The ChannelPro Network Advertise

In-Person Event

November 9 - 10, 2026 | Anaheim, California

2026 ChannelPro DEFEND: Anaheim

Hotel Fera Anaheim

2026 ChannelPro DEFEND: Anaheim

Ready to reach your next million in cybersecurity revenue? ChannelPro DEFEND is the two-day security event you can’t afford to miss. Built for MSPs, MSSPs, and other IT channel partners, this in-person experience features business-building strategies and threat landscape intel you won’t find anywhere else.

NEW in 2026! Our Day 1 DEFEND Cybersecurity Workshop provides a fully curated journey through four focused tracks: Risk Mitigation, Cybersecurity Response, Business Growth, and Cutting-Edge Tools.

These interactive courses, designed by industry experts and successful MSPs, deliver the secrets to building an IT business that lasts. Plus, you’ll connect with the channel’s top vendors, see exclusive product demos, meet new referral partners, and have a ton of fun.

100% free for qualified channel partners, ChannelPro DEFEND: Anaheim will feature insights from the IT Channel’s leading practitioners and renowned strategists. Join us to learn:

Actionable strategies for selling cybersecurity solutions
Critical tips on preventing catastrophic data breaches
Insight into the latest AI-powered tech to strengthen your security posture
Best practices and tactics for positioning your business as a trusted security partner

Join your fellow IT providers from throughout the region to network. It’s also a golden opportunity to meet the industry’s most innovative vendors, discover new cybersecurity tools, and strike deals that fuel growth.

Event Details

Dates

November 9 - 10, 2026

Multi-Day Event

Location

Anaheim, California

Venue

Hotel Fera Anaheim

Cost

Free for Qualified Channel Partners

Registration

Event Schedule

Speakers

Sponsors

Cancellation

Additional Info

Event Registration

Event Schedule

Nov

9

Nov

10

Sessions for Monday, November 9, 2026

1:45 PM

Registration opens - AGENDA SUBJECT TO CHANGE - watch this space

2:15 PM

Opening Remarks

2:30 PM

The Bourbon Icebreaker: How to Choose the Right Security Tools

Learn More

Managing Editor

The ChannelPro Network

3rd Element Consulting

Law Office of Bradley Gross, PA

Join us for a candid conversation about choosing the right security tools with a twist. Between sips of bourbon, our experts will break down how to choose, stack, and justify the right security tools for your clients. If you want to scale without overspending, this discussion is can't-miss.

2:55 PM

New Realities and Risks: How MSPs Can Protect Their Bottom Line

Learn More

Sponsored by Channel Hunters

Sponsored by Cylerian

Sponsored by Acronis

Technical Editor

Let's pull back the curtain on the biggest forces reshaping the MSP business today. In this panel discussion, we're putting vendor experts on the hot seat to discuss the trends that matter most: consolidation, compliance demands, tool sprawl, pricing, and more. Bring your questions and walk away with a sharper understanding of where the IT industry is going and how to stay profitable.

3:35 PM

Breakout Session: Evaluating the Threat Landscape: Actionable Intelligence for IT Providers

Learn More

Rocket Fuel Factory

3rd Element Consulting

In this powerful breakout session, our experts dig into new data from the industry's biggest threat reports and translate it into what actually matters for MSPs on the ground. You’ll hear the numbers, the trends, and—most importantly—the real-world impact behind them so you can adjust your defenses, guide clients, and stay ahead of what’s coming next.

3:35 PM

Breakout Session: Sticky by Design: How to Leverage Security to Build Client Loyalty

Learn More

Landing security clients is one thing—keeping them is the real game. During this breakout session, we're diving into the habits, communication rhythms, and service touches that install confidence and ensure contract renewals. Walk away with practical ways to grow business relationships without constantly re-proving your value.

4:10 PM

Sponsor presentations, product demos, partner program updates and more!

