Posted by New Delhi: As cyber threats grow more complex, a vast majority of mid-sized businesses are increasingly turning to Managed Service Providers (MSPs) for cybersecurity support and to manage their security infrastructure, reveals the MSP Customer Insights Report 2025 released by cybersecurity firm Barracuda Networks.
The global study, conducted by market research firm Vanson Bourne for Barracuda, surveyed 2,000 IT and security decision-makers across the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The findings underscore how MSPs have evolved from being a resource primarily for small businesses to becoming essential security partners across companies with up to 2,000 employees.
According to the report, 73% of respondents globally and 76% of organisations in India already work with MSPs. In India, the number rises to 99% when including those evaluating or considering collaboration.
India prioritising MSP-led security
In India, where businesses face a rapidly evolving threat landscape, 53% of respondents said they want MSPs to help consolidate their fragmented security tools and vendors, while 58% seek guidance in choosing the right solutions. Nearly half (48%) rely on MSPs for 24/7 threat detection and response.
“These findings highlight the pivotal role MSPs play in helping customers navigate the complexities of modern cybersecurity,” said Brian Downey, VP of Product Management – Barracuda. “From addressing disconnected security tools to meeting high customer expectations for resilience and advanced support, MSPs face both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges.”
“MSPs are not just support partners anymore—they’re growth enablers and strategic security advisors,” said Brian Downey, VP of Product Management at Barracuda. “Our research shows that as customers expect deeper expertise and resilience from MSPs, there’s a massive opportunity for providers to elevate their offerings.”
Larger enterprises drive new demand
Traditionally seen as partners for small businesses, MSPs are now critical to larger enterprises. The report shows that 85% of companies with 1,000 to 2,000 employees rely on MSPs for cybersecurity support, outpacing smaller firms (61% of those with 50–100 employees).
Additionally, over 90% of global organisations indicated they would pay up to 25% more for advanced support and integration services from MSPs. However, expectations are high as 55% of Indian respondents said they would switch providers if the MSP failed to respond effectively to a cyber breach.
MSPs must prepare for an AI-powered future
Looking ahead, organisations will increasingly look to MSPs for capabilities in AI, machine learning, and zero-trust architecture, according to the report. The ability to manage complex environments with proactive intelligence will be a key differentiator.
Partner perspectives
Industry leaders echoed the findings, emphasizing the shift toward deeper, more co-managed relationships. “Today’s MSPs need to be more than just service providers; they need to be strategic partners, able to address customer demand for deep, multi-layered protection and provide both technical and business support,” said said Richard Flanders, Commercial Director – Aura Technology.
“The findings underscore the importance of AI and advanced security measures for both MSPs and their customers. MSPs need these capabilities to remain relevant and provide unparalleled value to clients. We are seeing ever larger organisations seeking the assistance of MSPs to help them with specific and complex IT security challenges,” said Roy de Bruijn, Commercial Director – Tredion.
(Image source – Barracuda Networks)