Managed Service Providers (MSPs) operate in an industry that is constantly changing, and few shifts have been as dramatic as the evolving regulatory landscape in the United States. Laws around data privacy, cybersecurity, and compliance are growing increasingly stringent, requiring MSPs to adapt quickly or risk falling behind. But what do these changes mean for your business, and how can you prepare for them?
This blog explores the key regulatory changes affecting MSPs, the challenges they bring, and actionable strategies to ensure compliance while maintaining a competitive edge. If you’re ready to future-proof your MSP business, keep reading.
Staying on top of compliance is crucial for MSPs, and the last few years have brought a host of new changes that all service providers need to be aware of. These regulations are designed to improve the security and reliability of IT services, yet they undoubtedly come with their own set of complexities.
The CCPA requires businesses operating in California to provide consumers with the right to know what data is collected about them, request its deletion, and opt out of its sale. For MSPs, this means ensuring that clients' data handling processes align with these strict guidelines. Non-compliance can lead to significant fines or lawsuits.
While primarily a European regulation, the GDPR impacts MSPs with clients in the EU. It governs how data is stored, transferred, and protected, reinforcing the importance of robust data security measures.
MSPs are increasingly expected to adhere to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) cybersecurity framework. This set of industry standards helps businesses manage and reduce cybersecurity risks, but implementing it can be complex and resource-intensive.
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is mandatory for MSPs managing contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense. This regulation involves multi-level certification, designed to protect sensitive information across the supply chain.
These regulations emphasize the importance of having secure systems and practices in place, but compliance comes with its own hurdles.
Complying with these regulations isn’t as straightforward as checking off a to-do list. Here are the hurdles MSPs commonly encounter when navigating regulatory changes:
Staying compliant doesn’t come cheap. Meeting data privacy and cybersecurity requirements often requires investing in new technologies, hiring specialized personnel, and training current team members.
Regulations are often written with legal and technical jargon, making them difficult to interpret and implement without expert help. Many MSPs waste time trying to decode the rules rather than putting systems in place.
Technology moves fast, and so do regulatory updates. Keeping up with new guidelines requires an ongoing effort, leaving little room for error.
Clients trust MSPs to guide them through compliance. However, failure to meet regulatory requirements for your clients can damage relationships and put your reputation at risk.
While these challenges may seem daunting, there are strategies to overcome them.
Here’s how MSPs can effectively adapt to the new regulatory landscape and turn compliance into an opportunity for growth.
Start by auditing your current compliance practices. Identify gaps in your operations and prioritize the regulations most relevant to your clients' industries. This is the foundation for a proactive compliance strategy.
Equip your team with the knowledge to address compliance requirements confidently. Regular training ensures that everyone is up to date on data privacy laws and cybersecurity frameworks.
Automation can simplify many aspects of compliance, from monitoring data activity to maintaining audit trails. Tools like ConnectWise Manage or BrightGauge Analytics allow MSPs to track key metrics while staying compliant.
Don’t go it alone. Consulting with a trusted partner like Bering McKinley can streamline the compliance process. Their experts specialize in navigating regulations to ensure MSPs meet industry standards without unnecessary stress.
Be transparent with your clients about what you’re doing to meet compliance requirements. Demonstrating your commitment to regulatory standards builds trust and positions your business as a reliable partner.
Regulatory compliance doesn’t have to be a liability. With the right strategies, MSPs can leverage it as a competitive advantage.
What does the future hold for MSP regulations? While no crystal ball exists, certain trends are already emerging, including:
The rise of AI-powered tools means stricter guidelines around how data is processed and analyzed. MSPs will need to ensure that AI systems meet ethical and legal standards.
We’re likely to see more universal standards emerge, similar to the GDPR, affecting how businesses handle data across borders.
Governments and organizations are moving toward zero trust architectures, requiring MSPs to adopt even more robust cybersecurity measures.
Staying ahead of these trends will require consistent monitoring, adaptability, and a willingness to invest in cutting-edge solutions.
The regulatory landscape for MSPs is complex, but it’s also an opportunity to differentiate your business. By staying compliant, you don’t just meet legal requirements—you improve your systems, gain client trust, and position yourself as a reliable, future-ready provider.
At Bering McKinley, we specialize in helping MSPs thrive amidst change. Our team of consultants provides personalized strategies, from compliance management to sales process optimization, ensuring your business reaches its full potential.