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Security Should Be Your Priority: Why Partners Need to Join Mission 65
As I stood before our partners a few weeks ago at Microsoft’s latest security event, one thing became crystal clear: while AI might be stealing the headlines, security remains a critical challenge that isn’t going away. In fact, it’s becoming more urgent than ever.
Let me be frank – we’re seeing businesses of all sizes being targeted by hackers on a weekly basis. Too many customers still cling to the “it won’t happen to me” mentality, thinking cybercriminals will target their neighbors instead. But here’s the hard truth: in today’s landscape, it’s not a question of if you’ll be targeted, but when.
Building a Robust Security Framework
The good news? Microsoft’s comprehensive security framework gives us the tools to make life extremely difficult for potential attackers. Starting with Microsoft Business Premium as the foundation, we can implement a zero-trust approach that covers all critical areas:
– Identity and access management
– Endpoint protection across all devices (Windows, Android, iOS)
– Enterprise application security (both on-premise and cloud-based)
– Network access controls and VPN conditional access
– Data protection through governance and compliance tools
What makes this approach particularly effective is how these elements work together, wrapped in powerful tools like Defender 365 and Defender for Endpoint.
The Critical Role of Identity and Device Management
One principle I can’t stress enough: only trusted devices should connect to resources, period. Even if MFA is compromised, proper device management and conditional access policies are your last line of defense. These policies should evaluate:
– Sign-in risk
– User risk
– Device health
– Compliance status
Taking Action: Your Next Steps
As your Modern Work and Security Sales Lead, I’m passionate about helping partners build robust security offerings. Here’s what I’m asking you to consider:
1. If you haven’t built a security offering with Business Premium at its core, let’s talk. We have the guidance and experience to help you get there quickly and effectively.
2. Join our Mission 65 initiative and take the Mission 65 Pledge. This community movement is gaining momentum, and we need more partners to take the pledge and commit to improving their Microsoft Security score. It’s not just about numbers – it’s about creating a stronger security ecosystem for all our customers.
3. Use our resources. Our security page is packed with valuable information to help you build and sell your security offerings effectively.
Remember, there’s no shortcut to implementing this technology properly. But with the right approach and commitment, we can help our customers build truly resilient security postures.
Ready to take the next step? Reach out to discuss how you can join Mission 65 and be part of this crucial security initiative. Your customers’ security – and your business growth – depend on it.
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Guido Marchetti is the Modern Work and Security Channel Lead at MicroWarehouse, helping partners build and deliver comprehensive security solutions to their customers.
MicroWarehouse Mission 65 is a strategic security initiative designed to elevate partner cybersecurity capabilities and client protection through a comprehensive, collaborative approach. This innovative program challenges technology partners to advance their own and their clients security posture by achieving and maintaining a Microsoft Secure Score of 65 or higher, representing a robust standard of digital defence.
At its core, Mission 65 is a transformative partnership framework that empowers technology service providers to implement cutting-edge security strategies. By leveraging Microsoft 365 Business Premium (E3 or E5) and embracing Zero Trust principles, partners commit to a proactive, holistic approach to cybersecurity that goes beyond traditional defensive measures.
The initiative focuses on five key pillars: adopting Zero Trust security architectures, developing comprehensive security solutions built around Microsoft Security Suite (adding what you need), continuous performance improvement measuring yourself against secure score and that average target of 65%, collaborative knowledge sharing, and maintaining a client-centric security philosophy. Partners who join Mission 65 demonstrate a profound commitment to protecting digital assets, mitigating evolving cyber risks, and delivering exceptional value to their clients.
Through this program, MicroWarehouse aims to create a network of security-focused partners who not only protect their clients but also drive industry-wide security standards and best practices. Mission 65 represents more than a challenge—it’s a movement towards more resilient, intelligent, and trustworthy digital ecosystems for our clients and the island of Ireland.
Take the MicroWarehouse Mission 65 Pledge today and become a cyber security leader.