Over the past few years, hackers and other cyber-miscreants have managed to create a never-ending list of ways to attack both private and commercial networks and computer infrastructure. Their activities not only slow down systems and disrupt critical operations, but often lead to more serious crimes such as identity theft and corporate espionage. By all indications, the threats are multiplying and becoming much more difficult to neutralize or remove. Of course, those unknowns create more opportunities for channel professionals with the proper skills or who employ those with high-quality IT security capabilities.
With the continued advances in mobile technology platforms and cloud solutions, with their own unique vulnerabilities and complexities, the demand for those experts’ services is expected to grow significantly. According to the recently released CompTIA Information Security Trends report, 28 percent of business respondents confirmed that computer and network protection is a significantly higher priority today than it was two years ago, with 37 percent expecting security to become even more crucial over the next two years.
It’s easy for businesses to get a bit too comfortable with their information protection systems. A common misconception is that an occasional investment in IT security software will ensure their organization is properly secured, and will remain so for several years with minimal updates. But those with a true understanding of today’s risks know a proactive approach is the best way to lock down a business’ infrastructure and data. Most professionals acknowledge that no protection measures can possibly stop every threat, but they should be able to detect intrusion patterns and prevent all but the most determined hackers and malware schemes. There’s simply no 100 percent guarantee with information security.
While every business would love that assurance, the best providers can give them is a comprehensive and proactive protection solution with the ability to handle the latest threats and be adapted to stop future intrusions. Advanced persistent threats, denial of service and IPv6 attacks may be the most modern menaces to a client’s systems, but providers must also address traditional malware and hacking concerns. A simple firewall with antivirus protection just doesn’t cut it anymore, and overcoming the historical perceptions of IT security can be a real challenge, especially for VARs and MSPs with small business customers.
The CompTIA Security Trustmark was designed to identify solution providers who have what it takes to properly protect their commercial clients today – as well as tomorrow. This proven business credential is awarded to VARs and MSPs who adhere to best practices in personnel security, security training and infrastructure. Trustmark holders must observe specific industry standards and attest to their capabilities related to the latest protection measures and compliance concerns. Its framework has been agreed upon by key vendors, solution providers and end-users in the IT industry, and continues to receive the direction and support of the CompTIA IT Security Community. That collaborative team of IT security professionals is charged with updating and improving the Trustmark and its promotional programs over time, giving holders access to an ever-expanding portfolio of security-practice-related tools and educational resources.
For those looking to improve their professional status even further, the CompTIA Security Trustmark+ program adds a third party review to the process to validate the overall security posture of each applicant organization. In addition to the promotional advantages from receiving either of these credentials, holders will benefit from the guidance and support of industry peers –others with the skills and knowledge that can help them take their security practice to the next level.
Brian Sherman is founder of Tech Success Communications, specializing in editorial content and consulting for the IT channel. His previous roles include chief editor at Business Solutions magazine and senior director of industry alliances with Autotask. Contact Brian at Bsherman@techsuccesscommunications.com.
