Dave Sobel discusses the evolving landscape of managed service providers (MSPs) and the increasing importance of cybersecurity and compliance. With a significant number of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) anticipating budget increases for the upcoming year, the focus is shifting towards treating cybersecurity as a business decision. Forrester's report emphasizes the need for investments in API and software supply chain security, as well as human risk management, highlighting the critical role these elements play in maintaining operational resilience and supporting revenue growth.
Sobel also highlights a recent report indicating that 71% of organizations plan to boost their IT budgets, particularly for Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions. Despite facing infrastructure challenges and a skills gap, many organizations are looking to outsource SASE management, with a notable reliance on external providers. The episode further discusses Oracle's impressive Q1 earnings report, which showcased a 45% surge in cloud infrastructure revenue and a partnership with Amazon Web Services, indicating a strong market position and growth potential.
The conversation then shifts to the emergence of next-gen MSPs, which are leveraging innovative client acquisition strategies and advanced technologies to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. These MSPs are focusing on AI and managed compliance services, fostering deeper collaborations with vendors to enhance their service offerings. Sobel underscores the necessity for traditional MSPs to adapt by embracing new technologies and engaging in co-selling partnerships to remain relevant in an evolving landscape.
Finally, the episode touches on significant developments in health technology, including Apple's recent FDA approvals for their AirPods Pro 2 and Apple Watch, which now feature capabilities for hearing assistance and sleep apnea detection. Additionally, Sobel provides an update on Microsoft's recent security event, which highlighted the need for improved collaboration among security vendors but ultimately resulted in a lack of concrete actions. The episode concludes with a reminder of the ongoing challenges in the cybersecurity space and the importance of proactive measures for MSPs to address these risks effectively.
Three things to know today
00:00 NextGen MSPs Leverage AI and Compliance Services to Stay Competitive, as CISOs Boost Cybersecurity Spending for 2025
04:44 OpenAI Surpasses 11 Million Subscribers as o1-Preview Models Highlight Growing Divide in AI Use Cases for MSPs
07:53 Apple Secures FDA Approvals for Health Tech While Microsoft Security Event Highlights Need for Better Collaboration
Supported by: https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/
CoreView Sept 19 Webinar: https://okt.to/CLa4Uf
💼 All Our Sponsors
Support the vendors who support the show:
👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/
🚀 Join Business of Tech Plus
Get exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.
👉 https://businessof.tech/plus
🎧 Subscribe to the Business of Tech
Want the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?
📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe
📰 Story Links & Sources
Looking for the links from today’s stories?
Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:
🎙 Want to Be a Guest?
Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:
💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech
🔗 Follow Business of Tech
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079
YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftech
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
[00:00:02] [SPEAKER_00]: It's Monday, September 16, 2024, and I'm Dave Solple, three things to note today.
[00:00:07] [SPEAKER_00]: Next-Gen MSPs leverage AI and compliance services to stay competitive, SISO's Boost Cybersecurity
[00:00:15] [SPEAKER_00]: Spending for Next-Dear.
[00:00:16] [SPEAKER_00]: Open AI surpasses 11 million subscribers as their O1 preview models highlight a growing
[00:00:23] [SPEAKER_00]: divide in AI use cases for managed services providers, and Apples secures FDA approvals
[00:00:29] [SPEAKER_00]: for the new health tech while Microsoft's security event highlights a need for better collaboration.
[00:00:36] [SPEAKER_00]: This is the Business of Tech.
[00:00:40] [SPEAKER_00]: Forester's budget priorities for SISO's for next year emphasizes the importance of
[00:00:45] [SPEAKER_00]: API and software supply chain security, urging investments in application security and human
[00:00:52] [SPEAKER_00]: risk management.
[00:00:53] [SPEAKER_00]: With 90% of SISO's expecting budget increases, the focus should be on treating cybersecurity
[00:00:59] [SPEAKER_00]: as a business decision, managing tech sprawl and enhancing cloud security.
[00:01:04] [SPEAKER_00]: The report highlights the need for robust safeguards against threats to software supply
[00:01:09] [SPEAKER_00]: chains and IoT devices, advocating for a pragmatic approach to cybersecurity spending that supports
[00:01:15] [SPEAKER_00]: revenue growth and operational resilience.
[00:01:18] [SPEAKER_00]: A recent report by open systems reveals that 71% of organizations plan to increase their
[00:01:24] [SPEAKER_00]: IT budgets next year, particularly for SASE related expenses or secure access service
[00:01:32] [SPEAKER_00]: edge.
