MSP vs MSSP: What’s the Difference?

In-depth Understanding of MSSPs

An MSSP offers outsourced management and monitoring of a business’ security systems and improved cybersecurity. MSSP services include:

• Antiviral services
• End-point protection
• Incident response services
• Intrusion detection
• Managed firewall
• Security consulting
• Security information and event management
• Threat detection and prevention
• Virtual private network
• Vulnerability scanning 

Comparing MSPs and MSSPs 

Both MSPs and MSSPs — and sometimes both — can benefit organizations. There is some convergence of services and skills. Ensuring your IT environment is efficient and effective is an MSP specialty. MSSPs are key in maintaining your system’s security.

Benefits and Limitations of MSPs 

MSPs are effective in some environments, but not in others. Here’s a look at what you could gain and the possible disadvantages of choosing an MSP.

Advantages of Using MSPs

MSPs cater to process and system management. They bring cutting-edge technology and applications to organizations they work with. MSPs are well-prepared for disasters, which can add to a business’s longevity and ability to react to adverse events.

Potential Drawbacks of MSPs

MSPs aren’t onsite, which can be detrimental if they’re not close to your business, especially in the case of hardware failures. Many are located in other countries, and they can be expensive. Finding an MSP that covers all aspects of IT can be difficult.   

Benefits and Limitations of MSSPs 

Many companies will do all it takes to protect their IT environment, and MSSPs can help. They’re not always the ideal choice, however.

Advantages of Using MSSPs

MSSPs can offer a team of security pros at significant savings compared to building an on-staff team. These experts are usually well-versed in the latest trends, which can take time for an in-house team to become. Most MSSP services are 24/7/365, too.

Potential Drawbacks of MSSPs

Hiring an MSSP doesn’t mean you won’t have additional security costs. You’ll need at least one in-house team member to work with the augmented staff. And many companies aren’t comfortable entrusting a third party with its most sensitive data.

Transitioning from an MSP to an MSSP

Regardless of business size, there’s a demand for a focused set of managed services to handle security threats. As your enterprise grows, transitioning from an MSP to an MSSP often makes more sense.

• Check your agreement end date. Some impose cancellation fees if you stop service outside the terms of the agreement. 
• Audit active hardware. A new provider needs to know what they will have to support. It’s at least a valuable cross-check. 
• Ask for a runbook (with passwords) from your MSP. This helps a new provider. This data and access is yours, not the MSP’s.
• Gather software licensing. Know what you own for a new provider. This is especially helpful for potential upgrades.

Possible Challenges and Solutions 

MSSPs are new. Many companies that offer MSP services will consider adding to their offerings to become an MSSP. It’s an important distinction, as the extra S encapsulates security. Some firms have the expertise to make the transition easy.

Making the Right Choice: MSP or MSSP?

An MSP is a solid choice for businesses with basic IT needs. If you have an IT staff in place and resources to enhance protection, an MSSP might be suitable. Small businesses hoping to scale might be best served with an MSP and an MSSP.

Medium-sized businesses are often fine with an MSP, depending on data sensitivity. Larger entities often are in high-risk sectors, such as finance or healthcare, rank security as their No. 1 concern, and should hire an MSSP. 

Every business has different needs. Turn to Techmate to help determine which is the best fit for you.