Choosing the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) is a critical decision, especially when it comes to safeguarding your business against cyber threats. With so much at stake, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or unsure about what to look for. This guide simplifies the process, helping you confidently assess managed IT services before making a partnership decision.

Understanding the MSP’s Approach to Cybersecurity

Before diving into cybersecurity practices, it’s important to understand a prospective MSP’s approach to protecting your business. This includes their overall philosophy, technical capabilities, and level of experience.

Comprehensive Security Strategy

• Does the MSP have a clear and documented cybersecurity framework?
• Do their managed IT services adhere to industry best practices and compliance regulations?
• How do they assess and prioritize potential risks and vulnerabilities?
• Are there dedicated resources and teams for incident response, disaster recovery, and business continuity?

Proactive vs. Reactive Support

• Does the MSP monitor and mitigate threats in real-time?
• Do they offer proactive services such as vulnerability scanning, patch management, and security training for employees?
• Do they have 24/7 support for immediate response and resolution?

Questions to Ask About Cybersecurity Tools and Services

Once you have a grasp on the MSP’s overall approach to cybersecurity, it’s important to assess their offerings. A strong security strategy requires the right tools and managed IT services, so be sure to ask the following questions.

Endpoint Protection and Network Security

• What antivirus, anti-malware, and firewall solutions do they use?
• Do they have Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) in place?
• How do they handle network segmentation and access control?

Data Encryption and Backup Solutions

• How do they handle backups, and do they perform regular testing for recovery?
• How do they handle data encryption in transit and at rest?
• Do their managed IT services include disaster recovery plans in case of data breaches or natural disasters?

Evaluating the MSP’s Incident Response and Recovery Plan

Even with preventative measures in place, it’s important to have a solid incident response and recovery plan. This ensures that your business can minimize the impact of any potential cyber-attacks or breaches.

Incident Response Procedures

• Does the MSP have a clear and tested incident response plan?
• Do their procedures include steps for containment, eradication, and recovery?
• How do they handle communication and reporting during a security incident?
• Do they offer post-incident analysis and recommendations for future prevention?

Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity

• What steps do they take to restore operations after an attack?
• Do they have backup systems and infrastructure in place to minimize downtime?
• How do they ensure the security of recovered data during a disaster recovery situation?

Assessing Your Managed IT Services Compliance and Industry Expertise

If your business operates in a regulated industry, ensuring that your MSP complies with relevant standards is crucial. Even if your business has no required standards, an MSP with expertise in your industry can provide invaluable insights and tailored solutions.

Compliance with Regulations

• Does the MSP understand and support compliance with industry standards like HIPAA, GDPR, or PCI-DSS?
• Do they have experience with audits and regulatory inspections?
• How do the managed IT services handle data privacy and protection as it relates to compliance?

Experience in Your Industry

• How long has the MSP been in business, and what industries do they typically serve?
• How familiar is the MSP with the specific cybersecurity needs of your sector?

Transparency and Reporting

When it comes to cybersecurity, transparency and communication are key. Make sure your MSP offers regular reporting and open lines of communication for any questions or concerns.

Real-Time Reporting

• Can the MSP provide dashboards or updates on cybersecurity performance?
• Do they offer regular vulnerability assessments or penetration tests?
• How does the MSP communicate with clients, and is there a designated point of contact for cybersecurity concerns?

Regular Reviews

• Do your managed IT services include regular cybersecurity audits and sharing results with clients?
• Are there quarterly or annual meetings to review security strategies and address any emerging threats or changes in the business?
• How does the MSP incorporate client feedback and adapt its cybersecurity practices?

Choose IronEdge Group: An MSP That Prioritizes Cybersecurity

At IronEdge Group, cybersecurity is at the core of everything we do. As part of CRN’s 2024 MSP 500 List, we know how to help businesses of all sizes and industries protect themselves from cyber threats. Our comprehensive security strategies make us an ideal MSP partner for businesses looking to safeguard their data and operations.

Contact us today to learn more!