Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) offer several areas of support for organizations focused on the security of their IT infrastructure.
Here we will discuss MSSP benefits, as well as important considerations for finding the right one for your company’s cybersecurity needs.
Difference Between MSP and MSSP
Managed Security Service Providers are specialized third-party organizations that provide cybersecurity solutions for businesses. Their offerings typically include overseeing and supervising various cybersecurity tools and technologies, including:
- Firewall systems
- Intrusion detection and prevention platforms
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
- Vulnerability assessment tools
- Antivirus and anti-malware software
A Managed Service Provider (MSP) differs from a Managed Security Service Provider in a few ways. MSPs don’t offer the extensive solutions that MSSPs do, and narrow their focus to supporting IT teams, including integrated Software as a Service (SaaS) platforms.
Which One Is Right for Your Business?
While every business is different, getting help from a Managed Security Service Provider can help protect more areas of your business with advanced solutions.
Here are some other advantages of using MSSPs.
3 Advantages of MSSPs
1. Comprehensive Incident Detection and Response
Threat detection and response is a crucial area of cybersecurity.
A MSSP can detect and respond to threats in real time. They also provide continuous monitoring for network infrastructures of businesses to help mitigate any future potential threats.
MSSPs leverage various tools and technologies to provide the most comprehensive overview of your network infrastructure, including:
- Threat intelligence resources and tools
- Incident response and detection software/applications
- Online traffic monitoring and analysis
2. Experience and Knowledge
Managed Security Service Providers are specialists in cybersecurity and bring extensive experience to provide advanced threat detection, prevention, and response capabilities. This includes protecting against and responding to security threats of all kinds.
As the cyber threat landscape continues to develop, MSSP expertise can be particularly beneficial for businesses without in-house IT expertise or experience.
3. Scalability
Whether your company is expanding (both online and offline) or adding new locations, an MSSP can adjust its security services to match current needs.
Reliable Managed Security Service Providers offer scalable services to adapt to your business expansion needs, including:
Continuous endpoint protection: As your company continues to expand, more endpoint systems will be integrated into your operations. MSSPs deliver ongoing endpoint protection services for laptops, desktop computers, smartphones, and more to maintain compliance and data security.
Security training and consulting: MSSPs offer their knowledge and expertise to businesses so that the information can be given to in-house IT teams, advancing their skill set and training. This includes the latest cybersecurity best practices, data backup and protection strategies, and resources for fortifying security postures.
What to Look for When Choosing a MSSP
Threat Identification, Response, and Support
Detection and response in cybersecurity requires MSSPs to identify, isolate, eliminate, and recover from cyber threats so that sensitive data is protected properly.
Some incident detection, response, and recovery services to look for when choosing a Managed Security Service Provider include:
- Locating infected systems and isolating them before the infection spreads to other systems
- Restoring or rolling back systems and data to a healthy state
- Patching any vulnerabilities or backdoors detected to help prevent future cyber threats
Continuous Vulnerability Mitigation
MSSPs conduct ongoing efforts to assess an organization’s infrastructure for vulnerabilities and provide guidance on remediation.
MSSPs often utilize and manage firewalls and incident response systems, and prevent unauthorized access. They also offer and apply security patches to help future-proof network infrastructures.
Compliance Adherence
Security compliance involves establishing, auditing, and enforcing security policies, procedures, and controls designed to safeguard sensitive data and IT assets.
Get more information about maintaining cybersecurity compliance here.
MSSPs help businesses adhere to necessary compliance standards through various services, including performing network audits and integrating the latest cybersecurity best practices.
When searching for a Managed Security Service Provider, ensure they aim to maintain compliance with standards such as HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and GDPR (depending on your industry and business).
Safeguard Your Network With an Experienced MSSP
Managing your own cybersecurity and maintaining a strong network infrastructure is not a challenge you have to take on alone.
Tec-Refresh delivers industry-leading cybersecurity services designed to protect your most valuable assets and keep your business out of the crosshairs of cyber threats.
Explore how Tec-Refresh can help your organization by reviewing our Cybersecurity Services today.