MSPs (Managed Service Providers) and MSSPs (Managed Security Service Providers) are both providers of managed IT services for your business. However, they have key differences between them that make them suitable for different problems. You can’t substitute one for the other.

What Are MSPs and MSSPs?

As stated, both MSP and MSSP are providers of managed IT services. However, there are a few differences that set them apart.

MSP

An MSP is an IT services provider to a lot of companies. These services are provided on a fixed-fee-based model monthly, annually, or semi-annually. These services can also be provided per device, per user, or per pre-defined package. The IT solutions that form the core of an MSP are remote monitoring management tools and ticketing systems.

MSSP

MSSPs differ in that they primarily provide security services. These managed IT services include influencing security policy procedures and evaluating risks based on previous history. MSSPs provide custom solutions to companies depending on their history of security problems or similar research.

Most of the data that is gathered from the company by an MSSP is transformed into actionable intelligence. These can include implementing hardware additions or modifications and software overhauls. It can also involve training company staff on basic response protocols and identifying hacks. This information comes in handy when you’re considering IT as a service.

These are just some of the differences between MSSPs and MSPs worth considering when choosing the best IT solutions Gold Coast has to offer.

The Pros and Cons of MSP

MSPs have a lot of pros and cons

Pros

  • Provides remote management and monitoring tools like ticket trackers and remote desktop monitoring.
  • Provides onsite services which acts as managed IT solutions tech support for various problemsTea.
  • Provides help desk support to accept calls and support hardware/software the MSP sells.

Cons 

  • Lacks focus on security as a service.
  • Is more administration oriented rather than threat or event oriented.
  • Limited to patching and licensing rather than rooting out systematic vulnerabilities.

The Pros and Cons of MSSP 

MSSPs have clear advantages to MSPs

Pros  

    • Works as a security operations centre with a specific focus on security rather than general managed IT solutions.
    • Focuses on Security Information and Event Management to block threats.
    • Integrates security within a company’s systems to root out vulnerabilities and upgrade hardware and software.
    • Constantly detects for intrusions in to the system to prevent spread through devices.

    Cons

    • Doesn’t include overall tech support.
    • Risky to outsource security to untrustworthy vendors.

    Looking at these differences should be a priority if you’re looking for managed IT services Brisbane.