What Is a Managed Security Service?

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A managed security service is a set of functions performed by a cybersecurity provider, often on an annual basis. It enables businesses to outsource their security services instead of hiring full-time employees and sustaining their own in-house team.

The service can include 24-hour monitoring and management of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, patch management, vulnerability scanning and incident response, as well as digital forensics. It could also include virtual private networks (VPNs) and other security measures to safeguard data and devices. Many MSSPs are value-added resellers that specialize in managed security, or offer it as an additional feature of their existing IT services. Some MSSPs concentrate on offering security services directly to medium and small-sized businesses.

Selecting the right managed security service is crucial, as it can help reduce a company’s vulnerability to attack, enhance their security posture and ensure compliance with regulations. When choosing a partner seek out a company that is proactive with regards to security and provides support throughout the day.

UBA or user behavior analytics is an example of a software that works. This method is used to establish the baseline of normal behavior in the network, and examines the actions of new users against that baseline to spot anomalies.

The most effective MSSPs can gather information about an organization and provide insight so that they can provide tailored guidance in order to reduce the success of attackers and swiftly and effectively if an event occurs, as well as advance its security posture. This means analyzing and understanding data and providing actionable alerts to avoid threats, limit risks, and optimize and refine a security program for the long-term.