5:10 PM

Breakout Session: You Are the First Line of Defense: Cyber Hygiene for MSP Leaders

Learn More

Rocket Fuel Factory

3rd Element Consulting

Cybersecurity leaders are prime targets, and this fast-paced workshop shows you exactly how attackers exploit your personal exposure to breach businesses, damage reputations, and run social engineering campaigns. Join us to map your digital footprint, spot your weak points, and walk away with a clear, practical plan to protect your identity, reputation, and the clients who rely on you.

5:10 PM

Breakout Session: Your First Call in an Emergency: Dissecting Your Incident Response Plan

Learn More

When something goes sideways in IT, every second counts. This dynamic breakout session highlights the elements that go into a stellar incident response plan. You'll learn exactly what should happen in the first hour, who owns which decisions, and how to keep a small emergency from turning into a full-blown disaster.

5:55 PM

Vendor Preference Directory - Cast Your Vote!

6:55 PM

Day 1 Closing Remarks

7:00 PM

Welcome Cocktail Reception in the Exhibit Hall [Sponsored by Ciardi Ciardi Astin]

Sessions for Tuesday, November 10, 2026

7:30 AM

Networking Breakfast

8:30 AM

Opening Remarks

8:45 AM

Adopting a Security Framework: Guarding Against the Most Dangerous Cyberattacks

Learn More

Philip de Souza

Security frameworks aren’t paperwork. They’re the blueprint that helps you safeguard clients, detect and respond to threats, and recover when the #@$% hits the fan. In this session, we’ll break down how to choose the right framework, map it to real threats MSPs face every day, and translate it into actionable steps you can take as soon as you get home.

9:15 AM

Sponsor presentations, product demos, partner program updates and more!

10:25 AM

Break

10:35 AM

How to Automate Your MSP and Scale with AI

Learn More

3rd Element Consulting

Many MSPs want to hop on the automation hype train, but the biggest gains come from fixing workflows and adopting AI internally first. This session will show how to target the right processes and get quick wins without sacrificing security.

11:05 AM

Sponsor presentations, product demos, partner program updates and more!

12:50 PM

Product & Services Expo Luncheon

2:20 PM

Channel’s Got Talent: Cybersecurity Pitch Edition

Learn More

Technical Editor

Want to avoid the after-lunch food coma? In this fast and fun showdown, four brave attendees will pitch their cybersecurity services. After getting honest (and perhaps slightly silly) feedback from our judges, they'll try again with a stronger, sharper pitch. The crowd will vote, one champion will emerge, and the winner earns bragging rights and eternal glory.

2:55 PM

Who Is Liable When AI Fails?

Learn More

Law Office of Bradley Gross, PA

AI and automation tools promise efficiency, but when they misfire, MSPs are left holding the legal bag. In this session, Brad Gross, one of the nation’s leading MSP attorneys, reveals the hidden liabilities of AI adoption, and how to draft protective language into your MSAs and SOWs before disaster strikes.

3:25 PM

Selling With Insight: Using Data to Find Hidden Revenue

Learn More

Red Box + STORM AI

Philip de Souza

Most MSPs sit on a goldmine of data without realizing it. This session shows you how to dig into ticket trends, asset details, and security gaps to find new sales opportunities. You’ll learn simple ways to take a data-driven approach and deliver smarter recommendations and stronger proposals

3:55 PM

How Not to Get Sued: Local Legal Issues for **California** MSPs

Learn More

Law Office of Bradley Gross, PA

Back by popular demand, Bradley Gross returns with a hard-hitting session built specifically for **California** MSPs. It’s a risky time to be in tech services, and one lawsuit can drain your time, money, and reputation. Bradley will break down the biggest legal threats MSPs in the **West** face, the mistakes that spark lawsuits, and the concrete steps you need to take today to protect your business.

4:25 PM

Sponsor Awards Voting

4:35 PM

The 4th Quarter Speech: Adjustments You Need to Make to Win the Game

Learn More

Corey Kirkendoll

5K Technical Services

This is the locker-room talk every MSP needs before heading back onto the field. In this inspirational featured session, we'll tie the lessons you've learned at ChannelPro DEFEND to practical next steps. We'll deliver a concrete plan to confront the challenges in your business, implement the right strategies, and coach your employees to success.

