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Not all Managed Security Services Providers (MSSPs) live up to their promises, and many businesses have discovered this the hard way. A recent Ponemon Institute study revealed that just 17% of organizations rated their outsourced security providers as “highly effective,” while 42% considered them only “effective.” The real problem isn’t that MSSPs are incapable, but rather that their services or level of support often fail to align with a company’s unique security goals.
With so many MSSPs offering varying levels of support—ranging from fully managed services to co-managed arrangements—the challenge is figuring out which provider will deliver real value without overpromising. Let’s explore why businesses choose MSSPs and what to look for when selecting one.
Why Businesses Work with MSSPs
Many small and mid-sized companies assume that outsourcing security is expensive and only practical for large corporations. In reality, businesses of all sizes can benefit. On average, organizations see a 25–45% reduction in IT costs and a 45–65% improvement in efficiency when partnering with an MSSP. This makes outsourcing a cost-effective way to strengthen security while avoiding the overhead of building an internal security team.
Here are three common reasons companies seek MSSP support:
1. Bridging the Cybersecurity Talent Gap
Building and maintaining a skilled in-house security team is costly and often unrealistic for smaller businesses. Even when IT staff is available, cybersecurity expertise may not be their specialty. MSSPs solve this by providing multi-level security operations centers (SOCs):
- Level 1: Monitoring alerts, flagging threats, and escalating issues for further review.
- Level 2: Investigating incidents in detail, identifying attack patterns, and containing risks.
- Level 3: Handling complex attacks, conducting forensic analysis, and refining strategies to prevent future breaches.
2. Meeting Compliance Requirements
Industries such as healthcare, retail, and technology face strict regulations like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and SOC 2. Understanding and maintaining compliance without dedicated resources can be overwhelming. MSSPs help businesses stay compliant by monitoring risks, applying the right safeguards, and protecting sensitive data from regulatory violations.
3. Managing Security Costs
For companies not ready to build an internal security team, MSSPs provide scalable solutions. Businesses can choose between:
- Fully Managed Services: The MSSP handles all aspects of security operations.
- Co-Managed Services: The MSSP works alongside an in-house IT team, adding expertise and around-the-clock monitoring.
This flexibility ensures businesses only pay for what they need while maintaining strong protection.
Key Qualities to Look For in an MSSP
When choosing an MSSP, the goal is more than just outsourcing—it’s about building a security partnership that grows with your business. Here are five critical factors to consider:
1. Industry-Specific Expertise
Your provider should understand the unique threats and compliance requirements of your industry. A healthcare company, for example, needs an MSSP that knows how to protect electronic health records (EHRs) and medical devices while meeting HIPAA standards.
2. Advanced Security Capabilities
Cybercriminals evolve quickly, and outdated defenses won’t cut it. Look for an MSSP that provides:
- Identity and Access Management (IAM)
- Threat monitoring and incident response (SOCaaS)
- Network and infrastructure protection
- Cloud and data security solutions
- Ongoing compliance support
The best MSSPs balance robust security with usability, ensuring employees can follow security protocols without unnecessary obstacles.
3. A Clear Security Strategy
An effective MSSP won’t offer a one-size-fits-all package. Instead, they’ll assess your systems, goals, and industry to create a tailored roadmap. This should include risk assessments, phased implementation, and continuous monitoring to adapt to emerging threats.
4. Proactive and Responsive Support
Cyberattacks don’t happen on a schedule, so your provider should offer 24/7 monitoring, fast response times, and proven incident management protocols. While automation is helpful, human expertise is critical for handling complex attacks and providing reassurance when issues arise.
5. Transparent Collaboration
A strong MSSP isn’t just a vendor—they’re a partner. They should provide clear communication, regular updates, and long-term guidance that goes beyond quick fixes. Their goal should be to strengthen your overall security culture, not just sell tools.
Final Thoughts
Outsourcing security to an MSSP can be a smart move for businesses of all sizes. The key is finding a provider that offers not only technical expertise but also a genuine partnership. By focusing on industry knowledge, advanced solutions, tailored strategies, reliable support, and transparent collaboration, your organization can build a strong security foundation that grows with your needs.
