Apex Computing wins third Microsoft Solutions Partner nod

Apex Computing has achieved a third Microsoft Solutions Partner designation, this time for Microsoft Security.

The Manchester-based IT support and cybersecurity provider already held designations for Microsoft Modern Work and Microsoft Infrastructure (Azure). With Security added, Apex now holds three designations within Microsoft's partner framework.

Microsoft uses these designations to assess partners in areas including customer delivery, technical skills and ongoing accreditation. For technology buyers, the framework offers one way to judge whether a provider has met Microsoft's thresholds in specific product and service areas.

The Security designation is regarded as one of the stricter categories because it focuses on a partner's ability to implement, manage and monitor security across Microsoft 365 and Azure environments. Apex said the award reflects its work in cloud infrastructure, workplace systems and cybersecurity services for customers.

Partner Status

Maintaining all three designations at the same time requires continued investment in staff training and regular reassessment. Unlike one-off certifications, the designations must be renewed, with partners required to show evidence of customer work as well as technical competence among employees.

This is particularly significant in the Azure category, where providers are expected to demonstrate customer migrations, infrastructure management and broader cloud delivery. While Modern Work status is relatively common among IT service providers, Infrastructure (Azure) is generally seen as more demanding because of the operational and technical requirements tied to cloud deployment and support.

Apex said the combination of Infrastructure, Modern Work and Security enables customers to use a single provider for cloud systems, productivity tools and cyber protection. It added that the designations offer external validation in a market where many providers make broad claims about expertise.

Skills Focus

The latest recognition also points to a wider effort within the business to build technical skills over time. Apex said the process depends on sustained training, assessments and live customer work rather than a one-time exercise.

Founded in 2003 by Daniel Shone, the business has grown into a managed service provider focused on IT support, cybersecurity and cloud services. Chris Gorman later joined the company as it expanded its operations.

The announcement comes as demand remains strong for providers that can help organisations manage a mix of cloud adoption, employee productivity systems and security controls. Businesses using Microsoft software often look for partners with formal recognition in these areas when choosing suppliers for migration, support and security projects.

Shone linked the latest designation to the company's emphasis on staff development and service delivery.

"This achievement is due to the hard work of the entire Apex team. We have always been dedicated to professional development, career progression and continuous learning because the more we invest in our people, the happier they are and the better outcomes we can deliver for customers."

Shone continued, "The Microsoft Solutions Partner programme is much more than lip service. It is a rigorous framework that demands constant evolution. Holding three designations simultaneously requires a great deal from a business, including a commitment from the whole team to do the very best for every customer.

"Each designation has to be earned and maintained, which means our standards must remain consistently high across every client engagement, every day. Gaining three Microsoft Solutions Partner designations reflects the positivity and commitment of everyone who works here. We are dedicated to providing the very best service and will continue to improve and innovate as we move forward."