In the MSP business industry, many are considering switching over to a managed security service provider (MSSP) format, which is significantly different from the typical IT provider. Understanding these fundamental differences can help you make an educated decision on whether switching over to MSSP is worth the investment. It is also important to consider the consumer base and determine if you can better meet their needs as an MSSP. To learn more about this process, here are a few of the primary differences between an MSP and an MSSP:
What is an MSSP?
The first step in understanding these key differences is to realize that an MSSP implements complex security procedures to ensure that the system and each employee is protected through the latest advances in security and compliance methods. In other words, the primary focus of an MSSP is to provide the ultimate cybersecurity protection through around-the-clock monitoring to determine any potential security breaches. The MSSP model can be cost-effective, since you focus primarily on delivering IT security. This gives you a common goal, instead of having to worry about additional services that an IT provider offers.
How is an MSP Different?
As you can see from learning about an MSSP, it sounds very similar to an MSP business. Nevertheless, the goal of an IT provider isn’t limited to IT security. An IT provider’s goal is to also ensure that everything is functioning as intended. As you know, instead of focusing solely on security, an IT provider offers a wide variety of functions that can increase productivity and efficiency within a company. On the other hand, one of the primary differences between an IT provider and an MSSP is that an MSSP will further analyze data in order to determine any potential risks or vulnerabilities. If anything is detected, the MSSP will investigate further to find a solution through the aid of data transmissions and occurrences. Once everything is identified, the MSSP will create a plan of action to help change policy in order to reduce the chance of any security breaches.
Which is the Right Choice?
Determining whether to stay as an IT provider or make the switch over to the MSSP model will have a significant impact on your consumer base and the future outlook for your company. As you know, an IT provider can help reduce costs for clients while providing many features in bundle packages. On the other hand, an MSSP focuses more on providing security and looking for any potential areas of conflict. An MSSP will also provide further analysis to ensure that each of their client’s employees remains compliant with company policy. While both services offer advantages and disadvantages, you must determine which one is better suited for your consumer base. Taking the extra time to do the necessary research will allow you to determine which service best meets the needs of your clients.
As you can see, an MSSP and an MSP business share similar qualities, but they also differ in a few key areas. Analyzing the positives and negatives of each one of these services will help you determine if you should continue being a managed service provider or consider transitioning to the MSSP model. It is critical to do the extra research to determine the path that is in the best interests of your company and consumer base. If your primary focus is to offer technical features to a wide variety of organizations, it may be in your best interests to continue operating as an IT provider. On the other hand, if you are more focused on providing IT security, it may be time to begin transitioning to an MSSP model.
