Unless you work specifically in the world of network security, there are all kinds of terms and technology that may prove confusing. This is especially the case when it comes to abbreviated acronyms for equipment and applications often implemented into office networks. Two, in particular, include MSP and MSSP. Both of these services are similar, yet there are many differences. Due to this, whether you have questions about MSP vs MSSP, you’re considering the installation of one, but you want to make sure the other isn’t better, or you simply want to know the difference for your own knowledge, here at Charlotte IT Solutions we want to break down the similarities and differences between MSP and MSSP.
What is an MSP?
WHen considering MSP vs MSSP, the most important thing is understanding what both acronyms mean individually. MSP is short for Managed Service Provider. It is essentially a service provided to you and managed off-site. There are all kinds of managed IT services that can be implemented on your website or accessed by your employees but are, in fact, run off-site and remotely.
MSP has come about more recently because of the dramatic improvements in Internet speeds we have all seen in the last decade. Until more recently, it wasn’t possible for small to medium-sized businesses to harness the power of MSP because Internet connections simply could not stand up to demand. But now, there is no shortage of managed services you and your business can take advantage of.
There are so many variations and kinds of MSP. Some services you might be familiar with include a managed help desk, managed networks, and endpoint security. You might even use a managed Microsoft 365 account. You can use a managed cloud service. Basically, whenever you use any kind of network service managed off-site by a third party, you use an MSP.
Here at Charlotte IT Solutions, we are a managed service provider. We can manage any number of your network needs, ranging everywhere from a real-time, 24/7 help desk to managing your network security and offering all the necessary updates and upgrades to keep your network security ahead of cyber criminals (although much of this will fall under MSSP as well).
What is an MSSP?
On the other end, MSSP is short for Managed Security Service Provider. MSSP has been around for far longer than MSP. In fact, you have probably been using MSSP for decades without even knowing it. When you signed up for an Internet service provider (remember when you had to sign up to use the Internet via AOL or another carrier?), these ISPs often offered their clients a managed firewall and other basic Internet security systems. These were especially basic in principle, and, eventually, third-party companies like Norton came about to offer a managed security service.
Over the years, Internet-based applications and hardware have become far more sophisticated. However, so too have Internet sleuths, cybercriminals, and hackers. Due to this, the need to stay in front of cyber criminals has proven that much more essential. And yet, because Internet security is so much more complicated than an ISP firewall, the job of protecting your Internet and network connections has fallen to a managed service provider.
An MSSP will provide you with Internet security-specific services. This includes managing your firewall, staying on top of patches and updates, and implementing new security features, not to mention testing applications and software against current network security protocols to ensure no gaps in the implemented security.
Here at Charlotte IT Solutions, MSSP is another one of the services we offer. Because it isn’t just about providing you with the applications and real-time help support your office needs, but it is also about protecting your network. We can provide you with both MSP and MSSP at the same time. Because even though MSP and MSSP are two different managed services, both can be offered together.
MSP vs MSSP: Take Advantage Of Both
Chances are, your office network requires the implementation of both MSP and MSSP. Don’t worry; you don’t need to go to a dozen different service providers to ensure the highest level of security and network productivity. At Charlotte IT Solutions, we provide both MSP and MSSP. Plus, because we offer both, it becomes that much easier to stay on top of your needs and avoid stop-gaps in network security. You don’t want too many cooks in the kitchen regarding your network security. Charlotte IT Solutions is the only MSP and MSSP you’ll likely ever need.
Help With All Your Data Server Needs
No matter the business you run, relying on a secured network and cloud-based applications is more important now than ever. With the help of this technology, you can access vital files wherever you are in the world, which can prove beneficial should you need to send employees home to work (or if another lockdown is ever implemented). You also need to know how to secure your office network from the outside world, as a single data breach can prove incredibly costly. Instead of working with one of the big box providers that will sell you a one-size-fits-all experience, our staff at Charlotte IT Solutions will work with you in identifying hardware and software applications designed specifically to help your business thrive. You will receive an IT solution that fits your business like a glove. Better yet, we can grow and tailor your services to your business’s current and future needs.
To learn more about the services we have or to begin the process of analyzing your needs and implementing a customized network service, there’s never been a better time to contact our staff here at Charlotte IT Solutions than today. Give us a call or fill out the contact request form directly on our website. However you choose to contact us, we are your local IT service provider and are here to help.