an MSP is passionate about being the best in its field, it should partner with an MSSP that is the best in its field.
Crean also mentions the use of AI-enabled Security Operations Centres (SOCs) for faster alert triage as an example of the transformation AI can bring to security management. He suggests that partners should consider the willingness of their customers to adhere to standard security requirements set by the provider.
However, Crean argues that there is room for both MSPs and MSSPs to coexist and work together to best support the needs of businesses worldwide. He states that it is acceptable to terminate a customer relationship if they are causing financial loss due to non-adherence to fundamental security measures.
In conclusion, Michael Crean's insights highlight the importance of collaboration between MSPs and MSSPs in enhancing business security. By working together, these providers can leverage the strengths of each other's specialties and utilise AI to transform the way they manage security, ensuring businesses worldwide are better protected against evolving threats.
