April 2, 2025
Managed IT providers have always been the go-to experts for keeping businesses technology and operations running smoothly. However, as cyber threats grow more sophisticated, the role of IT support is shifting. Clients now expect more than system uptime and troubleshooting—they want assurance that their data and operations are secure.
With cyber-attacks making headlines and regulatory pressures increasing, security is no longer just a concern for large enterprises. For Managed IT providers, that shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
“Businesses are looking to their Managed IT providers for cyber security guidance, whether they realise it or not,” says Matt Bruce, Director at Bruce &Butler. “The assumption is that if you’re managing their IT, you’ve got security covered too. But cyber security is a specialist field that moves fast—it requires constant monitoring, evolving strategies, and expertise in areas like penetration testing, incident response, and compliance.”
Cybercriminals know that mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are now prime targets precisely because they often lack in-house security expertise. Many businesses naturally turn to their IT providers for help, expecting them to handle IT support and security.
For manyIT businesses, the challenge is meeting these growing security expectations without overextending resources or taking on risks beyond their expertise.
Some key questions IT providers are asking:
Matt believes the key is knowing when to bring in dedicated security expertise.
“Managed IT providers don’t need to become full-scale security consultancies overnight.However, they need a strategy for handling security issues when they arise—whether vulnerability management, penetration testing, or responding to an incident. The worst thing you can do is wait until something goes wrong before figuring out your approach.”
One approach is to collaborate with a specialist cybersecurity partner. This allows IT providers to focus on their core strengths while ensuring clients receive the security expertise they expect.
“When IT providers bring in a third-party security expert, it reassures clients that security isn’t just an afterthought,” says Matt. “It also keeps security separate from IT support, which is increasingly important for compliance and best practice.”
Unlike a white-label service, an independent security partner provides transparency.Clients see that their IT provider takes security seriously enough to involve dedicated specialists rather than using their resource hours.
As cyberthreats evolve, businesses will continue to expect their IT providers to have clear security answers and strategies. A straightforward security approach—an in-house capability or a trusted security partner—will be the key to long-term client trust.
“Clients aren’t just buying IT services anymore—they’re buying confidence,” says Matt.“Managed IT providers who recognise this shift and take proactive steps to address security will be the ones that retain and strengthen their client relationships.”
In a world where security expectations are only increasing, IT providers who adapt will thrive.
To learn how Bruce & Butler can help strengthen your client proposition, visit www.bruceandbutler.com.