At Big Sur Technologies, we believe in partnering with industry leaders who help us bring smarter, stronger cybersecurity to the businesses we serve. That’s why we sat down with Alice Strange, Senior Territory Account Manager at SonicWall, to talk about her career, the evolving threat landscape, and how organizations of all sizes can stay protected.
A Career Built on Connection & Innovation
Alice entered the IT industry right out of college, starting her career at Dell. Her role there led to involvement with SonicWall during the time it was under Dell’s ownership (which has since changed). Over the last seven years, she has built a dynamic career at SonicWall, shifting from managing corporate relationships to supporting partners and customers directly throughout Florida.
“It started as just a job, but I’ve grown to love this space, especially working with people who are passionate about making cybersecurity accessible and effective.”
Her deep experience and approachable leadership style make her a vital resource in the field, especially for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that often lack in-house cybersecurity expertise.
Cybersecurity in 2025: What SMBs Need to Know
Alice emphasized that cybersecurity threats are no longer exclusive to large enterprises. SMBs are increasingly in the crosshairs of modern cybercriminals.
The Most Common Threats:
- Ransomware that can freeze entire operations.
- AI-powered phishing attacks that deceive even tech-savvy users.
- Supply chain breaches that compromise vendors and partners.
“The Idea that ‘we’re too small to be attacked’ just isn’t true anymore. Cybercriminals often view SMBs as easier targets.”
These rising threats require a shift in mindset. Many businesses assume a single firewall is enough protection. Alice made it clear: True security requires a layered approach.
That’s where Big Sur Technologies plays a key role – helping SMBs build, implement, and manage customized multi-layered defenses that include firewalls, endpoint protection, cloud security, and more.
GRID Threat Network: Global Protection, Local Impact
SonicWall’s GRID Threat Network is a game-changer. It gathers threat intelligence from devices around the world and combines it with expert analysis to stop attacks before they do damage.
“It allows partners like Big Sur to be proactive and deliver zero-touch protection to clients.”
This proactive intelligence enables us to help our clients stay ahead of emerging threats, often without lifting a finger.
Debunking Cybersecurity Myths
Alice also addressed a few common misconceptions she sees when working with business owners:
- “A firewall is enough.” It’s not. It’s just one layer, leaving many opportunities for threats.
- “We’re too small to be attacked.” False. SMBs are now primary targets.
- “One-size-fits-all protection works.” Every network is unique, and it takes a team like Big Sur to create a plan that will accurately protect your business.
At Big Sur, we help clients see the big picture and build solutions tailored to their needs, not just plug in a generated fix.
What’s New at SonicWall
Alice gave us a preview of some of SonicWall’s latest innovations:
- Cloud Secure Edge (CSE): Secure, user-friendly remote access.
- Gen8 Firewalls: Including the TZ80, NSa 2800, and NSa 3800.
- Cyber Warranty: Added protection via Cysurance.
- Sonic Century: Managed security services tailored for MSPs.
- Enhanced NSM Tools: Simplified network management and reporting.
Big Sur proudly leverages these tools to help businesses simplify and strengthen their cybersecurity posture.
Advice for SMBs Feeling Overwhelmed
“You don’t have to be the expert – just know how to surround yourself with the right team.”
Alice’s advice for SMBs: start small. Understand the basics, partner with trusted professionals, and build from there. Whether businesses prefer CAPEX or OPEX investment models, Big Sur works to align solutions with each client’s budget and business model.
Advocating for Women in Cybersecurity
Alice encourages women to lead with their strengths and find teams that support and empower them. She values SonicWall’s Women in Tech group and the mentorship she’s received from leadership.
“Find your tribe. Be confident. Show up and add value from day one.”
A Day in the Life
No two Days are the same for Alice. Whether she’s traveling across Florida or coordinating with the partners, she says the people – both internal and external – are what keep her energized. Tampa holds a special place for her, thanks to the meaningful connections she’s built with partners and clients in the area.
Looking Ahead: Simplicity, Intelligence & Collaboration
“Our mission is to make world-class cybersecurity accessible to every organization, regardless of size or budget. The future is about simplicity, automation, intelligence, and working with partners like Big Sur to bring that future to life.”
At Big Sur Technologies, we’re proud to help businesses take the next step in their cybersecurity journey, backed by SonicWall innovation and insight from experts like Alice Strange.