Sophos, Pax8 Sign Strategic Partnership to Simplify Cybersecurity Management for MSPs

In a significant move to enhance cybersecurity efficiency for managed service providers (MSPs), global cybersecurity leader Sophos has announced a strategic partnership with Pax8, the premier cloud commerce marketplace.

This collaboration brings Sophos’ comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions to Pax8’s extensive network of over 40,000 MSPs, offering a one-stop shop for best-in-class security tools, including Sophos Managed Detection and Response (MDR), Sophos Endpoint powered by Intercept X, and Sophos Firewall.

The partnership aims to revolutionize how MSPs manage cybersecurity by streamlining operations, simplifying billing, and reducing the complexity of security management.

According to the Sophos MSP Perspectives 2024 report, MSPs that consolidate their security stack with a single vendor can reduce daily security management time by nearly 50%, with savings soaring to 69% for those managing six or more vendors.

By integrating Sophos’ solutions into the Pax8 Marketplace, MSPs can now access a unified platform that enhances operational efficiency and strengthens their security posture.

Empowering MSPs with Simplified Solutions

Joe Levy, CEO of Sophos, emphasized the alignment between the two companies: “Sophos and Pax8 share a mission to empower MSPs with end-to-end security services while simplifying lifecycle management and reducing operational overhead.

This partnership makes it easier than ever for MSPs to work with Sophos, ensuring they can defend against evolving threats with speed and innovation.”

Scott Chasin, CEO of Pax8, highlighted the importance of cloud-first, flexible solutions for MSPs: “Cybersecurity is a critical component of the modern IT stack. By bringing Sophos’ innovative offerings to our marketplace, we’re providing MSPs with enterprise-grade security solutions that simplify management, reduce risk, and drive profitability for their SMB customers.”

Key Benefits for MSPs

The partnership delivers several advantages to MSPs, including:

• Expanded Revenue Opportunities: Access to Sophos’ comprehensive security portfolio on the Pax8 Marketplace enables MSPs to offer a wider range of solutions to their clients.
• Reduced Operational Costs: Simplified procurement and billing processes free up billable hours and reduce overhead.
• Enhanced Support: Coordinated MSP enablement, support, and sales training initiatives ensure seamless integration and adoption.
• 24/7 Security for Microsoft Environments: Sophos’ MDR service for Microsoft Defender provides compatible, round-the-clock protection, enhancing the security of clients using Microsoft solutions.

Driving Efficiency with Sophos Central

Raja Patel, Chief Product Officer at Sophos, noted that MSPs can significantly cut daily management time by consolidating their cybersecurity operations on the Sophos Central platform. “By managing all their customers’ cybersecurity in the cloud, MSPs can reduce workloads and free up valuable time. Additionally, with Sophos’ complete portfolio, Pax8 MSPs can offer revenue-generating products and services tailored to their clients’ evolving needs,” Patel explained.

Proactive, AI-Driven Protection

Sophos’ solutions are backed by Sophos X-Ops, a global team of elite threat hunters and security analysts, providing real-time threat intelligence and AI-driven protection. As the leading pure-play cybersecurity provider of MDR services, Sophos safeguards over 28,000 organizations worldwide. Its automated threat detection, managed response, and deep security insights empower MSPs to deliver enterprise-grade protection while minimizing risk and reducing management complexity.

Strengthening Security for Microsoft Environments

With more than 60% of Sophos MDR’s customers managed via MSPs, Sophos has unparalleled insights into attacks on MSP-managed environments. These insights enable real-time updates to defenses, ensuring optimal protection against evolving threats. Additionally, Sophos’ MDR service for Microsoft environments allows Pax8 MSPs to enhance the security of clients using Microsoft Defender, maximizing the return on their Microsoft investments.

Flexible MDR Solutions for MSPs

Sophos’ MDR service through Pax8 offers flexibility for MSPs, whether they choose to fully outsource their managed services or augment in-house teams. The service includes critical coverage during nights and weekends, when attackers are most active. For MSPs providing in-house MDR, Sophos XDR’s new AI Assistant equips operators of all skill levels with frontline threat intelligence, enabling faster response times and improved threat neutralization.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in simplifying cybersecurity management for MSPs, enabling them to focus on delivering robust protection to their clients while driving business growth.