The number of cyberattacks and data breaches is rising, which means businesses are becoming increasingly worried about how to protect their IT systems. This has led to the rise in popularity of managed it security services. But what exactly are they and how do you choose the right one for your business?

Managed it security services (MSS) are a type of outsourcing where a third-party company takes responsibility for managing your cybersecurity solutions and support. Those companies that specialize in offering these services are often called managed security service providers (MSSP).

Unlike an IT department, which focuses on the overall maintenance of a company’s technology, MSSPs focus specifically on safeguarding against potential hazards. The services they provide include assessing risks, monitoring and analyzing activity, and handling any potential issues that could lead to data breaches or other threats.

MSSPs can offer a variety of services depending on the size, scope and requirements of each customer. For example, a small or medium-sized business may only need basic IT security surveillance, while a larger enterprise may require a specialized IT security team with round-the-clock network monitoring and control.

For government entities, managed it security services provide a more comprehensive set of services to help protect the infrastructure that supports vital public services. This includes helping to meet legislative security requirements, mitigating security risks and filling gaps in skill sets. For DIR eligible customers, Microsoft offers a co-managed it security service (CoMIT) that combines client management, internal IT teams and MSP offerings. This helps to simplify security operations, improve visibility and reduce risk while freeing up resources for critical initiatives.