4:45 PM

Partner in Excellence Award

Learn More

Help us celebrate greatness at our Partner in Excellence Award Ceremony. We'll recognize a local IT channel legend for their leadership, innovation, camaraderie, and commitment to building the industry.

5:20 PM

Sponsor Awards & Attendee Giveaways!

5:30 PM

Closing Remarks

Speakers

Speakers

Philip de Souza

President

Aurora

Learn More

Philip de Souza is a serial entrepreneur and cybersecurity pioneer with a passion for turning bold ideas into multimillion-dollar success stories. He founded Aurora IT, scaling it into a $30M powerhouse protecting government, financial, and enterprise clients before its acquisition by Plurilock. He also launched HotLunch.com, a disruptive SaaS platform that revolutionized school and corporate lunch programs, now serving more than 200,000 customers across North America. With three decades of experience across technology, finance, and compliance, Philip thrives on building, scaling, and advising companies at every stage of growth. He is a sought-after growth strategist, helping startups and midsize firms expand market share, accelerate revenue, and outpace the competition. Driven by impact as much as innovation, Philip co-founded Ainiti, a nonprofit that empowers underserved young women through technology and education. He also hosts the Let’s Talk About (Secur)IT podcast, where he brings industry leaders together to share insights on cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and the future of digital trust.

Adopting a Security Framework: Guarding Against the Most Dangerous Cyberattacks

Nov 10, 2026 8:45am

Selling With Insight: Using Data to Find Hidden Revenue

Nov 10, 2026 3:25pm

CEO

Red Box + STORM AI

Learn More

As co-founder of Red Box Business Solutions, a women-owned business, Seana is passionate about leading people around a mission and leveraging innovative technologies to grow, scale and secure businesses. Red Box is an AI-Focused, concierge-level managed service provider and cyber security firm, exceeding the technology needs of businesses, nationwide. Their team of award-winning experts deliver the highest level of service in the industry.

Selling With Insight: Using Data to Find Hidden Revenue

Nov 10, 2026 3:25pm

Managing Editor

The ChannelPro Network

Learn More

Anjali Fluker is Senior Channel Editor at The ChannelPro Network. She is an award-winning reporter and editor in the news industry for 25 years, specializing in topics including sports, local government, real estate and development, restaurants, and transportation for publications in Detroit, MI, and Orlando, FL.

The Bourbon Icebreaker: How to Choose the Right Security Tools

Nov 9, 2026 2:30pm

President

Law Office of Bradley Gross, PA

Learn More

Brad Gross is the founding partner of the Law Office of Bradley Gross, P.A., a law firm that specializes in transactions involving technology service providers, solution resellers, IT professionals and technology companies worldwide. Brad is one of the leading international legal authorities in cloud transactions, having counseled thousands of MSPs nationwide for over 23 years. He has been listed on fifteen occasions to the national list of Super Lawyers in IT & Technology Law. Brad has his own podcast, TechnologyBradcast.com, that covers security, licensing, and contract issues for MSPs, and sits on the Board of Digitunity, a non-profit organization that helps close the digital divide. He is also the founding partner of MSPTerms, a cloud-based document management platform engineered for MSPs.

The Bourbon Icebreaker: How to Choose the Right Security Tools

Nov 9, 2026 2:30pm

Who Is Liable When AI Fails?

