“Security Clash: The Conflict Between MSPs and MSSPs”

Brief Overview

• The differentiation between MSPs (Managed Service Providers) and MSSPs (Managed Security Service Providers) is increasingly unclear.
• MSPs are now more prepared to manage security incidents that were previously exclusive to MSSPs.
• Technological automation has made many security operations easier, decreasing the need for human involvement.
• Challenges frequently occur when MSPs and MSSPs share responsibilities, resulting in inefficiencies.
• Bringing together IT services and security under a single provider can enhance incident response and minimize risks.
• MSPs can deliver extensive security services, including detection, response, and recovery, within one unified business model.

The Overlapping Roles of MSPs and MSSPs

In an increasingly digital landscape, organizations are more susceptible to cyber threats than ever. Traditionally, MSSPs were tasked with cybersecurity, while MSPs handled broader IT support and infrastructure. However, current trends indicate that the line separating these two types of service providers is diminishing.

A practical example highlights this change. A client experienced a significant security breach due to thousands of failed login attempts from internal VPN access on their primary firewall, which went undetected by their MSSP for almost two days. On the other hand, their MSP quickly identified the intrusion and advised on a course of action, though their response was limited due to a lack of full security oversight.

This situation raises an important question: Can MSPs effectively manage security in the same way MSSPs do? The blending of technology and security indicates that this answer may well be “yes.”

The Fusion of Security and Technology

The conventional belief has been that MSPs are limited to basic security functionalities, while MSSPs are seen as providers of elite security services. However, as IT and security technologies advance, this differentiation is becoming less significant.

Historically, disparate vendors were responsible for endpoint, network, and application security, with each requiring specialized expertise. Nowadays, many of these functions have been merged into unified platforms, simplifying the process and enabling MSPs to undertake more advanced security responsibilities.

As technology becomes more user-friendly, MSPs’ capabilities are expanding, allowing them to manage tasks that were previously reserved for MSSPs. This transition prompts a reassessment of the value derived from relying exclusively on specialized security providers.

Automation: A Revolutionary Aspect of Cybersecurity

The detection of incidents, once solely the responsibility of MSSPs, is now predominantly influenced by technology and automation. This empowers MSPs, equipped with appropriate tools, to identify security incidents with similar effectiveness as MSSPs.

However, substantial value often lies in the actions taken post-detection. MSSPs may notify clients and quarantine affected systems, but when it comes to reconstructing critical infrastructure—such as Active Directories or network systems—the responsibility usually shifts to the MSP. This transition can lead to delays, frustrations, and even disputes between the two service providers.

On the other hand, MSPs that manage both IT services and security can efficiently oversee the complete incident response, from detection through to recovery. This minimizes the chance of errors and accelerates the process, ensuring that threats are dealt with swiftly.

The Challenges of the “Blame Game”

In scenarios where multiple providers are engaged in a company’s IT infrastructure and security management, confusion often arises regarding responsibility. This can lead to a “blame game,” wherein providers blame one another instead of tackling the issue.

For organizations, this ambiguity can be expensive. Delays in resolving security incidents give attackers more opportunities to inflict damage, and clients may find themselves mediating conflicts between their MSP and MSSP. Ultimately, it is the organization that bears the consequences.

Unifying IT and security services under a single provider can help mitigate these issues. With one MSP accountable for both functions, there’s no ambiguity. The MSP can take full responsibility for the situation and address it without needing to liaise with external parties.

Best Practices for Cybersecurity with MSPs

Here are five strategies to ensure your MSP maintains secure operations for your business:

1. Routine Audits

Regular audits and penetration tests are vital for evaluating the efficacy of your security measures. MSPs, who already understand your infrastructure, are ideally positioned to uncover vulnerabilities.

2. Concentrate on Key Security Protocols

Avoid attempting to address too many aspects concurrently. Concentrate on a handful of crucial security tasks and complete them thoroughly. Allowing gaps or overextending resources heightens your vulnerability to threats.

3. Establish Clear Responsibilities

Ensure there is a mutual understanding of who is in charge of monitoring and reacting to security alerts. Accountability is essential for a timely and effective incident response.

4. Streamline Your IT Setup

The fewer service providers you enlist, the simpler your IT setup becomes. Streamlining your environment decreases the likelihood of confusion and secures quicker responses during incidents.

5. Embrace Both Proactive and Reactive Approaches

A proactive approach centers on vulnerability management and frequent security updates, while a reactive stance ensures round-the-clock monitoring and swift reactions to threats. Merging both under a single MSP enhances security effectiveness.