[00:01:33] [SPEAKER_00]: Despite infrastructure issues and a skills gap, many organizations are allocating additional
[00:01:38] [SPEAKER_00]: funds for SISO implementation.
[00:01:41] [SPEAKER_00]: Many are also looking to outsource SASE management with 70% currently relying on external
[00:01:48] [SPEAKER_00]: providers.
[00:01:50] [SPEAKER_00]: Oracle's Q1 earnings report for 2025 showed better than expected results, with shares
[00:01:55] [SPEAKER_00]: jumping 13% after reporting earnings per share of $1.39 and revenue of $13.31 billion.
[00:02:04] [SPEAKER_00]: The company anticipates revenue growth of 8 to 10% for the next quarter, and has announced
[00:02:08] [SPEAKER_00]: a partnership with Amazon Web Services to provide database services.
[00:02:13] [SPEAKER_00]: Oracle's cloud infrastructure revenue surge 45% and plans to expand its data center operation
[00:02:19] [SPEAKER_00]: significantly were discussed.
[00:02:23] [SPEAKER_00]: The August Consumer Price Index shows that while inflation is largely controlled, housing
[00:02:27] [SPEAKER_00]: prices remain a significant concern, contributing to over 70% of the increase in core CPI.
[00:02:34] [SPEAKER_00]: An analysis of the MSP501 published by Channel Futures highlights the contrast of so-called
[00:02:42] [SPEAKER_00]: next-gen MSPs.
[00:02:44] [SPEAKER_00]: Next-gen MSPs distinguish themselves through innovative client acquisition strategies, prioritizing
[00:02:50] [SPEAKER_00]: webinars and industry events, and focusing on cutting edge vendor solutions and co-selling
[00:02:55] [SPEAKER_00]: partnerships.
[00:02:56] [SPEAKER_00]: Their growth is driven by advancements in AI and manage compliance services.
[00:03:01] [SPEAKER_00]: To maintain their competitive edge, they must foster deeper collaborations with vendors
[00:03:06] [SPEAKER_00]: and continuously innovate, ensuring a synergistic relationship that leverages shared strengths,
[00:03:12] [SPEAKER_00]: in technology, and market insights.
[00:03:15] [SPEAKER_00]: Why do we care?
[00:03:17] [SPEAKER_00]: A SAAC or secure access service-edge architecture combines networking and security as
[00:03:23] [SPEAKER_00]: a service function into a single cloud-delivered service at the network edge.
[00:03:28] [SPEAKER_00]: A figure you might need a definition, and don't feel bad, I did too.
[00:03:33] [SPEAKER_00]: Addressing the infrastructure challenges and skills gap with scalable managed services can
[00:03:38] [SPEAKER_00]: provide a clear value proposition here.
[00:03:41] [SPEAKER_00]: The analysis here underscores the need for traditional MSPs to evolve by embracing new technologies
[00:03:46] [SPEAKER_00]: and deeper collaboration with their vendors, engaging in co-selling and leveraging advanced
[00:03:51] [SPEAKER_00]: solutions can help maintain relevance in an evolving market.
[00:03:58] [SPEAKER_00]: With as many breaches and security concerns as I report in this show, it should be obvious
[00:04:03] [SPEAKER_00]: that cybersecurity is not just about technology, but also the human expertise needed to interpret
[00:04:09] [SPEAKER_00]: and respond to complex threats.
[00:04:12] [SPEAKER_00]: Huntress is focused on elevating SMBs and MSPs around the world.
[00:04:17] [SPEAKER_00]: Huntress has a suite of fully-managed cybersecurity solutions powered by a 24x7 human-led
[00:04:23] [SPEAKER_00]: stock dedicated to continuous monitoring, expert investigation and rapid response.
[00:04:29] [SPEAKER_00]: And the proof is the execution.
[00:04:31] [SPEAKER_00]: Huntress is the number one rated EDR for SMBs on G2.
[00:04:37] [SPEAKER_00]: Want to know more about the platform?
[00:04:39] [SPEAKER_00]: Visit huntress.com slash MSP radio to learn more.
[00:04:46] [SPEAKER_00]: Open AI has introduced the O1 preview series of reasoning models designed to tackle complex
[00:04:52] [SPEAKER_00]: problems in science, coding and math.
[00:04:55] [SPEAKER_00]: These models emphasize deeper reasoning before responding, achieving significant performance
[00:05:00] [SPEAKER_00]: improvements over previous models.