Nov 10, 2026 2:55pm

How Not to Get Sued: Local Legal Issues for **California** MSPs

Nov 10, 2026 3:55pm

Corey Kirkendoll

President/CEO

5K Technical Services

Learn More

Corey Kirkendoll, President and CEO of 5K Technical Services, heads a leading Managed Service Provider (MSP) serving SMBs in North Texas. With over 30 years of experience in Information Services and technology, Corey held pivotal roles at IBM, Cisco Systems, Dell, EMC, and VMware. Recognized for expertise in IT and Cyber Security, Corey's leadership drives rapid growth and industry benchmarks for MSPs nationwide. Corey prioritizes process-oriented excellence in security and compliance, setting industry standards. Beyond corporate duties, he is a prominent speaker and author, contributing to CompTIA and serving on various boards promoting diversity and inclusion. As former chair of CompTIA Managed Services Executive Council, his influence extends to Channel Advisory Boards and garnered accolades like the CompTIA Community Leadership award and ChannelPro Peer of the Year. Corey, a Tech Titan, holds certifications including CCIE, CISSP, and CCSA, and multiple degrees from Jones International University. Engaged in continuous learning, he graduated from SBA Emerging Leaders and Goldman Sachs SB 10K Programs.

The 4th Quarter Speech: Adjustments You Need to Make to Win the Game

Nov 10, 2026 4:35pm

CEO

3rd Element Consulting

Learn More

Dawn Sizer is a CEO and technologist with security, training, and policy specializations. She can make complex technical information relatable for any audience. This is showcased in her writings, speaking engagements, her MSP (3rd Element), and podcast (Rebel Executives). 3rd Element incorporated in 2005 and has made CRN’s MSP 500 list for the last four years. Dawn has been nominated as one of the top women in the channel for the last three years, holds an MBA in IT, as well as industry standard certifications. She sits on Partner Advisory councils of five of the top distributors, security, and cyber insurance companies in the space, as well as The Channel Company for XChange and Women of the Channel. Dawn has been married for more than 25 years to her husband and partner in everything. They have two boys and two goofy dogs, Pilot and Odin.

The Bourbon Icebreaker: How to Choose the Right Security Tools

Nov 9, 2026 2:30pm

Breakout Session: Evaluating the Threat Landscape: Actionable Intelligence for IT Providers

Nov 9, 2026 3:35pm

Breakout Session: You Are the First Line of Defense: Cyber Hygiene for MSP Leaders

Nov 9, 2026 5:10pm

How to Automate Your MSP and Scale with AI

Nov 10, 2026 10:35am

Cofounder

Rocket Fuel Factory

Learn More

Henry Timm is a technology executive, cybersecurity advocate, and community builder focused on one clear mission: build stronger businesses, stronger communities, and a stronger IT industry. As CEO of Phantom Technology Solutions, Henry leads a performance-driven Managed IT Services Provider supporting compliance-focused SMBs across the Midwest. His firm partners with manufacturing, healthcare, and other regulated organizations to modernize, stabilize, and secure their technology environments with solutions designed for long-term reliability and accountability. He is also the cofounder of Rocket Fuel Factory, a business accelerator and incubator built to help MSPs, vendors, and IT consultants scale through community, coaching, and disciplined execution. Through education, strategic partnership, and practical enablement, Rocket Fuel Factory equips leaders to grow with intention rather than drift with the market. Henry is one of the original cofounders of The Tech Degenerates, a global community of MSPs, IT operators, and technology leaders committed to honest conversations, peer accountability, and raising operational standards across the channel. The community is known for cutting through noise, rejecting hype, and creating a space where experienced professionals can challenge each other, share lessons learned, and strengthen the industry from the inside out. With more than two decades of experience spanning IT leadership, cybersecurity, support, and software development, Henry operates at the intersection of technology strategy, operational discipline, and community engagement. He is known for addressing hard truths, guiding teams through meaningful change, and helping organizations build resilience that holds up under pressure. Henry serves in leadership on the GTIA Cybersecurity Executive Council and on the GTIA Global Leadership Committee. He is also an active member of FBI InfraGard. He advises vendors, nonprofits, peer groups, and event organizers committed to raising the bar for professionalism and security across the IT channel. He regularly cohosts MSP Community Live, a livestream series dedicated to elevating the broader IT community, and is a frequent podcast guest and industry contributor sharing insights on leadership, cybersecurity, compliance, and channel trends. His recognitions include CRN MSP 500 and Pioneer 250, Michiana Forty Under 40, the GTIA Community Leadership Award, a nomination for the GTIA Cybersecurity Leadership Award, and nominations for both the CompTIA Community Leadership Award and the Ernestine M. Raclin Community Leadership Award. Outside of his professional work, Henry remains active in initiatives supporting economic development, veterans, disaster relief, and civil rights advocacy. He welcomes opportunities to collaborate with leaders who are serious about building well, serving others, and moving the industry forward with integrity.

