What Manufacturers Should Look for in a Managed IT Provider » CBIA
What Manufacturers Should Look for in a Managed IT Provider » CBIA
https://www.cbia.com/news/small-business/manufacturers-managed-it-provider-cybersecurity
Publish Date: 2026-05-11 10:17:00
Source Domain: www.cbia.com
The following article was provided by Whittlesey. It is reposted here with permission.
Manufacturing is now one of the top targets for cyberattacks, and this trend is picking up speed.
Recent IBM X-Force data shows that in 2025, nearly 28% of all cyberattacks hit the manufacturing sector, more than any other industry.
Ransomware, credential theft, and attacks on public-facing applications are the main threats.
Smaller manufacturers are also being targeted more often as attackers use automation and AI to go after businesses of all sizes.
At the same time, cyber insurance companies have made their requirements stricter, and compliance deadlines are now in effect for those in the defense supply chain.
Cybersecurity Threats Increase
The merging of IT and operational technology is also making the shop floor more vulnerable to attacks.
For many operations leaders, this change has happened quickly.
Cybersecurity is now a direct factor in keeping production running, maintaining customer trust, and meeting contract requirements—not just an IT issue.
Cybersecurity is now a direct factor in keeping production running.
This means your IT provider is no longer just a vendor.
They are a strategic partner whose skills directly impact your risk, insurance options, and ability to keep your operations running smoothly.
So, what should manufacturers look for? Here’s a practical guide.
Demand Consistent Ownership—Not Just a Ticket Queue
Many managed service providers send support requests to a general helpdesk.
This can work for simple problems, but manufacturing often involves complex interdependencies among IT systems, production equipment, and compliance requirements.
Choose a provider that takes consistent technical ownership of your environment.
Choose a provider that takes consistent technical ownership of your environment, either with a dedicated main engineer or a well-coordinated team that knows…
