Security-focused MSPs rethink cyber risk, AI and growth

September 10, 2026

Photo by Anjali Fluker in Alexandria, VA 9/2/2026

Cybersecurity has long represented both a business risk and a revenue opportunity for MSPs. The stakes are rising due to AI-powered threats, expanding compliance requirements and rising client expectations.

At the ChannelPro DEFEND: Alexandria conference, MSPs, MSSPs and other channel professionals explored how to adapt to the evolving environment. Sessions focused on identity security, incident response, automation, profitability and the legal implications of AI.

Some key takeaways for MSPs:

Build security stacks around client needs and business outcomes, not vendor hype.
Turn threat intelligence into clear actions that clients can understand.
Strengthen internal processes before using AI to automate workflows.
Address AI-related risks in contracts before problems arise.
Find margin drains by examining bloated tool stacks and inefficient service delivery.
Treat other MSPs as potential collaborators rather than just competitors.

The two-day event also underscored the value of candid peer conversations. MSP leaders shared lessons from their own businesses. Meanwhile, vendors gained a clearer view of the operational pressures their partners face.

Source: The ChannelPro Network

Anjali Fluker

Anjali Fluker is managing editor of The ChannelPro Network. She has nearly three decades of journalism experience, the majority in B2B publications. She has covered beats including sports, local government, real estate, restaurants, transportation and business leadership. As managing editor, she helps shape editorial strategy and coverage focused on helping MSPs and solution providers navigate growth, risk and change. When she’s not reporting on the latest in managed services, she’s connecting with channel pros at industry events across the country.
Anjali regularly serves as moderator and occasional host for ChannelPro events, guiding practical conversations with industry leaders across the IT channel. Known for her clarity, credibility and collaborative approach, she brings real‑world insight and editorial rigor to the page and the stage.