Why IT and Cybersecurity Are Not the Same

And Why That Matters

Cybersecurity is becoming an increasingly attractive field, drawing professionals from various IT backgrounds. This is great—more skilled people mean better defenses against cybercriminals. However, a concerning trend is emerging: IT Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are branding themselves as cybersecurity experts overnight.

The Difference Between IT and Cybersecurity

At a fundamental level:

IT professionals ensure that the lights stay on, keeping systems running smoothly.
Cybersecurity professionals ensure that the lights don’t go off, protecting those systems from threats.

While there is overlap, cybersecurity is not just about installing anti-malware software or setting up backups. It involves:

Understanding frameworks like NIST and CIS controls
Conducting risk assessments and security audits
Implementing data security, compliance, and governance
Proactively defending against evolving cyber threats

The Risk of IT Doing Cybersecurity

When IT teams take on cybersecurity without the right expertise:

It creates blind spots – Without deep cybersecurity knowledge, IT teams may overlook critical risks.
It’s a conflict of interest – Cybersecurity professionals often audit IT operations to identify vulnerabilities. When IT is also responsible for security, it can lead to unchecked risks.
It weakens defenses – Cybercriminals take advantage of weak cybersecurity implementations, and incomplete security solutions create an illusion of protection rather than actual security.

The Right Approach: Partnering with Experts

Rather than treating cybersecurity as an add-on service, IT MSPs should collaborate with dedicated cybersecurity professionals who have spent years mastering security principles. This ensures stronger defenses and better protection for clients.

If your organization provides IT services and is looking to expand into cybersecurity, consider investing in proper training, certifications, and partnerships with cybersecurity specialists. A strong, knowledgeable cybersecurity strategy doesn’t just protect businesses—it makes it harder for criminals to succeed.