Sophos has unveiled managed detection and response (MDR) and cloud security offerings and professional services automation (PSA) and remote monitoring and management (RMM) integrations for its MSP Connect partner program.
The moves further differentiate Sophos from numerous cybersecurity software companies. Indeed, Sophos typically designs its home-grown and acquired software with MSPs and MSSPs in mind -- building in multi-tenant partner and pricing features that many software rivals overlook during initial R&D. That Sophos commitment to purpose-built solutions accelerated under Scott Barlow, VP of global MSP at the company.
The latest example of that partner commitment involves MSP Connect, which now includes Flex options that enable MSPs to provide Sophos MTR threat hunting, detection and response services with flexible monthly billing, according to the company. In addition, MSPs can leverage MSP Connect Flex options for Cloud Optix, a solution that allows MSPs to automatically discover and secure customer assets stored in Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud.
Also, Sophos has expanded its MSP Connect integrations with Datto, Kaseya and ConnectWise Manage, the company stated. These integrations enable MSPs to automate data entry and invoicing.
A Closer Look at MSP Connect
MSP Connect helps MSPs deploy, manage and sell IT security services, along with increase their revenues and lower their operating costs, Sophos noted. It enables MSPs to leverage the Sophos Central security platform to help organizations identify and address security gaps.
MSP Connect supports more than 8,000 global and regional MSPs worldwide, Sophos indicated. Furthermore, MSP billings increased 83 percent in the first half of Sophos' fiscal year, resulting in annual recurring revenue of $33 million.
The Sophos partner strategy offer a stark contrast to portions of the MDR market -- which is filled with direct-to-end-customer or reseller-centric options. Many third-party offerings lack features for MSPs and MSSPs to easily manage and monetize on a recurring revenue model, MSSP Alert believes.
Thoma Bravo Acquiring Sophos
The MSP Connect enhancements come after private equity firm Thoma Bravo in October 2019 made an offer to acquire Sophos for approximately $3.9 billion. Sophos' board of directors stated their intention to unanimously recommend the offer to the company's shareholders, and the deal is expected to close soon.
Thoma Bravo has a strong track record in the MSP software market. The private equity firm owns and/or maintains equity stakes in Barracuda, ConnectWise and SolarWinds, among many others.
Sophos offers endpoint and network security solutions to help organizations keep pace with evolving cyberattacks. The company's security solutions are used by more than 400,000 organizations in over 150 countries.
Additional insights from Joe Panettieri.
