When it comes to protecting your business, not all service providers are created equal.
It’s common for companies to lean on their Managed Service Provider (MSP) to handle “everything IT”—including cybersecurity. But here’s the truth: MSPs are not MSSPs, and treating them as interchangeable can put your business at serious risk. So what is the difference between an MSP and an MSSP?
The Difference between MSP/MSSP Is More Than Just Acronyms
MSPs focus on keeping your systems running smoothly by managing devices, software updates, helpdesk support, backups, and network performance. It’s valuable work—but it’s not cybersecurity.
Cyber defense requires specialized tools, experienced analysts, and 24/7 monitoring. That’s where a Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP) comes in. An MSSP’s sole mission is to protect your organization from evolving threats, respond in real time, and guide you through the complexities of compliance and incident response.
When MSPs Try to Be Security Experts
Some MSPs bolt on basic security features—antivirus, firewalls, maybe a dashboard or two—and call it a day. But real security isn’t just a product you install; it’s a living, breathing process that demands constant attention.
If your IT provider doesn’t have a dedicated Security Operations Center (SOC), threat intelligence capabilities, or certified security professionals on staff, they shouldn’t be your front line of defense. The risks are too high, and the consequences of a breach are too real.
The Smarter Approach
Your MSP plays an important role in your tech ecosystem, but cybersecurity deserves a partner who specializes in it.
At Alias Cybersecurity, we work alongside MSPs to provide the deep security expertise that most IT providers simply don’t offer. We don’t just monitor your systems—we defend them, investigate anomalies, and act fast when something goes wrong.
Because in today’s world, protecting your data and reputation isn’t optional—it’s critical.