Tech Data signs distribution partnership with Proofpoint

Distributor says the partnership is an “exceptional combination and excellent opportunity”

TechData has announced that it is partnering with Proofpoint to "take the company's cloud-based email security solutions and security awareness training services to a wider market".

It adds to TechData's "growing security solutions portfolio", the company says, while stating that it will be supporting both existing and new reseller partners and MSPs as it looks to expand the use of Proofpoint's solutions.

"With hybrid working dominating the agenda, organisations need to tighten control over email and user behaviour," Alison Nixon, business unit director - security, Tech Data, UK and Ireland, said.

"They need to keep a close eye on messaging and equip employees to spot the danger signs and take appropriate action.

"Ideally, the customer wants someone to take all that off their hands - and that's especially true of SMBs. With the expertise and support of our security team, and Proofpoint's solutions, MSPs can help their customers counter all potential email-borne cyber threats.

"It's an exceptional combination and an excellent opportunity."

Proofpoint was recently sold to private equity firm Thomas Bravo in a huge $12.3bn deal, with the cybersecurity company's CEO Gary Steele claiming the move would allow "greater flexibility to continue investing in innovation".

Tech Data says the services are "ideal for MSPs looking to address mid-market and SMB customers", adding that it will support partners addressing the SMB sector with "enablement, education, and marketing support, along with sales and technical expertise provided by its specialist security practice."

"Today, cybercriminals increasingly target employees within organisations rather than systems or infrastructure. This requires a mind shift from IT security teams to put people at the centre of their cybersecurity strategy to combat threats effectively," said Warwick Lawson-Syer, director channels sales for Proofpoint.

"Tech Data has a thriving security business practice and tremendous penetration of the SMB-focused reseller community.

"As such, it is ideally placed to reach out to more MSPs and resellers and support them in getting enabled while delivering first-class protection to address the needs of businesses facing a fast-evolving threat landscape."