[00:05:03] [SPEAKER_00]: The O1 series includes enhanced safety measures and is particularly useful for complex
[00:05:08] [SPEAKER_00]: tasks.
[00:05:10] [SPEAKER_00]: Additionally, Open AI is releasing O1 Mini, a cost-effective model optimized for coding.
[00:05:16] [SPEAKER_00]: Access to these models is available to chat GBD plus and team users with plans for broader
[00:05:22] [SPEAKER_00]: access and feature enhancements in the future.
[00:05:25] [SPEAKER_00]: TechCrunch noted that while they excel at complex problem solving, they are significantly
[00:05:29] [SPEAKER_00]: more expensive and less effective for simpler tasks compared to GPT 40.
[00:05:35] [SPEAKER_00]: The model's multi-step reasoning is promising for tackling big questions but often over
[00:05:41] [SPEAKER_00]: complicates simpler in-for-ease.
[00:05:44] [SPEAKER_00]: One useful thing noted that while it's significantly improved reasoning, it still has limitations,
[00:05:50] [SPEAKER_00]: including errors and hallucinations, and relies on the underlying GPT 40 model.
[00:05:56] [SPEAKER_00]: And big technology did a deep dive.
[00:05:58] [SPEAKER_00]: I consider including it in big ideas later in the week, so let me quote directly.
[00:06:03] [SPEAKER_00]: Quote People who use AI for writing, editing, and marketing tasks will likely be disappointed,
[00:06:10] [SPEAKER_00]: but people they use it for coding, math, and science research will be thrilled.
[00:06:15] [SPEAKER_00]: An open AI's testing people who used O1 for writing actually preferred it less than GPT 40.
[00:06:23] [SPEAKER_00]: But those who used it from mathematical calculation, data analysis, and computer programming
[00:06:28] [SPEAKER_00]: preferred it by a wide margin and quote.
[00:06:32] [SPEAKER_00]: Open AI's chat GPT has surpassed 11 million paying subscribers generating over 225 million in
[00:06:40] [SPEAKER_00]: monthly revenue according to COO, Brad Lightcap.
[00:06:43] [SPEAKER_00]: This includes 10 million standard subscribers and 1 million on higher priced business plants,
[00:06:49] [SPEAKER_00]: with users employing the service for tasks like coding, writing, and research.
[00:06:55] [SPEAKER_00]: By do we care? There's a potential bifurcation of AI models here with an a single product line that's
[00:07:02] [SPEAKER_00]: already notable, and might even result in a split of MSP versus their customers.
[00:07:07] [SPEAKER_00]: Customers may want the primary model, and technically use cases for managed IT will use the reasoning model.
[00:07:13] [SPEAKER_00]: Of course, until they merge at some point the future or the product guides to the correct model.
[00:07:19] [SPEAKER_00]: Instead, I think that key insight is that my Somalia analogy remains strong,
[00:07:24] [SPEAKER_00]: like an expert recommending a wine with dinner, a solution provider matches product,
[00:07:30] [SPEAKER_00]: and a bedded model to a customer use case.
[00:07:33] [SPEAKER_00]: Example, the fact that O1 preview is less favored for tasks like writing and marketing,
[00:07:39] [SPEAKER_00]: but excels it coding and math aligns with the core services MSPs typically offer.
[00:07:43] [SPEAKER_00]: MSPs should assess whether it's worth deploying these models for costly or complex projects
[00:07:48] [SPEAKER_00]: versus sticking with the more general models for everyday operations.
[00:07:55] [SPEAKER_00]: And some updates on previously reported stories. The FDA has approved a software update
[00:08:01] [SPEAKER_00]: that will enable Apple's AirPods Pro 2 to function as over-the-counter hearing aids for individuals
[00:08:06] [SPEAKER_00]: with mild to moderate hearing loss. The future amplify specific sounds while reducing background
[00:08:13] [SPEAKER_00]: noise and adjust automatically based on a hearing test conducted through the Apple Health app.
[00:08:20] [SPEAKER_00]: The FDA has also approved sleep apnea detection for the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10,
[00:08:26] [SPEAKER_00]: and Watch Ultra 2, which were set to launch with Watch OS 11. This feature requires 10 nights of sleep
[00:08:33] [SPEAKER_00]: data over 30 days to assess risk, but it is not a diagnostic tool. So users should consult
[00:08:39] [SPEAKER_00]: healthcare providers. Apple follows other companies like Y things and Samsung and offering
[00:08:44] [SPEAKER_00]: this capability while blood oxygen detection has been disabled in the US due to a patent dispute.
