Joining the Less Than 1% of Small MSPs to Reach This Elite Security Standard 

Black Bottle IT, a managed IT services and security provider headquartered in Wexford, PA, today announced the successful completion of its SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2) certification — a rigorous, independent audit confirming the company meets the highest industry standards for security, availability, and confidentiality in the management of client data and systems. 

This milestone places Black Bottle IT in an elite tier: fewer than 1% of small managed service providers (MSPs) achieve SOC 2 certification, making this a significant differentiator in an industry where trust and security are paramount. 

What Is SOC 2 — and Why Does It Matter? 

SOC 2 is a voluntary compliance framework developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It requires organizations to demonstrate that their systems, processes, and controls meet strict criteria across five Trust Services Criteria: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy. 

Unlike self-reported certifications, SOC 2 compliance is verified by an independent third-party auditor, making it one of the most credible and demanding security standards available to IT service providers. Earning this certification requires rigorous preparation, internal process redesign, and the implementation of enterprise-grade security controls across every aspect of operations. 

What This Means for Black Bottle IT Clients 

For businesses that handle sensitive data — including those in finance, healthcare, legal, and professional services — working with a SOC 2-certified MSP is no longer optional. Many clients—no longer only identified by size—insurance providers, and regulatory bodies now require their IT partners to hold SOC 2 certification as a condition of doing business. 

By achieving SOC 2, Black Bottle IT clients gain the assurance that: 

• Their data is protected by independently verified, enterprise-grade security controls. 

• Black Bottle IT’s internal processes, infrastructure, and vendor relationships meet the highest standards for risk management and confidentiality. 

• They can demonstrate to their own customers, partners, and regulators that their IT provider has been rigorously vetted. 

• They are supported by one of the very few small MSPs in the country to achieve this certification — providing enterprise security without sacrificing the responsiveness of a local partner. 

SOC 2 certification isn’t just a badge; it’s a promise to every client we serve.  It represents our commitment to operating at the highest possible standard of security and accountability. We went through this process because our clients deserve a partner they can trust completely, and because the businesses we serve increasingly need to demonstrate their own vendors meet rigorous compliance requirements,” said John Henberger, president/founder of Black Bottle IT.  

About Black Bottle IT 

Black Bottle IT is a full-service managed IT and security services provider serving businesses across the greater Pittsburgh region and beyond. With a focus on proactive security, reliable infrastructure, and responsive support, Black Bottle IT delivers enterprise-level technology solutions tailored to the needs of small and mid-sized businesses. The company’s SOC 2 certification reflects its unwavering commitment to protecting client data and operating with the highest standards of integrity and care. 

Contact us today to get started on your SOC 2 certification.