Welcome to our 2025 recap of SkyKick’s recent interview with Martijn Kregting of the Dutch IT Channel. Varshaa Pallaath, Director of Product Marketing, shared his perspective on the transformative changes shaping the IT channel in 2025. The conversation explored SkyKick’s acquisition by ConnectWise®, new product innovations, and how managed service providers (MSPs) can leverage these advancements to deliver unmatched value to their customers.
Follow along as we review key takeaways from the discussion, offering insights into the longer-term data protection vision and the evolving opportunities for MSPs.
Joining forces with ConnectWise
Martijn: Tell me about what’s new with SkyKick?
Varshaa: In September, SkyKick and Axcient were acquired by ConnectWise. Axcient specializes in advanced business continuity and disaster recovery solutions, which are designed to help MSPs support their customers during critical events such as natural disasters or ransomware attacks. ConnectWise is a leading technology company dedicated to empowering IT service providers (TSPs) with unmatched software, services, and community to achieve their most ambitious version of success. SkyKick, which has spent more than a decade helping partners succeed in the cloud, shares this mission.
By joining forces with ConnectWise, both companies are combining their expertise and resources to deliver even more value to MSPs with data protection that is built for partners. Over the past few months, we’ve worked seamlessly together, further strengthening our shared commitment to partner success.
Driving success through new innovations
Martijn: What innovations have come out of this partnership? What does this mean for the industry?
Varshaa: Since the acquisition, we’ve been hard at work delivering on the needs of MSPs, including these key updates:
- We have released advanced recovery capabilities for Microsoft 365 data protection, enabling faster data restoration
- Axcient™, a ConnectWise company, has released public APIs to provide more integration and transparency
- These advancements are now centralized in ConnectWise Backup360™, providing a single pane of glass that simplifies data protection management for MSPs
What has been most promising are the partner stories. For instance, one MSP shared how they used ConnectWise Cloud Backup™ (formerly SkyKick Cloud Backup) to help an accounting firm recover over 100GB of critical data in just hours after a malicious deletion. Another partner ensured an energy company stayed operational during a hurricane, seamlessly handling disaster recovery with Axcient x360Recover. These real-world successes highlight the tangible impact of these innovations on MSP operations. Read the case study.
Key trends for MSPs in 2025
Martijn: What trends will shape the MSP landscape in 2025?
Varshaa: Three key trends are set to impact MSPs and their customers in 2025.
First, NIS2 fragmentation will require MSPs to assess their IT supply chains as EU countries implement the directive at different stages. We have already adhered to NIS2 since September, offering partners peace of mind.
Second, AI acceleration will drive innovation with advancements like large language models and tools such as Microsoft's new SharePoint agents. MSPs must ensure data protection to support AI-readiness discussions, especially during Q1 renewals.
Finally, zero trust is gaining relevance in SMBs, creating challenges for MSPs as access to customer environments becomes more restricted. We’re addressing this with delegated authentication features to simplify secure management.
To navigate all trends, MSPs can leverage the first built-for-MSP platform, ConnectWise Asio®, which streamlines operations and drive profitability.
Discover More
It’s looking to be a phenomenal year with 45% of CSP renewals taking place for MSPs between January and March. Don’t let complacency lead to customer disengagement or open the door to competitors. With our Renewal Guide and To-Customer Campaign Assets, you’ll stay ahead and highlight key priorities like data protection to win customer trust and loyalty.
