Why Managed Services Are Becoming the New Normal For Exposure Management
The Internet of Things (IoT) and Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) are no longer futuristic concepts; they’re the present reality and critical to most organizations success. From smart factories humming with connected machinery to cities deploying intelligent traffic management systems, we’re surrounded by a rapidly expanding network of interconnected devices. But with this explosion of connected “things” comes a tidal wave of complexity of managing security. Managing this complexity is pushing organizations – from startups to global enterprises – to embrace managed services for their IoT and CPS deployments.
This isn’t just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how businesses are approaching technology. Some of the reasons why managed services are becoming the go-to solution for handling the intricacies of IoT and CPS include that they can immediately provide specialized CPS security skills and capabilities, they can often react faster when there is a cyber attack, and they can scale quickly if there is a need to.
Another reason to engage with managed services for the cyber hygiene of CPS and IoT deployments is to meet all compliance requirements. Compliance adherence is something that many organizations are only starting to focus on for CPS. Many industries are subject to stringent regulations regarding data privacy and security (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA). MSPs can ensure that IoT/CPS deployments comply with relevant standards, reducing the risk of fines and reputational damage.
For many organizations working with an MSP can also provide financial benefits. Managed services shift the cost model from capital expenditure (CapEx) to operational expenditure (OpEx). Instead of investing heavily in infrastructure and personnel upfront, organizations pay a predictable monthly fee. MSPs continuously monitor and optimize resource utilization, preventing overspending on unnecessary infrastructure or services. Also, proactive management minimizes unplanned outages, maximizing the productivity of connected assets.
Inevitably almost all CPS/IoT systems will need to go through a technology refresh. Working with an MSP can help to extend it’s usable life, and give you expert advice on when it is time for an upgrade. The IoT and CPS landscape is constantly evolving with new devices, protocols, and technologies emerge regularly. MSPs stay abreast of these advancements, ensuring that their clients’ deployments remain current and compatible. MSPs can also help organizations adapt to changing business needs and technological advancements, ensuring that their IoT/CPS investments remain valuable over the long term.
The rise of managed services in the IoT and CPS space, particularly in areas like physical security and building automation, isn’t a fad; it’s a logical and necessary response to the increasing complexity and critical importance of these technologies. By partnering with a trusted MSP, organizations can unlock the full potential of their connected devices, drive innovation, enhance security, improve efficiency, and achieve a significant competitive advantage. The question is no longer if you should consider managed services for your IoT/CPS strategy, but when and with whom. Choosing the right partner will be key to navigating this exciting and ever-evolving landscape.
