With over 422 million records exposed in 2024's Q3 alone, cybersecurity has become more important. As a result, more than 70% of businesses in 2024 spent more on proactive security solutions than on reactive measures.
This means they are focusing on preventing attacks before they happen.
So, how should your business approach security? Do you work with a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) or build your in-house security team? Let’s break it down and figure out which is the best fit for you.
How MSSPs and In-House Security Work
MSSPs are external providers that manage your security for you. They offer expert teams and advanced tools, helping your business stay protected without having to do everything internally.
The market for MSSPs is growing with expectations to reach $50 billion by 2028.
On the other hand, In-House Security means having your team inside your company who focuses on handling and preventing cyber threats. This option requires investing in the right people and tools, it also gives you full control over how security is managed.
However, finding the right talent can be challenging, especially considering the global shortage of cybersecurity experts, which stands at 4 million.
Choosing Between MSSP and In-House Security
Here are few considerations about MSSP and In-House Security to note:
- Cost: MSSPs are usually cheaper at first because they use a subscription model. In-house security can be more expensive because you need to hire staff, buy tools, and keep everything running. While MSSPs are more affordable upfront, an in-house team might be a better long-term investment for businesses with the resources.
- Control: MSSPs handle security outside your company, giving you less control. In-house security lets you have full control and customize security to your needs, but it also means more work to manage.
- Expertise: MSSPs have experts who are always up-to-date on the latest security threats. Building an in-house team takes time to hire and train, but it can give you more specialized knowledge tailored to your business.
- Response Time: In-house teams can respond faster because they are on-site. MSSPs may take a little longer since they work from outside your company, but they are usually better at dealing with complex threats.
The Hybrid Approach: Using Both MSSP and In-House Security
If you are unsure about choosing one over the other, there’s a middle ground—the hybrid approach. 23% of organizations have already adopted a hybrid model.
This combines the best of both worlds by using an MSSP for some tasks while keeping an in-house team for others.
Here are three things you can achieve with the hybrid approach;
- Save Money: Let the MSSP handle routine tasks like 24/7 monitoring while your in-house team focuses on bigger priorities.
- Stay in Control: Your team is responsible for sensitive data and key decisions.
- Get the Best Skills: MSSPs bring advanced tools and expertise, freeing your team to focus on what matters most.
An example is Amazon (AWS) which primarily uses in-house for its internal infrastructure but collaborates with MSSPs to enhance customer security services.
Who Does What?
Here’s how tasks can be split between your MSSP and In-House Security teams:
MSSP Tasks
- Monitoring threats around the clock
- Managing vulnerabilities
- Assisting with incident response
- Handling compliance and audits
In-House Security Tasks
- Creating and enforcing security policies
- Managing sensitive data and access controls
- Investigating serious security incidents
- Aligning security with your business goals
Final Thoughts
Deciding between MSSPs, in-house security, or a hybrid approach depends on your company’s needs and budget. Take a close look at your resources and what you want to achieve, and make a decision that fits your security goals.
No matter what path you choose, staying ahead of cyber threats is important, and being proactive is key to keeping your business safe.
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