Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) Defined: How It Differs from an MSP

Due to advancements in cyber attacks like data breaches that can lead to severe consequences like financial loss, reputational damage, legal issues, customer loss, etc., protecting sensitive data has become more important than ever for businesses. Safeguarding sensitive data has now become a key factor in business continuity, long-term success, and competitive advantage over competitors, which can be done by taking assistance from a reliable Managed Security Service Provider.

While Managed Service Providers also protect against cybercrime, a Managed Security Service Provider specifically focuses on cybersecurity by actively monitoring for threats, managing security devices, and responding to security issues. This blog will help you understand the differences between MSSP and MSP as it will highlight their general overview, benefits, and key differences.

What is a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP)?

MSSP is a company or service provider that provides services or solutions to protect an organization or business’s systems, data, applications, and devices from cyber threats. Every aspect of a business’s cybersecurity which is vulnerable to cybercrimes is managed by a Managed Security Service Provider. Apart from proactively protecting a business from potential cyber-attacks, MSSPs understand the cruciality of being compliant with national and international security and privacy regulations. These service providers greatly lessen the burden on the legal and IT teams of a business by taking charge of their responsibilities.

Benefits Provided by a Managed Security Service Provider

1. Advanced Threat Detection: MSSPs through utilizing advanced software identify and stop threats before they can affect your company’s operations. The threat intelligence feature provides insights into emerging cybercrimes to secure against them.
2. Vulnerability Management: A Managed Security Service Provider through vulnerability scanning and assessment identifies the potential weaknesses and security vulnerabilities in a business’s system and software and takes immediate actions to fix them.
3. Compliance Management: Apart from providing security against cyber threats, these service providers assist businesses in meeting industry-specific security regulations. They ensure a business remains compliant with all legal and regulatory guidelines.
4. Managed Firewalls: MSSPs control the firewalls to monitor network access and respond to potential threats. Additionally, with 24/7 monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of security controls, they provide robust protection against attackers.

What is a Managed Service Provider (MSP?

Unlike a Managed Security Service Provider which specifically provides security services, an MSP is a third-party company that provides ongoing IT support and management services to other businesses. By collaborating with MSPs businesses can improve their operational efficiency, save money, and access the latest technology. They act as IT administrator and grant permission to staff according to their roles and duties. They provide support in every way to handle a business’s technological needs; however, to keep the IT infrastructure safe it’s crucial to take assistance from MSSP as well.

Benefits Provided by a Managed Service Provider

1. IT Infrastructure & Network Management: MSP greatly assists businesses in IT infrastructure and network management by monitoring network performance; troubleshooting networking issues; and managing servers, storage devices, operating systems, IT hardware, etc.
2. Data Backup & Recovery: By ensuring regular backing up of critical data, these service providers guarantee data backup and recovery in case of emergencies like hacking attempts and crashed servers. Additionally, they provide technical support to their clients through phone or email to resolve remote issues.
3. Access to Expertise: Connecting with MSPs provides businesses access to skilled IT professionals who can handle complex technical issues and allow businesses to focus on their core competencies, eliminating the need to hire an in-house IT team.
4. Scalability & Cost-Efficiency: Apart from access to specialized IT skills and knowledge, MSPs ensure a business adapts itself to changing needs and industry trends. By outsourcing IT management services, companies can avoid expensive hiring and training expenses. Also, they offer an easily payable costing structure with predictable monthly or annual fees.

MSSP vs. MSP: Key Differences

Both the MSSPs and MSPs are equally important for a business to streamline operations and offer outsourcing services and solutions for that purpose. However, certain differences between them are as follows:

1. Scope of Services:

MSSP: A Managed Security Security Provider majorly focuses on cybersecurity measures like threat detection, incident response, vulnerability management, etc.
MSP: Handles a wide variety of IT operations, including network maintenance, helpdesk support, and software updates.

2. Primary Function

MSSP: MSSP aims to actively protect against cyber threats and minimize damage from security breaches.
MSP: Aims to maintain smooth IT operations.

3. Expertise

MSSP: They have expertise in deep cybersecurity measures and compliance regulations like HIPAA and GDPR.
MSP: They have broad IT knowledge and provide basic security services.

4. Examples of Services

MSSP: Network monitoring, software updates, backup and disaster recovery, helpdesk support, etc.
MSP: Vulnerability scanning, firewall management, threat intelligence analysis, etc.

Conclusion

Enhancing the cybersecurity posture has become extremely important for businesses as cases like identity theft and fraud for customers are increasing alarmingly. Additionally, safeguarding sensitive data and complying with data regulations is essential to maintain trust among customers.

By partnering with IT Company Dubai, the leading and most trusted MSSP in the Emirates, you can secure great resilience against emerging cyber threats in a fast-paced technologically driven era. With years of expertise in the industry, our professionals provide cutting-edge security solutions to ensure business remains focused on its core operations. Partner with us to run your business without worrying about cybersecurity threats.

Also Read – IT AMC vs. CMC: Which is the Best IT Maintenance Solution for Your Business?