In our previous post, we explained why more organizations are adopting the managed security model and outsourcing some or all security functions to a managed security services provider (MSSP). Even the largest enterprises are often turning to MSSPs to help protect their data and IT environments, both on-premises and remote, from unprecedented levels of cyberattacks.
Managed security services typically include some combination of monitoring, threat identification and response, patch management and updates, security tool management, assessments and vulnerability testing, regulatory compliance, and policy development. With managed security, organizations can take a proactive approach to security, maximize cost predictability, and gain peace of mind knowing their network is being protected by top experts and the latest tools.
Of course, you need to choose the right MSSP to realize the full benefits of managed security. We recommend evaluating multiple MSSPs and asking the following questions to ensure the right fit.
Is the MSSP adequately staffed? If resources are spread too thin and/or turnover is frequent, threats and risky behavior could slip through the cracks, and the MSSP might not be able to deliver the level of customer service, accessibility and responsiveness you need.
Does the MSSP customize its solutions and service offerings? You should approach an MSSP with certain needs and objectives in mind. If the MSSP doesn’t offer tools and services that check all the boxes, won’t adapt to suit your needs, or forces you to purchase services you don’t need, explore other options. Also, unless your software and processes are woefully outdated and highly inefficient, you shouldn’t have to change how your organization functions to work with an MSSP.
Are all services included? If not, which services cost extra? Are they scalable? These questions apply to almost any service provider. Make sure you understand exactly what services are available, included and extra, as well as the costs involved. Also, you should have the flexibility to scale services up or down as organizational needs change.
Does the MSSP have experience working with organizations in your industry? Do they have case studies and references to share? This is especially important for organizations in highly regulated industries. There are very specific compliance requirements and increasingly severe penalties for noncompliance. Verify that the MSSP not only has the required systems, software and reporting in place, but also a proven track record of using them effectively.
How will the MSSP respond if a security incident occurs? No MSSP can guarantee that you won’t be affected by some type of security incident. That’s an unrealistic expectation. The MSSP should have a well-developed and documented incident response plan. An incident response plan helps ensure that threats are quickly isolated, analyzed and mitigated to minimize the damage and business impact. If incident response is your responsibility, the agreement should spell that out and describe how the MSSP will alert your IT team.
How Verteks Can Help
Verteks has developed a managed security services program that goes far beyond the basics to protect your organization. We can perform a comprehensive assessment of your security infrastructure, identify opportunities to increase and simplify protection, implement new solutions, and provide ongoing management and maintenance to optimize security and compliance. Contact us to learn more about our managed security services.
