Let’s ponder some big ideas.
A recent report by Zscaler, commissioned by Cybersecurity Insiders, reveals that security and compliance risks are turning virtual private networks, or VPNs, into liabilities for companies. The survey of over six hundred IT and security professionals found that 56 percent view maintaining security as the top challenge with VPNs. Alarmingly, ninety-two percent are concerned that vulnerabilities in these systems could lead to ransomware attacks, prompting sixty-five percent of organizations to plan to replace their VPNs within the year. The report highlights that traditional VPNs expose sensitive data and hinder operational efficiency, with seventy-three percent of respondents citing significant concerns about their effectiveness against evolving cyber threats. As a result, eighty-one percent plan to adopt a Zero Trust strategy, which aims to enhance security by minimizing access and verifying users continuously.
Agentic artificial intelligence is transforming business decision-making by enabling autonomous AI agents to make choices without human oversight. According to the trade publication Supply Chain Brain, by 2028, one-third of enterprise software is expected to incorporate this technology, influencing fifteen percent of daily workflow decisions. Statista has predicted that the Agentic AI market value could surpass forty-seven billion dollars by 2030. This innovation is particularly relevant in sectors like the auto industry, which faced significant challenges during the semiconductor shortage, leading to a two-hundred billion dollar loss in revenue. Agentic AI can help companies anticipate demand and streamline supply chain management, enhancing productivity and profitability. Additionally, advancements in natural language processing are allowing chatbots to provide customer service experiences that rival human interactions. As more businesses recognize the potential of Agentic AI, the global Software as a Service market is projected to grow from three hundred seventeen billion dollars to over one trillion dollars by 2032, reflecting a shift toward flexible AI solutions.
In a recent article from ChannelE2E, experts emphasize the importance of security and compliance as managed service providers adopt artificial intelligence. With AI promising greater operational efficiencies, MSPs must first address critical challenges including data sovereignty, model ownership, and access controls. The article highlights that traditional on-premises infrastructures are evolving into complex hybrid solutions, increasing the need for robust frameworks. MSPs are advised to conduct thorough data inventories and develop multi-tiered architectures for different levels of data isolation. Furthermore, compliance considerations are particularly crucial for MSPs serving regulated industries like healthcare and finance, requiring them to navigate regulations effectively.
Why do we care?
This trio of stories reveals a deeper truth: the foundations of IT service delivery are undergoing a structural shift, and MSPs need to reposition themselves—not just react—to remain relevant.
Here are your questions to ponder.
- What outdated technologies – not just security ones – should you help customers abandon?
- Are you ready with accountability frameworks for you and for your customers for AI? Listen to the live show dropping tomorrow for more insights here.
- Are you and your customers ready with your data to take advantage of AI… and are you selling solutions to address this?