Managed Cyber
"Managed Cyber" or "Managed Cybersecurity Services" refers to the outsourcing of an organization's cybersecurity needs to a third-party service provider. Instead of building and maintaining an in-house cybersecurity team and infrastructure, businesses can rely on external experts to handle their security operations.
Here's a breakdown of what that typically entails:
Key Aspects of Managed Cybersecurity Services:
24/7 Monitoring and Threat Detection: This is a core component. Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) typically operate Security Operations Centers (SOCs) that continuously monitor an organization's networks, systems, and applications for suspicious activity, anomalies, and potential cyber threats. This ensures immediate detection and response, as cyberattacks can happen at any time.
Incident Response: When a security incident occurs, MSSPs have established procedures to quickly respond, investigate, contain the breach, minimize damage, and help restore business operations.
Vulnerability Management: This includes ongoing vulnerability scanning, assessments, and often guidance on how to remediate identified weaknesses in systems and applications.
Threat Intelligence: MSSPs leverage up-to-date threat intelligence to understand the latest attack techniques, malware, and threat actors, allowing them to proactively defend against emerging threats.
Compliance Management: Many businesses need to adhere to various industry regulations and standards (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS). MSSPs can help ensure compliance by implementing and managing appropriate security controls and providing audit support.
Security Device Management: This often includes the management and configuration of security devices like firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, and security information and event management (SIEM) systems.
Expertise and Talent: Access to a team of highly skilled cybersecurity professionals (e.g., security analysts, threat hunters, incident responders) without the high cost and difficulty of hiring and retaining them internally.
Cost-Effectiveness: Outsourcing cybersecurity can be more cost-effective than building a fully equipped in-house security team, especially for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that may lack the resources or budget.
Proactive Security: Beyond just reacting to threats, many managed cyber services focus on proactive measures like threat hunting, security awareness training, and strategic security planning.
Technology and Tools: MSSPs invest in advanced security technologies, including AI and machine learning tools, that individual organizations might not be able to afford or effectively manage on their own.
Why organizations choose Managed Cyber:
Lack of Internal Resources/Expertise: Cybersecurity talent is scarce and expensive.
24/7 Coverage: Cyber threats don't adhere to business hours.
Evolving Threat Landscape: The speed and sophistication of cyberattacks are constantly increasing, making it hard for in-house teams to keep up.
Compliance Requirements: Meeting regulatory obligations can be complex.
Focus on Core Business: Allows internal IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than day-to-day security operations.
In essence, "Managed Cyber" is about a specialized third party taking on some or all of an organization's cybersecurity responsibilities to provide enhanced protection, reduce risk, and often, save costs.