[00:08:52] [SPEAKER_00]: I also want to update you on the previously mentioned Microsoft Security event, which happened last week.
[00:08:58] [SPEAKER_00]: The Microsoft Windows endpoint security ecosystem summit highlighted discussions among security
[00:09:03] [SPEAKER_00]: resulted in few concrete actions or agreements. While Microsoft shared its safe deployment
[00:09:10] [SPEAKER_00]: practices and discussed potential improvements in security collaboration, there was a lack of
[00:09:15] [SPEAKER_00]: cross-industry consensus on specific advancements. The company plans to invest in Windows
[00:09:21] [SPEAKER_00]: Security features address issues related to software updates and implement anti-tampering
[00:09:26] [SPEAKER_00]: protections. A Microsoft will host a special event today to announce the next phase of
[00:09:32] [SPEAKER_00]: copilot innovation. By the way, care? I previously mentioned the importance of Apple and health care,
[00:09:39] [SPEAKER_00]: and so it's important to highlight when they crossed the threshold from promise to reality
[00:09:43] [SPEAKER_00]: on FDA approvals as a quick side mode my doctor didn't even know of these things.
[00:09:50] [SPEAKER_00]: The lack of tangible actions of the Microsoft Windows endpoint security ecosystem summit indicates
[00:09:55] [SPEAKER_00]: a missed opportunity for stronger cross-industry collaboration. MSPs that provide security
[00:10:00] [SPEAKER_00]: services will need to continue filling the gaps as medical aberration isn't driving
[00:10:05] [SPEAKER_00]: major advances at this point. That's also continued to be a risk which providers have to absorb,
[00:10:11] [SPEAKER_00]: and so pushing vendors to take more responsibility particularly via assist secure by design
[00:10:16] [SPEAKER_00]: initiative remains imperative. Looking to reach an audience of thousands of MSPs and IT service
[00:10:25] [SPEAKER_00]: put your ad right here on the business of tech and be on the show that 64% of MSPs
[00:10:32] [SPEAKER_00]: report having listened to. A recurring top 50 tech news podcast there are affordable options
[00:10:39] [SPEAKER_00]: for you to reach our audience when we can support any budget. Podcast listeners are more engaged
[00:10:45] [SPEAKER_00]: have a higher level of brand retention and are more willing to listen to ads here than any other
[00:10:52] [SPEAKER_00]: avenues. Want to know more? There's information at MSPradio.com slash engage, including a button
[00:11:00] [SPEAKER_00]: to book a time to talk. I'm looking forward to that discussion.
[00:11:06] [SPEAKER_00]: Thanks for listening today. His national cinnamon raisin bread day and it's national step
[00:11:11] [SPEAKER_00]: family day. I have a number of step siblings. I'm very close to. That's what I wanted to do a shout out
[00:11:18] [SPEAKER_00]: I'm speaking out of webinar for core view this week entitled Differentiate Your MSP Business by
[00:11:24] [SPEAKER_00]: governing and securing M365. Join me on the 19th of September 10 a.m. Eastern with a link to
[00:11:31] [SPEAKER_00]: subscribe and register in the show notes. Have a question you want answered? I take those
[00:11:36] [SPEAKER_00]: list of questions send them in ideally as a voice member or video to question at MSPradio.com
[00:11:42] [SPEAKER_00]: and some list of questions live each week on our Wednesday live show on this week YouTube and
[00:11:47] [SPEAKER_00]: LinkedIn or EPME Easter. If you like the show, the number one thing you can do is make sure
[00:11:52] [SPEAKER_00]: your subscriber follow it in your favorite platform and share with a colleague. Talk to you again tomorrow.
[00:12:00] [SPEAKER_00]: The Business of Tech is written introduced by me Dave Solbel under ethics guidelines posted at businessof.tech.
[00:12:07] [SPEAKER_00]: If you like the content please make sure to hit that like button follow or subscribe
[00:12:12] [SPEAKER_00]: it's free and easy and the best way to support the show and help us grow. You can also check out our
[00:12:19] [SPEAKER_00]: Patreon where you can join the business of tech community at patreon.com slash MSPradio or buy our
[00:12:26] [SPEAKER_00]: Why do we care merch at businessof.tech. Finally if you're interested in advertising on the show,
[00:12:33] [SPEAKER_00]: visit MSPradio.com slash engage once again thanks for listening to me I'll talk to you again
[00:12:40] [SPEAKER_00]: on our next episode of the Business of Tech.

