The 2025 SMB Cybersecurity Survey

Almost half of SMBs have faced a cyber incident; most aren’t prepared for the next. This report turns raw data into a clear picture of risk and highlights the value of MSPs.

Two pages of a digital SMB cybersecurity report titled 2025 State of SMB Cybersecurity Report by Guardz, featuring a futuristic shield graphic on the cover and charts and graphs from the latest 2025 survey on the inside pages.

Discover What 800 SMBs Reveal

Two documents titled 2025 State of SMB Cybersecurity Report by Guardz are shown. The cover features a glowing shield graphic, while the open page displays charts, graphs, and cybersecurity survey results from the 2025 survey.

Trusted by Leading Partners

SentinelOne
SuperOps
ATERA
V2 Version
Syncro
CONNECTWISE
pax8
Manage Protect
MULTIPOINT
RESILIUM.ai
Checkpoint
SentinelOne
SuperOps
ATERA
V2 Version
Syncro
CONNECTWISE
pax8
Manage Protect
MULTIPOINT
RESILIUM.ai
Checkpoint
SentinelOne
SuperOps
ATERA
V2 Version
Syncro
SentinelOne
SuperOps
ATERA
V2 Version
Syncro
CONNECTWISE
pax8
Manage Protect
MULTIPOINT
RESILIUM.ai
Checkpoint
CONNECTWISE
pax8
Manage Protect
MULTIPOINT
RESILIUM.ai
Checkpoint

Key findings at a glance

Almost 50% of SMBs have experienced a cybersecurity incident, meaning attacks are not a distant risk but an active reality.
These gaps show how exposed SMB environments really are.

A bar chart titled Identified Reasons for Weaknesses from the 2025 Survey highlights five reasons: Unapproved 3rd party apps (23%), lack of proper security policies (32%), outdated technologies (42%), targeted cyberattacks (43%), employee mistakes (45%).
Bar chart titled “Identified Reasons for Weaknesses” from the SMB Security Survey shows percentages: Unapproved 3rd party apps (23%), lack of security policies (32%), outdated technologies (42%), cybercriminal attacks (43%), employee mistakes (45%).

Most SMBs still lack structured protection

Only 34% have a formal incident response plan in place. The majority are still responding reactively.

Orange triangle with a white exclamation mark in the center, set against a light peach background. This icon typically represents a warning or alert, often seen in the context of SMB Cybersecurity or 2025 Survey results.

34% have a formal incident response plan

Orange triangle with a white exclamation mark in the center, set against a light peach background. This icon typically represents a warning or alert, often seen in the context of SMB Cybersecurity or 2025 Survey results.

28% rely on informal
processes

A pink warning triangle with an exclamation mark in the center, on a light pink background, highlights the importance of SMB Cybersecurity awareness.

15% have no plan at all

MSPs can close every major gap revealed in this survey

MSPs have a rare chance to reshape how cybersecurity is delivered, moving from ad hoc support to long term strategic partnership.

Three boxes: 1. Consolidated Technology Stacks with a checkmark and merging arrows icon. 2. Policy Development & Enforcement—perfect for SMB Cybersecurity—with a checkmark and settings gear icon. 3. Reveal Full Data in the Report in a shaded box.

Most SMBs still lack structured protection

Only 34% have a formal incident response plan in place.
The majority are still responding reactively.

have a formal incident response plan
0 %
An orange triangle with a white exclamation mark in the center, set against a light orange background, indicating an SMB cybersecurity warning or alert.
rely on informal processes
0 %
An orange triangle with a white exclamation mark in the center, set against a light orange background, indicating an SMB cybersecurity warning or alert.
have no plan at all
0 %
A pink triangle with a white exclamation mark inside, set against a light pink abstract background, represents a warning or alert—ideal for highlighting risks in an SMB Cybersecurity context or underscoring key points in your 2025 Survey.
Four panels from the 2025 Cybersecurity Survey highlight key actions: Policy Development & Enforcement, Consolidated Technology Stacks, Faster Detection & Resolution, and Employee Training & Awareness. Click Reveal Full Data In the Report below.

MSPs can close every major gap revealed in this survey

MSPs have a rare chance to reshape how cybersecurity is delivered, moving from ad hoc support to long term strategic partnership.

Conclusion

SMB cybersecurity today shows a clear gap between risk recognition and readiness. While SMBs are prioritizing protection, the rising complexity of threats makes internal management increasingly difficult. As a result, many are turning to MSPs for trusted guidance. With a platform like Guardz, MSPs are well positioned to strengthen defenses and build lasting resilience.

Experience The Power

Of Unified
Detection & Response

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