SonicWall Appoints Cybersecurity Leader Michael Crean as GM to Enhance Managed Security Services

SonicWall's Transition to Managed Security Services

In a strategic move to enhance its offerings in the cybersecurity landscape, SonicWall has appointed Michael Crean as General Manager of its newly established Managed Security Services (MSS) division. With an established track record in the industry, including his role as the founder of award-winning MSSP Solutions Granted and his military background as a U.S. Army Combat Veteran, Crean is set to lead SonicWall's transformation into a comprehensive cybersecurity solution provider specifically designed for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs).

The Importance of Managed Security Services

As cyber threats grow increasingly complex and sophisticated, the demand for robust security solutions heightens. SonicWall recognizes that businesses today cannot rely solely on standalone security products; they need trusted partners that provide continuous monitoring and expert guidance on cybersecurity strategies. This is where SonicWall's focus on managed security services comes into play, signifying a shift towards integrated solutions that go beyond merely offering products.

Bob VanKirk, President and CEO of SonicWall, emphasized this strategic shift, stating, "Businesses require not just tools but a holistic approach to security delivered through partnerships. A dedicated 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC) is critical in today’s environment of pervasive threats. Managed security services will be foundational to our strategy, enabling MSPs and MSSPs to provide scalable, real-time security as a service."

SonicWall’s Managed Security Services Division

The newly formed division's offerings include SonicSentry™, which encompasses Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services tailored to endpoints, networks, and cloud environments. Backed by SonicWall's worldwide SOC infrastructure, these services leverage expertise to monitor, investigate, and address threats in real-time. Customers can expect a level of protection that integrates various aspects of their security environment, ensuring a comprehensive defense against emerging threats.

Michael Crean, aiming to redefine SonicWall's approach to cybersecurity, remarked, "If you think you know SonicWall, think again. We are now a partner-led organization ready to deliver essential solutions for MSPs. Managed security services are not just an add-on; they are central to our security framework."

SonicSentry’s Managed Extended Detection and Response (MXDR) solutions are particularly notable for their ability to provide integrated security visibility across diverse environments, whether on-premise or cloud-based. This extensive coverage enables partners to maintain security across third-party tools—including major platforms such as SentinelOne and CrowdStrike—further enhancing the value proposition of SonicWall's offerings.

A Path Toward Co-Managed Services

For organizations starting their managed security journey, SonicWall has introduced its Managed Protection Security Suite (MPSS). This cost-effective solution allows businesses to easily access comprehensive management services for their firewalls. The MPSS bundle focuses on best practices in configuration, offers continuous management from skilled professionals, and includes insights and reporting that partners can use to demonstrate value to their clients.

The MPSS also comes with SonicWall's exclusive $200,000 cyber warranty, ensuring that all managed devices are effectively protected against potential breaches. It acts as an essential step in relieving organizations from the burden of managing their security infrastructure, thus empowering them to focus on their core business operations.

Real-World Impact of SonicWall's Strategy

Early adopters of SonicWall's managed services like Napa Valley Networks, a California-based MSSP, exemplify the tangible benefits of this approach. After integrating SonicSentry into their security operations, Napa Valley Networks has reported a striking 60% decrease in phishing incidents and enhanced visibility across cloud environments. These capabilities have not only fortified their defenses but also improved operational efficiency.

Julie Neely, President of Napa Valley Networks, expressed the transformative impact of SonicWall’s solutions, stating, "SonicWall's SonicSentry equips us with the visibility, control, and scalability required to transition from a reactive to a proactive defense posture. This partnership has fundamentally altered our operational strategy."

Conclusion

SonicWall's commitment to expanding its managed security offerings under Michael Crean's leadership marks a significant evolution in its service delivery model. By fostering partnerships with MSPs and MSSPs, the company is poised to redefine the cybersecurity landscape, providing businesses with the comprehensive protection they need in an increasingly complex threat environment. For more details, visit SonicWall.