What is a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP)?

A managed security service provider (MSSP) is a third-party organization contracted by a business to manage and monitor security devices, protecting the companies’ digital assets and infrastructures. MSSP technology offerings include secure web application firewalls, intrusion detection, spam blocking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN) system management, virus protection, as well as identity and privileged access management.

Why Do Organizations Rely on Managed Security Service Providers?

Managed Security Service Providers or MSSPs have experienced growth in popularity over the past few years. Various organizations have been relying on MSSPs to prevent potentially disastrous digital attacks. Furthermore, relying on digital security professionals for assistance minimizes the workload of in-house IT staff, helping them with digital security challenges. To discuss further, here are some of the reasons why many organizations opt to hire MSSPs.

Reason #1: Scale-up Security

Some organizations find it hard to compete with a managed security service provider as they lack staff and expertise. Businesses tend to have a team that allows most of their time on selling products or service offerings. Managed security companies have a lot of employees who are dedicated to understanding how to keep companies safe from threats.

MSSPs have different teams working around the customers’ specific needs. One team focuses on vulnerability management, while another team is in charge of handling incident responses. Moreover, these tech security specialists are tasked to keep updated on the evolving threat landscape. Without experts who tirelessly monitor this type of environment, it’s impossible to defend your company against risks.

Reason #2: Affordability

While some companies have the resources to hire specialists and create different kinds of teams, others still choose to hire MSSPs. Why? Because a managed security service comes at a much more affordable price. By doing this, organizations are now able to protect their budget and their network at the same time. With a data breach that could cost millions of dollars, any price for an MSSP is definitely more affordable.

Reason #3: Adaptability and Scalability

Companies experience change regularly. Along with this growth, your technology must remain up-to-date as well to keep up. When you hire a managed security service provider, you’re investing in your company’s ability to change at will.

If you have plans of scaling up, but you lack people who can do computer forensics, MSSPs are there to help. They can also assist you when you create new web applications by testing them for vulnerabilities. Apart from this, a managed security service provider serves in an advisory role as well. They will let you know the changes you need to make to support specific goals.

Reason #4: Constant Monitoring and Risk Management

If you are a company that handles sensitive financial information, or a medical provider that keeps confidential health data about patients, you may be vulnerable to threats of some form. May it be hackers, malware, or viruses, it’s vital that every business knows how to handle the risks they face and work within a framework to guard against them.

Thankfully, MSSPs can help any organization concerned about their security to better assess and manage risks posed to their business. Their staff will watch over your company 24/7, 365 days a year. Knowing experts are protecting your company could give you peace of mind.

Reason #5: Customizable Service Offerings

By hiring a managed security service provider, you can customize your subscription plan based on your organization’s specific needs. Some companies may need data centers with added security or assistance with managing their private network. Meanwhile, others may have to leverage specific information or security administration services.

Typical examples of the specific services provided include provisioning, security updates, education and training, Privileged Access Management (PAM), role-based access control fulfilments, cybersecurity management reporting, and compliance reporting.

Reason #6: Information Security Policy Development and Maintenance

Your company’s hardware and software can’t save you from a cyber threat if you don’t have the right policies in place. MSSPs can help you deploy policies tailored to your company’s unique needs and they can also monitor to make sure your staff is following the said strategy. Ultimately, your security provider will proactively recommend modifications and even implement them on your behalf.

Conclusion

Managed Security Services Providers are proactive in securing IT infrastructures, helping organizations overcome security challenges. As such, many organizations choose to hire them as they provide various technology, resources, and staff to protect their company against potential disasters.

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