IT procurement is rapidly shifting towards a services-led model in the channel, as highlighted by the annual CRN Managed Service Provider 500 list. This comprehensive list showcases the top managed service providers leading the way in the industry.
The demand for managed services continues to grow, with businesses and organizations turning to MSPs and managed security service providers to meet their IT needs. This trend is driven by a desire to reduce capital spending, accelerate business transformation initiatives, and address the shortage of skilled IT workers.
Access to cutting-edge information technologies is a key driver of managed services adoption, particularly with the rise of AI products and services in the IT industry. SMBs, in particular, are looking to MSPs to provide AI solutions without the complexity typically associated with these technologies.
According to a report from MarketsandMarkets, the global managed services market is projected to reach $511.03 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 6.9 percent. This includes various services such as managed IT infrastructure, data center services, network services, security services, communications and collaboration services, mobility services, and information management.
CRN has released the 2025 Managed Service Provider 500 list, which recognizes North American MSPs and MSSPs for their innovation and growth. MSP executives shared insights on their businesses and outlook for 2025, including significant changes made in the past year, emerging technology opportunities, challenges faced by their MSP business, and opportunities in GenAI.
The MSP 500 list is divided into three categories: MSP Elite 150, MSP Pioneer 250, and Managed Security 100. These categories highlight MSPs with diverse managed services portfolios catering to different customer segments, from midmarket and enterprise clients to SMB customers, as well as those specializing in cloud-based security services.