Print in the Channel – Issue #34

SECURE MPS

CONTINUED

“For customers, the message is simple: intelligent automation is becoming essential to keep pace with faster, more sophisticated threats.” Ian adds that on the threat side, AI- based attacks raises the bar for basic security hygiene. “On the defensive side, AI is being used to analyse device behaviour, detect anomalies and support predictive maintenance and risk identification. The key is applying AI practically, as part of a broader security framework, rather than relying on it as a standalone solution.” Stuart notes that while AI isn’t creating new cyber threats, it is supercharging the threats that businesses are already facing. “It is lowering the barrier to entry and enabling criminals to launch more sophisticated attacks and operate at far greater scale than before,” he says. “On the other hand, AI is also supporting security teams when it comes to proactive vulnerability scanning and flagging, helping to isolate systems more quickly and improve device and system viability.” Way forward An increasingly popular way to keep MPS secure is through specialist MPS and cloud management security solutions. “In my view, there is no other viable path,” says Steve. “Managing a fleet manually is like trying to paint a moving train, you are always going to miss a spot. Moving to the cloud with Kyocera Cloud Print and Scan lets us implement a proper Zero Trust model. This means a document does not even exist in physical form until the user is standing right there, authenticating with their badge or phone.” Deyon adds that specialist MPS and cloud managed approaches allow security to be embedded across the full device lifecycle. “Centralised policy control, automated updates, encrypted workflows and secure print release can be applied consistently across office and remote environments, while reducing the

Contributors

burden on internal IT teams,” he explains. “When combined with modern hardware designed with security built in from the outset, this model is significantly more resilient than reactive or device by device management.” Ian says many new print devices now incorporate robust, built in security controls. “However, maintaining security and compliance across an entire fleet for the life of a contract can be a demanding task,” he says. “To address this, partners can add value by offering dedicated MPS security services. Leveraging our advanced fleet management toolsets, they can differentiate their offering and create new recurring revenue streams, providing customers with visibility, control and policy enforcement across distributed environments. These specialist solutions help reduce the attack surface, ensure consistent patching and configuration and support compliance and audit requirements. “As hybrid working continues, centralised management becomes essential rather than optional.” Kerry agrees that as organisations increasingly embrace hybrid and cloud- enabled operations, specialist MPS and integrated cloud management security solutions are a practical way forward. “These approaches help organisations centralise control over their print environments, improve accessibility for remote and on-site teams, and strengthen security, key needs in today’s connected

Deyon Antoine

toshibatec.co.uk

As hybrid working continues, centralised management becomes essential rather than optional. “ ”

Ian Fox