MSSP or MDR? The answer is neither!

You like to have choices, we get it. Getting what you want, and more importantly need, shouldn’t be having to choose between two less-than-desirable options. However, if you aren’t sure what you want or need, then the choice can be even more confounding. Take for instance, your business security.

When evaluating managed cybersecurity solutions, you’re generally left with two considerations: a Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP) or a Managed Detection and Response Provider (MDR). So, you weigh the options and try to figure out which is the best investment for your business. But with new threats keep popping up every day and ever-evolving changes when it comes to regulations and compliance, you can’t wait for long before you feel the pressure to make a choice and take what you can get.

There are a couple other options. Points solutions that are ineffective or do it all in-house with Security Operations Center (SOC) which is very pricey. Both are not worth the time to explore here. If you want to learn more about why outsourcing your SOC is a good idea, check out our SecOps Talent: The Elusive Unicorn of IT blog.

For this blog, we take a look at why it’s in your best interest to move beyond the MSSP vs MDR banter and how Procellis’ Intrusion Defense is different. But first let’s explore what each of these acronyms mean.

Security acronyms explained

MSSP and MDR are just a few of the acronyms that are flying around and seem to be more confusing that helpful. Before we get to them, let’s first look at another acronym you may have heard of: SIEM or Security Information and Event Management technology. This is the go-to—and very expensive and complex—solution for large enterprises that need comprehensive visibility into cyber threats across their IT infrastructure. Due to the financial and talent resources required, SIEM is not an option for many small and mid-size businesses, who instead gravitate toward MSSPs and MDRs.

Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) are the overseers, helping you manage your security at a very high level. This includes configuring firewalls, upgrading software, and providing intrusion detection and prevention systems—like antivirus.

Managed Detection and Response (MDR) providers on the other hand take a granular approach, focusing less on the ongoing daily maintenance and management of your security infrastructure and instead on detecting and analyzing any threats and responding to vulnerabilities.

Although MSSPs often encompass some aspects of MDR, neither alone can help you keep your security infrastructure at peak performance and eliminate threats.

So, you’re probably thinking MSSP or MDR, the answer should be comprehensive Intrusion Defense. There are two more things to consider—contract complexity and Compliance. Managing multiple service providers can often creep into the ROI you expect from each. Finding two that don’t overlap, or even worse leave gaps, takes a lot of effort. Most likely it’s effort you really don’t have to waste.

Then comes compliance and regulations. Just as important as incoming threats is your ability to meet your industry-specific regulations and prove compliance. Without this, it’s like an inside attack that could doom your business. And here’s why “both” is not an option—neither MSSPs nor MDRs touch on the security compliance frameworks many companies have.

Do you comply?

Some industries already have security compliance requirements, such as PCI for companies that take credit card payments or HIPAA for healthcare record privacy. However, with expanding government standards for cybersecurity, anyone who does business with the American government, or is part of the supply chain supporting government contractors, is required to meet new certification standards.

The explosion of Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) has influenced the U.S. government to raise the stakes on cybersecurity requirements for businesses that provide goods and services to the government, and their suppliers. The Securing American Cybersecurity Act (SACA) passed in March of 2022, requires businesses, and everyone in their supply chains, to take control of their security and protect the supply chain.

Launched in 2020, the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requires any business that supports the DoD—including prime contractors and subcontractors—to prove they have the proper security measures in place to protect sensitive government data. By 2025, this will be mandatory for all new awards and renewals. In the future, CMMC may also apply to non-DoD government contractors as well.

Not looking to ever do any government work or with anyone who does? You still have cyber insurance to think about. Companies seeking cyber insurance to protect them from the financial damage of a breach are now required to show proof of basic NIST 800-171 security controls and continued compliance for continued coverage. Learn more about what can get in your way of obtaining cyber insurance.

Neither traditional MSSPs nor MDRs are CMMC-RPO (Registered Provider Organizations) with the expertise to guide you through the security controls outlined in your industry’s framework. And most CMMC-RPO companies offer services that provide guidance only to satisfy security framework requirements, but don’t offer comprehensive cybersecurity services.

The answer to your question is Procellis

Instead of settling for either/or, get what you really need and deserve with Procellis. We aren’t one of 3 different types of services. We’re the next evolution of cybersecurity providers, bringing together the best of all 3 with leading edge security. Procellis simplifies your cybersecurity by offering managed detection, response, maintenance, and Compliance as a Service to encompass all of your security and compliance needs. As an all-inclusive provider of the critical elements you need to meet, and exceed, your cybersecurity requirements—from policy creation guidance to software patches—Procellis ensures you are ready for anything and continuously compliant.

With continuous compliance for worry-free audits and tailored service packages with a flat monthly fee, Procellis makes managing your security and your security budget a breeze.

Book a Discovery Meeting today to learn more!