Managed Service Providers (MSPs) face a growing challenge: becoming prime targets for cyber criminals. Their interconnected networks and numerous client endpoints present a rich attack surface. While firewalls and advanced threat detection systems are crucial, a significant vulnerability often remains: the human element. Attackers frequently exploit human error, social engineering, and lack of awareness to breach even the most fortified environments. This is why robust security awareness training isn’t just a recommendation for MSPs; it’s a critical component of a resilient cybersecurity strategy.

As we look ahead to 2026, the sophistication of these human-targeted attacks, like advanced phishing campaigns and vishing, will undoubtedly increase. Proactive and engaging training platforms are essential to empower employees – both within the MSP and across their client base – to recognize and resist these tactics. This article explores the top security awareness training platforms MSPs should consider to fortify their defenses in the coming years.

The Evolving Threat Landscape for MSPs

MSPs, by their very nature, manage sensitive data and critical infrastructure for multiple organizations. This central position makes them incredibly attractive to threat actors. A successful breach of an MSP can provide access to an entire downstream ecosystem of clients, amplifying the impact of an attack. Common attack vectors include:

• Phishing and Spear Phishing: Emails designed to trick employees into revealing credentials or installing malware remain a primary entry point. Threat actors often tailor these attacks specifically to the MSP’s context, making them harder to detect.
• Ransomware: MSPs are increasingly targeted by ransomware groups, who leverage access to client networks for maximum impact and extortion potential.
• Supply Chain Attacks: Breaching an MSP can be a strategic move to then attack their clients, creating a supply chain vulnerability.
• Insider Threats: While less common, negligent or malicious insiders can also pose significant risks, underscoring the need for continuous awareness.

Effective security awareness training helps mitigate these risks by transforming employees from potential targets into a strong line of defense. For instance, understanding the nuances of a sophisticated phishing attempt, like those leveraging MFA bypass techniques (e.g., sessions stolen post-authentication, not merely credentials), can prevent a catastrophic breach. Recent incidents, like the widespread exploitation of CVE-2023-28252, a privilege escalation vulnerability in the Windows Common Log File System Driver, highlight how even seemingly technical vulnerabilities can often be exploited after an initial human-driven breach.

Key Features of Effective Security Awareness Training Platforms

When evaluating security awareness training platforms for MSPs, several core features are non-negotiable:

• Comprehensive Content Library: Training modules should cover a broad spectrum of topics, from basic password hygiene and phishing identification to more advanced social engineering tactics, data privacy (e.g., GDPR, CCPA), and incident reporting procedures.
• Customization and Branding: MSPs often need to brand the training as their own or tailor it to specific client industries and compliance requirements.
• Phishing Simulation Capabilities: Realistic, customizable phishing tests are critical for
  practical application of learned knowledge and identifying high-risk individuals. These simulations should mimic current threat trends, including SMSishing and vishing.
• User-Friendly Interface: Both administrators and end-users need an intuitive platform for ease of use and higher engagement.
• Reporting and Analytics: MSPs require detailed reporting on user completion rates, simulated phishing success rates, and overall improvement to demonstrate ROI to clients.
• Integration Capabilities: Integration with existing identity and access management (IAM) systems or professional services automation (PSA) tools can streamline management.
• Gamification and Engagement: Features like leaderboards, points systems, and interactive modules can significantly boost user participation and knowledge retention.

7 Best Security Awareness Training Platforms for MSPs in 2026

Based on their capabilities, market presence, and suitability for the MSP model, here are some of the top platforms to consider:

1. KnowBe4

KnowBe4 remains a dominant player in the security awareness training space. Its vast library of interactive modules, extensive phishing simulation capabilities, and integrated risk management tools make it a compelling choice for MSPs. Their platform allows for extensive customization, enabling MSPs to craft tailored training programs for diverse client needs. They consistently update their content to reflect the latest threat landscape, including advanced social engineering tactics. For MSPs, the ability to manage multiple clients under a single console is a significant benefit.

