Before we jump into the difference between a managed service provider (MSP) and a managed security provider (MSSP), it’s important to understand what each term means.
A managed service provider is a company that provides remote IT services and management for its clients. MSPs typically provide their services on a monthly basis, and they often have contracts with their clients that outline the scope of work and service-level agreements.
A managed security provider, on the other hand, is a company that specializes in providing security services to its clients. Like MSPs, MSSPs typically provide their services on a monthly basis and have contracts with their clients that outline the scope of work and service-level agreements.
Now that we’ve defined each term, let’s look at the key differences between an MSP and an MSSP.
MSPs vs. MSSPs: Key Differences
1. Expertise
MSSPs have security expertise: Security is a complex and ever-changing field, and it takes a lot of specialized knowledge and experience to stay on top of the latest threats and vulnerabilities. MSSPs have teams of dedicated security experts who are focused on nothing else but keeping their clients’ networks safe.
2. Solutions
MSSPs have more comprehensive solutions: MSPs typically offer a basic level of security, such as antivirus and firewalls, but they don’t have the same depth of security solutions that MSSPs do. MSSPs can provide a much more comprehensive cyber security solutions, including intrusion detection and prevention, managed SIEM, threat hunting, extended endpoint detection and response, Threat analysis, advanced threat protection, and more.
3. Services Offered
The biggest difference between an MSP and an MSSP is the type of services they offer. As we mentioned, MSPs provide remote IT services and management, while MSSPs focus on providing security services.
4. Skills
Another key difference between these two types of providers is the skills required to be successful in each role. To be successful as an MSP, you need to have a strong understanding of IT systems and how they work together. You also need to be able to effectively manage and monitor those systems. To be successful as an MSSP, on the other hand, you need to have a strong understanding of security threats and how to protect against them. You also need to be able to effectively monitor for security breaches and respond quickly if one does occur.
5. Clientele
Finally, another key difference between these two types of providers is their clientele. MSPs typically work with small sized businesses, while MSSPs may work with any size company, including large enterprises.
6. Tools and Resources
MSSPs have better tools and resources: MSSPs have the advantage of economies of scale. They can invest in the best security tools and resources and spread the costs across their many clients. This means that their clients benefit from state-of-the-art security solutions that they couldn’t afford on their own.
7. Around-the-clock security
MSSPs can provide around-the-clock security: One of the biggest advantages of using an MSSP is that they can provide 24/7/365 security monitoring and response. This is important because threats can happen at any time, and you need to know that someone is always on watch.’
8. Meet Compliance Requirements
MSSPs can help you meet compliance requirements: If your business is subject to any sort of compliance regulations, such as HIPAA, CCPA or PCI DSS, a MSSP can help you meet those requirements.
So, what’s the bottom line? Both MSPs and MSSPs can be valuable partners for businesses, but it’s important to understand the key differences between them before choosing one to work with.
The key difference between an MSP and an MSSP is the type of services they offer. MSPs provide remote IT services and management, while MSSPs such as Purple Shield Security focus on providing security services. If you’re looking for someone to help you manage your IT systems, an MSP is probably your best bet. If you’re looking for someone to help you protect your business from security threats, an MSSP is probably a better choice.
Purple Shield Security is a Los Angeles based leading cyber security consulting company dedicated to helping organizations protect their most valuable assets. Purple Shield Security offers a comprehensive range of cyber security services, including cyber security consulting, cyber security incident and breach response, managed cyber security, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and compliance assessments.