Silver iconStart Smart. Start Silver.

Stop searching for a silver bullet. Get the Silver Shield.

Everything you need to start transforming your MSP from “IT support” to trusted security advisor, with the certification, contracts, and conversation scripts to back it up.

Start Smart. Start Silver.

A practical three-phase roadmap for MSPs who want a clear, low-friction way to start the cybersecurity conversation, and build the authority to back it up.

Step 1: Activate
Step 1Activate

Get Started. Get Certified. Get Ahead.


Get Started. Get Certified. Get Ahead.

Certify your own MSP to Silver first. Build the workflow, adopt the Silver-aligned MSA, and go to your clients from a position of authority.

  • Your own Silver Certificate
  • Silver-aligned MSA ready to send
  • First-hand certification workflow
Step 2: Accelerate
Step 2Accelerate

Have the Risk Conversation. Win Outcomes.


Have the Risk Conversation. Win Outcomes.

Take the conversation to your clients, starting with the warm ones. Run a gap assessment, present graduated options, and sign your first pilot MSAs.

  • Gap assessment + 30-day uplift plan
  • Graduated client options (Silver / Exceptions / Bronze)
  • Reference customers
Step 3: Amplify
Step 3Amplify

Package Silver. Scale Delivery. Grow Margins.


Package Silver. Scale Delivery. Grow Margins.

Standardize your stack, operationalize your PSA, automate renewals, and build your path toward the GTIA Trustmark and ISO/IEC 27001.

  • Standardized stack + PSA client states
  • Automated annual recertification cycle
  • Maturity plan toward GTIA Trustmark
Start Smart, Start Silver Toolkit

Six core artifacts you can customize to Start Smart with Silver: Silver MSA, Exceptions Register, Risk Waiver, Bronze Outline, and more.

Conversation Playbook

Five-phase meeting script, ten objection handlers, and a same-day follow-up checklist.

The Roadmap Ahead

Silver certification level
SilverStart here

The smart, strategic first step to secure the base.

Gold certification level
Gold

A clear path to higher-value services as your clients' needs grow.

Platinum certification level
Platinum

Advanced security posture with deeper controls and evidence.

Diamond certification level
Diamond

Building toward the GTIA Trustmark or ISO/IEC 27001 as you mature.

Silver is where the professional standard begins. By starting here, you aren't just checking a box. You are installing the engine that will eventually carry you to Gold and beyond.

You will get the most value from this playbook if:

Precision over complexity
A starting point that is operationally realistic for your current headcount without sacrificing technical integrity.
Close the Liability Gap
Replace verbal assurances with a documented, defensible standard of care that protects both your business and your clients.
Authority in the boardroom
Move past "I think you're secure" to "We are meeting the SMB1001 standard", the posture of a true security partner.
Catalyst for your clients
As supply chains and insurers demand proof of security, be the frictionless solution that keeps clients compliant and competitive.

Disclaimer

This playbook, the accompanying appendices, and the template documents are provided by CyberCert Pty Ltd (CyberCert) for general guidance only and do not constitute legal advice. CyberCert is not a law firm and does not provide legal services. Before using any template documents or implementing strategies in this playbook, seek independent legal and professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances. You use this playbook and the templates at your own risk. CyberCert makes no representations or warranties about their suitability, completeness, or accuracy for your business. If you already have agreements in place with your clients, do not simply add these templates on top of existing arrangements. Doing so may create conflicting terms. These templates are drafted specifically for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) providing services to help small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) achieve and maintain Silver certification under the SMB1001 standard. They may not be appropriate for other services or certification levels. This playbook is intended for the exclusive use of Managed Service Providers (MSPs). No third party, including the MSP's clients, is entitled to rely on the contents of this playbook. CyberCert disclaims all liability to any third party who may be provided access to these documents. Any fee structures or premium rates suggested in this playbook are for illustrative purposes only. MSPs are solely responsible for ensuring their pricing and fee changes comply with local competition laws and existing contract terms. To the maximum extent permitted by law, CyberCert accepts no liability for any loss, damage, or expense arising from your use of or reliance on this playbook or any template documents.