In this article, the experts at Vancord will:
- Differentiate between a Managed Service Provider (MSP) and a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP)
- Describe a typical transition to MSSP services
- Explore the Vancord difference
What are MSP/MSSP Services, and How Are They Different?
MSPs are companies that provide information technology support to a business. MSPs enable organizations to focus on their IT core competencies but do not provide in-depth security expertise. MSP services typically include:
- Network monitoring and management
- Server and workstation management
- Helpdesk and user support
- Backup and disaster recovery
- Software and application management
- IT consulting and project management
MSSPs are specialized companies that offer security services designed to protect businesses against cyber threats. MSSP services typically include:
- All services provided by MSP’s
- Security monitoring
- Log collection and review
- Security awareness & training
- Vulnerability scanning
- Firewall management
- Intrusion detection and prevention
- Threat intelligence and analysis
- Identity and access management
- Cloud computing security
These additional services form the foundation of a security program that reduces risk and positions businesses to detect and respond to cyber threats. MSSPs use advanced technologies and techniques to monitor and analyze networks, identify vulnerabilities, and prevent attacks. They also provide ongoing support and expertise to ensure businesses stay ahead of emerging threats and comply with changing regulations.
What to Expect: Transitioning to MSSP Services
Many companies using MSPs transition to an MSSP by either having an existing employee pass a security certification or adding an Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) product to their suite of services. These steps are essential to securing a business’s IT environment, but more is needed to protect against modern cyber threats.
How is Vancord different?
Compared to other providers, Vancord takes a robust approach to information security designed to support a comprehensive MSSP practice. Each Vancord managed service engagement starts with a technical gap analysis developed to identify, prioritize, and remediate security risks. As a result of the information security gap analysis, our clients understand their current security posture and the areas that require immediate attention. Vancord’s experts also perform a Ransomware Risk Assessment to evaluate organizational incident preparedness. This assessment enables clients to address their readiness to handle ransomware attacks, which are becoming increasingly common.
One of the most significant advantages of Vancord’s MSSP approach is its server security platform, Vantage Protect, which adds endpoint detection and response, vulnerability management, and remediation recommendations and logging. Vancord reviews and distributes actionable intelligence about emerging and zero-day threats, positioning businesses to stay ahead of the curve and proactively protect against new and unknown threats. Additionally, we enroll our client’s employees in security awareness training to ensure we also address the “human” element of a security program. Moreover, Vancord is a mature information security consulting company that offers a full spectrum of advanced security services for clients with more specific requirements.
In conclusion, the approach of many MSSPs provides basic security measures but falls short of providing comprehensive protection against modern cyber threats. In a crowded marketplace of providers, Vancord’s unique advantage offers a comprehensive and proactive approach to cybersecurity that enables businesses to stay ahead of the curve and proactively protect against threats. With ongoing server vulnerability management, actionable intelligence, and advanced security services, Vancord is a mature and reliable information security consulting company that businesses can trust to protect their IT environment.
Explore Vancord’s full suite of services, or contact our team of experts today to understand your organization’s information security needs.
