Industry guide

Managed IT Services for Manufacturing Companies

Manufacturing has become one of the most targeted industries for cyberattacks — and one of the most complex IT environments to manage. With the convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT), production floor systems, ERP platforms, and supply chain connectivity all require specialized managed IT expertise.

The OT/IT Convergence Challenge

Modern manufacturing facilities blend traditional IT (computers, servers, business applications) with operational technology (PLCs, SCADA systems, CNC machines, industrial IoT). Most generalist MSPs are not equipped to manage OT environments. A manufacturing-focused MSP understands how to secure and maintain both environments without disrupting production.

What Manufacturing MSPs Must Provide

• OT/IT Network Segmentation — Isolating production floor systems from corporate IT to prevent ransomware from crossing environments
• ERP System Support — SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Epicor, Infor, and other manufacturing ERP platforms
• Industrial IoT Security — Monitoring and securing connected production equipment
• CMMC Compliance — For defense contractors requiring Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification
• Uptime-First Support — Production downtime is measured in dollars per minute; your MSP must prioritize rapid response
• Remote Monitoring for Multi-Site Facilities — Managing IT across multiple plants or warehouses
• Supply Chain Security — Vendor access controls and third-party risk management

Ransomware & Manufacturing: A Critical Risk

Manufacturing is the #1 targeted industry for ransomware globally. Attackers know that production shutdowns cost manufacturers thousands to millions per hour, making them more likely to pay ransoms quickly. A manufacturing-focused MSP will implement network segmentation, immutable backups, and OT-specific monitoring to reduce this exposure.

CMMC: What Defense Contractors Need to Know

If your manufacturing company works with the Department of Defense (DoD), CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) compliance is mandatory. Your MSP must be familiar with NIST SP 800-171 controls and able to document your compliance posture. Non-compliant defense contractors risk losing contracts.