NIS2: Everyone’s talking about it, and the compliance deadline is right around the corner. If you’re reading this, you likely know that NIS2 compliance is a must. But what does this mean for the IT channel, and how exactly is Climb Channel Solutions stepping up to support your compliance goals?

The Network and Information Systems Directive 2 (NIS2) is shaking up cybersecurity regulations across the European Union. NIS2 enforces rigorous cybersecurity measures, guiding organisations to mitigate cyberattack risks and establish robust reporting and response protocols. The directive introduces new requirements in four key areas: risk management, corporate accountability, reporting obligations, and business continuity.

NIS2 also extends its scope beyond typical Critical Infrastructure providers to include, for example, channel partners operating as Managed Service Providers (MSPs) or Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) delivering services to EU customers. This is a double-edged sword for channel partners who must achieve compliance themselves while supporting their customers in doing the same. The skills and processes that you acquire in becoming compliant can, however, be leveraged to help your customers navigate their own paths to compliance and strengthen your value-add service.

Reliance on MSSPs is expected to increase, particularly among small and mid-sized businesses that lack in-house cybersecurity expertise. MSPs will not only deliver IT and security services but also handle compliance reporting.

Given the rise in supply chain attacks, where hackers target smaller organisations to breach larger ones, MSPs and MSSPs are critical points of focus. Their high level of access to customer IT infrastructures makes them prime targets, and a single compromised MSP could lead to multiple breaches. This underscores the importance of these service providers falling under NIS2 compliance.

So, for IT channel partners, this directive is a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. Customers falling under the scope of NIS2 will need significant help to meet its stringent requirements, spanning both governance and technical aspects. As channel partners, you also have a golden opportunity to step in as Trusted Advisors.

How can channel partners leverage this? And how is Climb Channel Solutions ready to back you up?

Navigating the NIS2 landscape requires dedicated support and the right technology. Thankfully, that winning combination is what we’re all about at Climb.

We are dedicated to empowering channel partners with the tools and expertise needed to achieve and maintain NIS2 compliance. To start, here are some of the technologies we provide that can help you meet your compliance objectives:

  1. Check Point Software: Check Point offers a comprehensive NIS2 Readiness Assessment. This involves a detailed gap analysis based on NIS2 controls, covering areas such as protective and detective technologies, risk management, threat vulnerability management, and IAM/encryption. Check Point’s dynamic security compliance solution and unified cybersecurity platform, which adhere to the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, also provide a strong foundation for compliance.
  2. Cato Networks: With Cato Networks Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform, organisations can improve the security and resilience of their network and information systems.
  3. Kiteworks: The Kiteworks Private Content Network can support your compliance objectives by standardising security and content management practices across email, file sharing, mobile, and more. Additionally, Kiteworks can provide detailed audit logs to investigate data breaches and demonstrate compliance.
  4. ManageEngine: Implementing the NIST Cybersecurity Framework is a solid foundation for complying with NIS2. ManageEngine provides tools and solutions to facilitate this implementation, including integrated risk management, incident response, and security monitoring solutions.
  5. LogicGate: With solutions for Regulatory Compliance Management, Operational Resilience, Third-Party Risk Management, and Cyber Risk Management, LogicGate helps streamline compliance processes. Their platform offers customisable workflows and automated compliance reporting, ensuring that all NIS2 requirements are met.

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Our team at Climb Channel Solutions is dedicated to supporting channel partners through the complexities of NIS2 and other compliance requirements. We believe this directive, despite its challenges, introduces a significant opportunity for channel partners to enhance their value proposition.

Channel partners must act now to leverage this opportunity, and the team at Climb is ready to help you. Get in touch with us today to discuss your compliance needs. Together we can support your customers both to contribute to a safer digital ecosystem and drive their own growth and success in an increasingly challenging and regulated landscape