As cyber threats evolve, businesses often confuse Managed Service Providers (MSPs) with Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs). While both oversee IT environments, their core objectives, engineering tools, and operational methodologies are fundamentally different.
An MSP focuses on IT availability and operations. Their primary goals are to keep network interfaces open, verify that database transactions complete, resolve desktop helpdesk issues, and patch operating system software to keep systems running.
An MSSP focuses on defensive security and posture control. Their main objectives are to protect identities, monitor host behaviors, identify vulnerabilities across public and private segments, and enforce access controls based on the principle of least privilege.
Let's look at their different scopes: 1. Net Routing: An MSP ensures site-to-site VPNs stay connected. An MSSP audits the VPN protocol configurations to block outdated handshakes. 2. Device Fleet: An MSP rolls out laptops and installs standard software. An MSSP configures disk encryption, restricts local admin rights, and deploys EDR telemetry. 3. Backups: An MSP runs daily replication tasks. An MSSP isolates backup storage behind air-gapped credentials.
Many businesses need both. An MSP keeps systems operational, and an MSSP establishes security controls to protect company data. GavBit functions as a hybrid partner, offering both managed IT operations and defensive cybersecurity hardening.