Breakout Session: Evaluating the Threat Landscape: Actionable Intelligence for IT Providers

Nov 9, 2026 3:35pm

Breakout Session: You Are the First Line of Defense: Cyber Hygiene for MSP Leaders

Nov 9, 2026 5:10pm

Technical Editor

ChannelPro

Learn More

Matt Whitlock is responsible for the strategic direction and technical content of ChannelProNetwork.com. He brings more than 20 years’ experience working in the technology industry to his reviews, analysis, and general musings about all things gadget and gear. Matt’s decade of experience in online media, community management, and web development has been instrumental in propelling the ChannelPro brand into the digital future. Matt also lends his vocal talent (and sense of humor) as host for the ChannelPro Weekly Podcast, a weekly audio program specifically tailored for resellers, VARs, MSPs, and system builders. His spare time is devoted primarily to his wife and two wonderful children as sports cheerleader, amateur chauffeur, opener of jars, target for NERF bullets, maker of coffee and sandwiches, changer of AA and AAA batteries, and fixer of computers.

New Realities and Risks: How MSPs Can Protect Their Bottom Line

Nov 9, 2026 2:55pm

Channel’s Got Talent: Cybersecurity Pitch Edition

Nov 10, 2026 2:20pm

Sponsors

Cancellation

Registration Cancellation

ChannelPro events are free for qualified MSPs and IT channel partners. Our staff reviews all registration information, and if the business details you provide on the form do not meet the required qualifications, your registration will be canceled. If you need to modify or cancel your registration, please email us at events@channelpronetwork.com.

Additional Info

Event Location:

Hotel Fera Anaheim

📍 100 The City Dr S, Orange, CA 92868

Located in the heart of Orange County, Hotel Fera Anaheim offers a stylish and convenient base for both business and leisure travelers. Just four miles from Disneyland and within minutes of the Anaheim Convention Center, Angel Stadium, and Honda Center, the hotel provides easy access to major attractions. On-site amenities include The Peel Craftbar & Kitchen, KoffeeKitchen serving Starbucks coffee, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and pet-friendly accommodations.

Parking

Parking at the hotel costs $15 per day. However, event attendees can park for free. Simply visit the event registration desk to get your parking ticket validated.

Registration Terms and Conditions

Our sponsors make ChannelPro Events possible: We are proud to present a showcase of vendor solutions at every event to provide additional learning opportunities and enable channel pros to get one-on-one advice on employing new technologies and services to better serve their clients and their own businesses. Contact information of event registrants is shared with sponsors to allow them to keep you up to date on their solutions. By attending this event, you consent to being photographed or filmed for promotional use, such as on social media, marketing materials, and our website, to capture and share memorable moments. All registrants are enrolled in the ChannelPro Insider program and are eligible for free resources. You can unsubscribe at any time. If you are a resident of California, you can click here CCPA form.

Event Incentives

Event incentives are available only to applicants whose attendance applications have been approved. Speakers, vendors, sponsors, and event guests are not eligible for incentives. Incentives are limited to a maximum of two (2) gift cards and two (2) complimentary hotel rooms per company, per calendar year. ChannelPro reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue incentive offerings at any time.

Attendee Code of Conduct

ChannelPro Code of Conduct

Privacy Policy

CyberRisk Alliance privacy policy. The ChannelPro Network is part of CyberRisk Alliance, LLC.

About ChannelPro

The ChannelPro Network is a media company providing targeted business and technology information for IT decision makers and channel partners. Via its websites, live events and quarterly special reports, The ChannelPro Network delivers expert opinion, analysis, news, product reviews, and advice for IT decision makers and channel partners. Perspectives from partners, vendors, distributors, and analysts are spotlighted daily.

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