Microsoft is promoting four security specializations to partners and customers. In a blog about the effort, Microsoft shared these details...
1. Threat Protection: The Threat Protection advanced specialization validates an MSSP's technical capabilities in partnering with customers to deploy Microsoft 365 or Azure Defender, Microsoft Cloud App Security or Azure Sentinel workloads. To earn the specialization, an MSSP with an active Microsoft gold Security competency must fulfill performance criteria, pass exams and certifications, provide validated customer references and meet other requirements.
2. Identity and Access Management (IAM): The IAM advanced specialization verifies an MSSP's technical capabilities in partnering with customers to evaluate and deliver Microsoft Identity workloads with Azure Active Directory. An MSSP must have an active Microsoft gold Cloud Platform competency and meet various requirements to earn the specialization.
3. Information Protection and Governance: The Information Protection and Governance advanced specialization confirms an MSSP's ability to deploy Microsoft Information Protection workloads and provide proactive information protection strategies.
4. Cloud Security: The Cloud Security advanced specialization validates an MSSP's capabilities and experience in the implementation of security solutions across customers' Azure, hybrid and multicloud environments.
MSSPs and IT pros an earn the aforementioned advanced specializations to highlight their security capabilities and expertise, Microsoft indicated. That way, they can make it easy for organizations to identify partners that are well-equipped to help them mitigate risk and comply with data and privacy requirements.
Microsoft updated its advanced specializations for security in October 2020. As the cyber threat landscape evolves, Microsoft could launch new advanced specializations to help MSSPs keep pace.
Also of note: The Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA) continues to open its arms to MSSPs (managed security services providers) and MDR (managed detection and Response) partners.