2. Proofpoint Security Awareness Training (Wombat Security)

Proofpoint, through its acquisition of Wombat Security, offers a robust and research-backed training platform. Their approach emphasizes behavior change, utilizing adaptive learning paths and continuous assessment. This platform is particularly strong in its phishing and threat simulation modules, offering sophisticated scenarios that mirror real-world attacks. MSPs can leverage Proofpoint’s analytics to identify behavior trends and areas requiring further attention across their client base, helping to mitigate risks associated with vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-21379, a Windows Cloud Files Mini Filter Driver Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability.

3. SANS Security Awareness Training

Developed by the renowned SANS Institute, this platform provides high-quality, in-depth training modules. While often seen as more academically rigorous, SANS offers specialized content suitable for organizations requiring a deeper understanding of cybersecurity principles. Their training can be more intensive but highly effective for clients with sophisticated security requirements or those operating in highly regulated industries. MSPs can utilize SANS content to provide advanced training to their own technical staff and offer specialized modules to clients.

4. Cofense PhishMe (Formerly PhishMe)

Cofense is highly regarded for its advanced phishing detection and response tools, and their training platform—Cofense PhishMe—is no exception. It focuses heavily on conditioning users to recognize and report phishing attempts through continuous simulations and personalized learning. The platform’s emphasis on human-driven threat intelligence aligns well with the evolving nature of social engineering. For MSPs prioritizing immediate and ongoing threat intelligence combined with awareness, Cofense PhishMe offers a strong solution.

5. Curricula

Curricula distinguishes itself with a more engaging and story-driven approach to security awareness training. They utilize animated content and memorable characters to make learning about cybersecurity enjoyable and effective. This approach can be particularly beneficial for MSPs dealing with clients who have historically struggled with engagement in traditional training. Their platform includes tailored training, phishing simulations, and compliance reporting, all designed to make security awareness accessible.

6. ESET Protect Awareness Training

ESET, a long-standing player in endpoint security, now offers a comprehensive security awareness training platform. Integrated within their ESET PROTECT suite, it provides a streamlined experience for MSPs already using ESET products. The training covers essential cybersecurity topics, accompanied by phishing simulations and progress tracking. This integration can simplify management and reporting for MSPs, offering a unified security solution. Understanding client’s potential exposure to critical vulnerabilities, like CVE-2023-21768, a Microsoft SharePoint Server Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability, can be incorporated into tailored ESET training modules on reporting suspicious activities.

7. Hoxhunt

Hoxhunt takes a highly personalized and gamified approach to security awareness. It uses AI to adapt training content and phishing simulations based on individual user performance and risk profiles. This continuous, adaptive learning model ensures that users receive relevant and challenging content. For MSPs looking for a highly dynamic and individualized training experience that effectively measures and improves user resilience against targeted attacks, Hoxhunt is a strong contender.

Implementing Security Awareness Training for MSPs

Deploying a successful security awareness program as an MSP requires more than just choosing a platform. It involves a strategic approach:

• Client Buy-in: Clearly communicate the value and necessity of training to clients, emphasizing risk reduction and compliance benefits.
• Phased Rollout: Start with essential modules and gradually introduce more advanced topics.
• Regularity and Repetition: Cybersecurity awareness is not a one-time event. Implement continuous training, ideally monthly or quarterly, with frequent phishing simulations.
• Customization: Tailor content and simulations to reflect client-specific threats, industry regulations, and IT environments.
• Reporting and Feedback: Provide clients with regular reports on training completion, phishing simulation results, and overall security posture improvement.
• Incident Response Integration: Ensure training includes procedures for reporting suspicious activities, feeding directly into the client’s incident response plan.

Conclusion

For MSPs, the human element remains the most persistent and often exploited vulnerability in cybersecurity. Investing in a robust security awareness training platform is no longer optional; it’s a fundamental pillar of a comprehensive defense strategy for both the MSP and its clients. The platforms discussed—KnowBe4, Proofpoint, SANS, Cofense, Curricula, ESET, and Hoxhunt—each offer unique strengths but share the common goal of transforming employees into an active and intelligent defense layer. By carefully selecting and strategically implementing one of these solutions, MSPs can significantly enhance their resilience against the ever-evolving array of cyber threats, safeguarding their own operations and ensuring the continued trust of their clientele.