COMMENTARY: We’ve all heard the saying, “You can’t be too careful.”This statement is especially relevant when talking about cybersecurity. With so many valuable assets and data to protect, why would an organization leave any element of its cyber defenses to chance?That’s why zero-trust is so important – it doesn’t take chances.Zero-trust is a security framework that is redefining how organizations protect their assets, users, and data in today’s cloud-driven world. Operating on the principle of “never trust, always verify,” zero-trust eliminates the implicit trust of network-centric security and requires dynamic verification for every access request.Unlike legacy security models, which assume anything inside a network is trustworthy by default, zero-trust requires verification from all entities, regardless of device or location, before access is granted. This proactive approach minimizes the potential impact of breaches by limiting lateral movement within the network, reducing the risk of insider threats, and enhancing overall security posture.Still, some business leaders hesitate to implement zero-trust into their cybersecurity defense, seeing it as an abstract or overhyped concept. Some technical teams may also resist zero-trust due to a lack of support or resources to make it happen.This is where MSSPs can step in and make a difference by turning that hesitation into progress. Let’s take a look at how.Building stakeholder-specific road maps that outline everything from implementation steps to benefits. Providing education plus proof of concept to show what zero-trust actually looks like in action. Easing into zero-trust implementation and making it less overwhelming by utilizing risk-based, incremental approaches. Mapping zero-trust to compliance requirements to give business value. Emphasizing a vendor-neutral approach that allows for flexibility. Serving as ongoing advisors rather than just implementers. Updating road maps quarterly as the organization and threat landscape evolve. Supporting continuous validation and improvement, not just initial deployment.
MSSP Alert Perspectives columns are written by trusted members of the managed security services, value-added reseller and solution provider channels or MSSP Alert's staff. Do you have a unique perspective you want to share? Check out our guidelines here and send a pitch to [email protected].
The Zero-Trust Disconnect
Even if an organization’s leadership may sign off on zero-trust as a concept, their frontline cybersecurity team may still be opposed to the idea. Reasons could vary from not having clear guidance or sufficient support to being left out of critical conversations about what the company needs to improve its security posture.MSSPs are encountering a number of other common challenges and misconceptions around zero-trust, too. Oftentimes, customers may misunderstand what zero-trust actually means, or they fear disruption and complexity. They may also feel that the cost or lack of ROI is too great.Organizations also struggle with implementation. A global survey by Gartner showed that while 63% of organizations have fully or partially implemented a zero-trust strategy, this approach usually covers half or less than half of their organization. And unfortunately, this typically mitigates only a quarter or less of the overall enterprise risk.MSSPs as Zero-Trust Translators and Accelerators
Having an MSSP can make it much easier for companies to understand exactly what they’re getting with zero-trust.Some steps that MSSPs can take to achieve this include:Aligning Metrics to Show Business Impact
One of the best ways to convince organization heads and IT leaders of the value of zero-trust is to present them with compelling data on exactly how it will make an impact.When speaking to executives, it’s worth mentioning that their organization will see reduced risk exposure and an improved compliance posture. For IT teams, you should point out that, with zero-trust, they’ll see fewer alerts, simplified access control, and improved detection and response.Lastly, be sure to discuss how zero-trust will result in measurable progress in areas such as identity segmentation, MFA coverage, and device posture scores. At the end of the day, it’s hard to argue with clear, compelling data.Building Long-Term Partnerships Through a Zero Trust Lens
Zero-trust is a journey, not a one-time project. Having an MSSP along for that journey is critical to ensuring that businesses are getting the most out of their zero-trust strategy.Some ways that MSSPs can help with this while simultaneously strengthening their own client retention and trust include:The Time to Lead Is Now
With hybrid work environments becoming more common, compliance mandates evolving, and cyber attacks rising, zero-trust adoption will continue accelerating. In fact, by 2032, the global zero-trust security market is expected to reach $133 billion USD.MSSPs can be a part of shaping the future by guiding clients past buzzwords and confusion and toward measurable progress. Skepticism doesn’t need to be a roadblock; it’s an invitation to educate, engage, and lead.MSSP Alert Perspectives columns are written by trusted members of the managed security services, value-added reseller and solution provider channels or MSSP Alert's staff. Do you have a unique perspective you want to share? Check out our guidelines here and send a pitch to [email protected].
