Avant has launched an enhanced security practice and has chosen Stephen Semmelroth, previously with StrataCore, to lead the initiative.

Avant’s Stephen Semmelroth

The enhanced security practice aims to provide partners with reliable resources to keep them ahead of constant changes in security technology services.

Avant is launching a security task force with industry experts from around the channel. It will provide perspectives to ensure partners have the most up-to-date and impactful tools and resources.

Additionally, the practice will build on existing resources. Those include expert engineers, training and certifications, and a portfolio of more than 50 top security providers. Key providers include eSentire, Alert Logic, Cloudflare and more.

To date, more than 900 partners have completed the Avant security certification program.

Increasing Demand for Security Solutions

Avant president Drew Lydecker said demand for security solutions has increased dramatically during the last two years. A lot of that was driven by remote and hybrid work during the pandemic.

Avant Communications’ Drew Lydecker

“From recent examples of major cybersecurity attacks and the impact they’ve had on companies’ ability to operate successfully, companies realize that defending against attacks is a No. 1 priority to maintaining business continuity and to avoid slowing or completely pausing growth,” he said. “Our own security practice revenue at Avant increased 183% in 2021 over 2020. And we only expect demand to grow. With that comes many more solutions entering the space, which increases the need for companies to rely on trusted advisors to tailor solutions specific to their needs. We’re proud to be No. 1 in security, but want to continue to improve our offering and our support so trusted advisers can help keep companies protected.”

Business continuity is key to maintaining a competitive advantage, Lydecker said. That’s especially true in the increasingly competitive tech solutions space.

“Protecting your house and avoiding slowdowns or pauses due to cybersecurity attacks means that partners can refocus time and energy towards innovation, improving sales, attracting and retaining top talent, and all the other keys to business success, with the peace of mind that their systems are secure,” he said. “With the expertise of our trusted advisors and the resources to help design the very best security solution plan, companies are provided with a foundation to compete and improve their success.”

Already No. 1 in Security

Semmelroth said Avant already has the No. 1 security practice within the channel.

“And I’m committed to continually scaling our practice to help our trusted advisors simplify complex and multi-faceted security discussions,” he said. “With the support of our experienced security engineers, trusted advisors will have access to a deep security knowledge base that will help them develop dynamic plans to better guide their customers.”