How to Find the Right Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) for Your Business

When looking for a managed security service provider (MSSP) for outsourced security support, it’s crucial to remember not all IT service providers are the same. You need to find one that understands your specific needs and can offer you the best possible service.

There are a lot of MSSPs out there and it can be tempting to go with the cheapest one. However, you get what you pay for in most cases. Inexpensive providers frequently provide lower-quality services, which can lead to costly problems in the future.

Keep in mind that when selecting an MSSP for your business, it is critical to consider their experience with or specialization in serving companies like yours.

Questions to ask before partnering with an MSSP

Here are a few questions to ask a potential MSSP before partnering with them:

• Do they have experience servicing your industry specifically?
• Will they provide routine checkups and network assessments?
• Can they support the technology you currently have in place?
• Are their solutions scalable?
• What is their policy on on-demand support?
• Do they offer proprietary solutions that you can’t find with other providers?
• Can they package your service into one monthly bill?
• What will you get in return for your investment?

After you’ve acquired answers to all these questions, compare them to your requirements. Make sure they meet your desired criteria.

6 MSSP red flags

If you notice any of these warning signs when talking to a potential MSSP, it might be time to consider other options:

1. Pushes for a service contract without first assessing your IT environment

Many companies will push for a service contract without taking the time to understand your specific environment. This can lead to overspending and/or underutilization of services. It is vital to have an IT consultant help you evaluate your needs and make recommendations for service contracts.

2. Offers a standard package right away

Find a provider who takes the time to understand your business and what you need from them. Many service providers will offer a standard package right away without taking your needs into consideration. This can be a problem because you may not get all the services you need and may have to pay for services you don’t use.

3. Reacts to issues as they arise (break-fix service model)

Many MSSPs still use a break-fix service model, which means they only respond to problems as they arise. This can often make it seem like they don’t care about your business. At best, it can be frustrating; at worst, it can damage your bottom line.

4. Waits for vulnerabilities to be exposed

Some MSSPs wait for vulnerabilities to be exposed before offering a solution so that they can sell you a few more emergency services.

Always look for a proactive MSSP who’s ready to help you 24/7/365. This means they are constantly monitoring your systems and looking for potential issues so they can fix them before there’s any problem. It can save you time and money in the long run.

5. Speaks in technical terms you don’t understand

It is always better to find a service provider who takes the time to explain things in simpler terms that you can understand. They should be able to answer your questions and help you make decisions about your IT. If they can’t do that, then they are not the right service provider for you.

6. Provides rigid solutions that do not integrate

It is critical to find an MSSP that can provide a flexible solution that integrates well with your existing systems. Technology that doesn’t integrate with your existing systems can cause problems down the road. Ask your provider about their flexibility and how well their solutions will integrate with your current systems. If they can’t provide a satisfactory answer, it may be best to look elsewhere.

When you work with an MSSP like us, you can expect a wide range of services that will benefit your company. Our expert team can help you feel at ease since we provide everything from managed security services to 24/7 help desk support. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can assist your company today.