Australian MSPs see AI as a key opportunity

More than nine in 10 (92.5%) managed service providers and managed security service providers expect AI-led security and threat intelligence to be the major drivers of business growth over the next 12 months, research suggests.

The findings of a survey published by OpenText found that over 75% of respondents already offer AI-related security services in Australia. Of those not currently doing so, 72% plan to offer such services in the next 12 months. More than three-quarters of respondents from Australia have seen an increase in business driven by interest in AI security tools and expertise.

Incorporating AI into security is a major business opportunity for the sector, with 36% of respondents naming this the biggest challenge they are helping their customers solve. The top expected benefit of incorporating generative or other AI into customers' security programs is the ability to more easily find vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, the research suggests.

But even with the AI buzz, comprehensive security and composable on-demand security expertise remain the top reasons enterprise and SMB customers seek managed services and managed security services, according to OpenText Cybersecurity EVP Prentiss Donohue.

"Amid the growing excitement and interest in AI technologies, it's crucial not to overlook the foundational need for composable security, which provides the ability to adapt to changing security needs," he said. "MSPs and MSSPs play a critical role in safeguarding their customers' sensitive data. As cyber threats escalate, our partners are prioritising security and integrating AI-powered threat intelligence services into their offerings. This ensures our end customers can reap the benefits of AI technology without compromising security."

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