A managed security service is a method that a third party uses to handle a business’s cybersecurity requirements, such as managing firewalls, monitoring and managing intrusion detection systems as well as implementing patches and upgrades in addition to conducting penetration and vulnerability assessments, responding to emergencies and providing reports. Managed security service providers provide an affordable option for businesses who are unable to afford hiring or support their own cybersecurity team or have inadequate capabilities.
A security-focused MSP is focused on cybersecurity while an IT service provider focuses primarily on IT operations. MSSPs provide round-the-clock security monitoring and management to assist organizations identify, triage and respond to cyberattacks. They typically use the high-availability security operations center and offer services such managed firewalls and intrusion detection as well as virtual private network (VPN) management and endpoint threat detection, vulnerability scanning and response.
An MSSP must be able to provide custom-designed services based upon an understanding of the security goals of the organization and its environment. In addition, they provide 24/7 monitoring and threat intelligence, premium MSSPs are also able to analyze and evaluate information gathered from a vast range of sources. This lets them proactively detect threats and to eliminate crucial weaknesses.
A MSP that focuses on security must also be able to offer advanced endpoint detection (EDR) solutions as well as XDR solutions. XDR monitors a variety of sources of data, such as firewalls, intrusion detectors antivirus, next-generation firewalls and other enterprise devices. It also provides central management and automation. The platform is able to detect unknown attackers with multi-layered detection methods and provides insight into the whole attack surface to prioritize and eliminate vulnerabilities.