MSPs typically offer IT support services while MSSPs usually focus on cybersecurity and compliance services. However, which type of service do you really require?
An MSP and an MSSP differ in their business models.
An MSP is typically a company that provides IT services, including network administration, e‑mail hosting, help desk support, and other general IT functions. A Managed Services Provider (MSP) is typically a company that offers cybersecurity services.
The information below compares the differences between an MSP and an MSSP. Let’s get into it.
What's an MSP?
An MSP is an independent company that provides services related to managing client back end systems, including servers, networking, and software.
An MSP traditionally provides break-fix services for clients who cannot solve their own IT problems.
Companies could just hire IT technicians to install new computers, fix their networks, and update software.
With its low cost and lack of commitment, cloud computing has become a popular choice for small businesses who don’t want to commit to an expensive IT infrastructure but need access to reliable technology services. However, managed service providers (MSPs) now provide a greater level of support than ever before.
A business partner who works with an MSP receives ongoing support from the MSP across multiple aspects of its tech environment, all at a monthly cost. A few services provided could include:
- Data storage and backup services
- Managed cloud services
- Help Desk management
- Network monitoring
- Project work including hardware and software upgrades
- Firmware upgrades
- Documented procedures
- And more
An MSP can provide both technical support services and business advisory services.
Some of the other advantages include lower IT costs, improved efficiency, proactive technical assistance, less downtime, and freeing up resources for core operations.
What's an MSSP?
A managed security services provider or MSSP provides exclusive cybersecurity solutions including:
- 24/7 security monitoring
- Email security
- Endpoint protection
- Incident response
- Intrusion detection
- Managed Firewall
- Security awareness training
- Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- Vulnerability Scanning
- And more
Managed service providers often handle their own cybersecurity by using a high-tech SOC. They can also offer project-based services, such as a risk analysis, vulnerability analysis, or gaps analysis, to establish a base line for a client’s current state.
With advanced cybersecurity monitoring tools such as SIEMS, MSSPs collect and analyze data from client IT infrastructures that help them identify and mitigate possible cyberthreats.
Furthermore, to fill the ongoing skills gaps and protect company staff and clients from cyber threats, companies can also supplement its own IT team by hiring external security specialists.
There is an increasing demand for managed service security providers (MSSPs) due to the rapid cloud and digital adoptions following the COVID-19 pandemic.
On average, there were approximately 270 cyber security incidents per company during the past 12 months, which was up by 31 percent from 2020’s total.
When selecting an MSP, you may choose to hire them as consultants or to directly oversee daily activities within your organization. You may subcontract simple, tedious tasks to an MSP or use them for more talent-heavy, complicated goals and projects.
MSP vs. MSSP
What’s the basic distinction between an MSP and an MSSP? An MSP is a company that provides IT support services, while an MSSP focuses exclusively on IT security. It’s important to note that there is no hard line between these two types of companies; they often overlap. For example, some MSPs offer managed antivirus solutions, while others provide managed endpoint protection.
It’d be best to work with an MSP if you need technology services to make more effective use of your IT budget; to implement and support new technology; or to supplement in-house IT resources with comprehensive technical expertise. Alternatively, it would be best to contract with an MSSP if you want to improve your security or comply with certain regulatory requirements.
Most of these providers specialize in one particular type of IT support but they may offer both types of support.
For example, Datto surveyed more then 1,800 MSP’s worldwide and found that nearly every one offers managed IT services. This suggests that companies using MSPs are also likely to be leveraging managed MSSPs.
Fulfill Your Company's IT Support and Cybersecurity needs with Intech Hawaii!
Intech Hawaii provides complete IT solutions including Managed Services, Networking Solutions, Computer Repair & Maintenance, Data Backup, Disaster Recovery, Voice Over IP, Wireless LAN, Internet Security, Virtualization, Cloud Computing, Email Hosting, Web Design, SEO, Social Media Marketing, Graphic Design, and much more. We are proud members of the BBB, BNI, Chamber of Commerce, Hawaii Technology Council, and Hawaii Small Business Development Center.
Combination of Intech Hawaii’s portfolio of managed services offerings with our robust and innovative cybersecurity solutions allows us to provide comprehensive IT management while keeping a range of cybersecurity threats at bay.
It provides companies like yours with the critical tools and services they need to meet their IT infrastructure and cybersecurity needs, all from one provider.
If your organization needs assistance with IT services, cybersecurity services or both, get in touch with us today.
