Exclusive Networks and Palo Alto Networks launch Managed SOC as a Service in Southeast Asia

Building on their success in the EMEA region, Palo Alto Networks expands its collaboration with Exclusive Networks to Southeast Asia.

Exclusive Networks has partnered Palo Alto Networks to launch Managed SOC as a Service for businesses in Southeast Asia. With the region experiencing increasing challenges in cybersecurity, the threat intelligence solution is hoping to make a difference for businesses in the region, especially when it comes to managing their cybersecurity.

Recent research by Forrester Planning Guide revealed that over 70% of IT leaders globally planned to increase spending on Managed Security Services in 2024. In Southeast Asia, cybersecurity spending is also projected to experience tremendous growth in 2025, security services dominating the market.

Yet, businesses remain challenged in the area as cybercrimes become increasingly sophisticated. As such, cybersecurity has emerged as a top business priority for leaders across industries, from financial services and healthcare to manufacturing, retail and more.

The key challenges in cybersecurity remain the shortage in skilled cyber talent to meet the growing demand. Singapore faces a shortage of nearly 4,000 while Malaysia aims to fill 12,000 cybersecurity positions. 80% of organizations in the Philippines also report increased risks due to insufficient cybersecurity expertise.

Furthermore, the ASEAN region is experiencing a growing emphasis on data protection, digital sovereignty and more stringent compliance requirements, underscoring the urgency for robust security solutions.

The partnership will see Exclusive Network’s broad regional presence and on-the-ground local expertise combine Palo Alto Networks’ Managed Security Services to provide a tailored solution that meets the specific needs of each market, ensuring maximum return of investment for businesses and high returns for partners in the region.

The Managed SOC as a Service solution addresses the concerns organizations have in the region when it comes to building and operating their own SOCs. With the average SOC taking up to four years and requiring significant investments, the SME and SMB communities will struggle to focus on these, given their limited funds and talent.

Additionally, the complexities of integrating different technologies and operational models can risk brand dilution, inconsistent service delivery and weakened customer trust. These issues are also further elevated in highly digital markets like Singapore, where the increasing complexity of cyber threats and compliance requirements place significant pressure on IT teams.

The Managed SOC as a Service will be a comprehensive solution that enables SMEs with the necessary tools and expertise to navigate these challenges effectively, helping businesses scale securely without overburdening internal resources.

According to Andrew Assad, Senior Vice President of Asia-Pacific at Exclusive Networks, the solution addresses a critical need within the cybersecurity landscape, enabling industry players to become leading MSS Providers without the traditional barriers of time, investment, and expertise.

“With our broad network of local experts, organizations can effectively mitigate hiring and recruitment challenges amid the cybersecurity talent shortage, improve security processes without incurring significant costs, and optimize operational efficiency—particularly for businesses handling sensitive customer data or operating in industries with strict regulatory compliance requirements,” said Assad.

Lowering the barriers of entry

Under the Palo Alto Networks Partner-to-Partner (P2P) MSSP initiative, the solution is designed to drive business growth and strengthen customer relationships. Staffed by experienced analysts, partners leveraging Managed SOC can benefit from predictable costs, free from infrastructure and resource management burdens. The 24/7 managed security ensures continuous protection against cyber threats, creating more trust and peace of mind for their customers.

The service also features advanced Zero Trust-based protection, AI-driven threat detection combined with automation and orchestration for comprehensive cyberattack protection. The SOC team acts as an extension of both the customer’s IT department and the partner’s services organization, ensuring swift response to security incidents and continuous vigilance.

Partners also gain real-time dashboards, defined service level agreements (SLAs), training to reduce human errors, monthly reporting, and regulatory compliance support (GDPR, PCI-DSS, NIST).

“Building on our success in the EMEA region, we are excited to expand our collaboration with Exclusive Networks to Southeast Asia. The launch of Managed SOC as a Service will empower our partners with a full suite of managed security capabilities, enabling them to seamlessly transition into MSSPs, generate recurring revenue, and strengthen customer relationships by delivering comprehensive, real time cybersecurity solutions.” said Michelle Saw, Vice President, GTM Shared Services and Ecosystems, Asia Pacific and Japan at Palo Alto Networks.

Managed SOC as a Service also enables cybersecurity SMEs to confidently enter the MSSP market. Together, they can help businesses in other sectors achieve meaningful outcomes while ensuring a strong return on investment.

Partners will have a proven path for growth by delivering comprehensive, cost-effective security solutions that create value for customers with Managed SOC as a Service. With a robust portfolio of cybersecurity solutions from leading providers like Palo Alto Networks, Exclusive Networks empowers partners to seize new opportunities in the MSSP market while helping businesses mitigate risks and achieve full digital transformation.