In today’s digital world, the threat of cyber-attacks looms over businesses and individuals alike. The UK, being a global hub for technology, faces significant challenges in safeguarding its digital infrastructure from cyber threats. As the sophistication and frequency of cyber-attacks continue to rise, businesses in the UK are turning to Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to fortify their cyber security defences. In this blog, we will explore the role that MSPs hold, in enhancing cyber security and why they have become a vital resource for businesses across the UK.
Cyber security threats have become more complex, targeting businesses of all sizes and industries. High-profile data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other cyber incidents have demonstrated the potential for severe financial, reputational, and operational damage. The UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2022 revealed that 39% of UK businesses experienced a cyber-attack or breach in the previous year.
What role do Managed Service Providers (MSPs) like OES have?
Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are third-party organisations that specialise in managing and delivering a range of IT support services, including cyber security. By leveraging their expertise and resources, MSPs play a crucial role in mitigating cyber risks. Here are some key ways MSPs contribute to enhancing cybersecurity in the UK:
Proactive Measures
Implementing proactive approaches to identify vulnerabilities, implement safeguards, and monitor systems in real-time. They use advanced threat detection technologies, intrusion prevention systems, and security analytics tools to detect and respond to potential threats promptly.
Patch Management and Updates
Ensure that all software, operating systems, and applications are regularly patched and updated with the latest security fixes. This reduces the risk of known vulnerabilities being exploited by cyber criminals.
Access to Cutting-Edge Technologies
MSPs have access to industry leading cyber security technologies that may not be readily available to individuals. They can deploy and manage advanced firewalls, intrusion detection systems, secure remote access solutions, and encryption tools to protect sensitive data.
Compliance and Regulatory Support
Assist businesses in navigating complex data protection regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. They help businesses develop and implement policies and procedures that ensure compliance and minimize legal and financial risks.
Employee Awareness and Training
Provide comprehensive cybersecurity awareness programs and training to employees. This helps foster a security conscious culture within teams, empowering individuals to recognise and respond to potential threats efficiently.
Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
Implement robust backup and disaster recovery plans to ensure business continuity in the event of a cyber incident or system failure. They create secure offsite backups, implement disaster recovery solutions, and conduct regular tests to verify the effectiveness of these measures.
To conclude, OES plays a vital role in enhancing Cyber Security to businesses across North Wales and the North West, whether a business is an existing IT Support or Managed Print customer or a new opportunity that has an existing technology partner in place requiring third party advice. As an MSP, OES offer proactive measures to assist businesses with an improvement on their stance to Cyber Crime, from implementing bespoke employee training, compliance and regulation support and a range of dedicated security tools to increase defences again the ever increasing threat of cyber attacks.
Ian Hutchinson – Senior Web Designer/Developer
‘Mac’ joined OES following an impressive 24 years in the British Army, bringing with him a wealth of experience he could transfer to ‘civvy street’.
Wayne has been with OES since leaving the British Army in June 2012. He became the Managing Director in 2016 and then Owner in 2021. His 15 year career in the Army is where he refined his skills in project management, problem solving and leadership. He has led the growth of OES focusing on delivering innovative solutions and outstanding service.