Top Managed Security Service Providers: Choosing the Best MSS Partner

Did you know that your business could be targeted by cybercriminals at any time?
In December 2024, New Era Life Insurance Companies reported a serious data breach to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights. 

The data breach involved the protected health records of approximately 336,000 individuals. 

The best way to safeguard your business from these costly data breaches? Partnering with reliable managed security service providers (MSSPs) can be your best defense.

These managed IT security services providers offer 24/7 threat monitoring and detection, incident response, and consulting, allowing you to focus on running your business while they safeguard your digital assets.

However, not all managed security service companies are effective in their services.

In this blog post, we tried several of them and compiled a list of the top 10 best managed security service providers you can hire today.

What are Managed Security Service Providers? 

Managed security service providers (MSSPs) are external cybersecurity firms and professionals that deliver outsourced IT security services to businesses and companies across different industries. 

These managed security service companies help businesses protect against cyber threats by providing 24/7 threat monitoring and detection, risk management, and incident response through advanced Security Operations Centers (SOCs).

More specifically, managed security service providers undertake the following services on behalf of businesses:

• Deliver round-the-clock surveillance and administration of security infrastructure.
• Supply actionable threat intelligence and real-time security event analysis.
• Oversee firewalls, antivirus software, VPNs, and other critical security tools.
• Perform vulnerability scans and penetration tests to identify weaknesses.
• Ensure adherence to regulatory standards and cybersecurity best practices.
• Provide swift incident response and recovery to minimize downtime.
• Training your company’s IT and security staff on how to respond to cyberattacks.

For instance, Carelon Behavioral Health partnered with Atlas Systems to develop a robust third-party risk Management (TPRM) program to help them with continuous third-party risk monitoring, align with regulatory requirements, safeguard sensitive data, and ensure compliance.

The Best Managed Security Service Providers at a Glance

Here's a comparison of the 10 managed security service providers (MSSPs).

Top 10 Best Reliable Managed Security Service Providers

Let’s explore the 10 best managed IT security service providers to help you safeguard your security devices, systems, and applications.

1. Atlas Systems 

Atlas Systems is a top-tier cybersecurity service provider, offering cutting-edge solutions to protect your business from evolving cyber threats. 

As one of the most trusted managed IT security services providers, we deliver 24x7 managed SOC services, configuration change management, patch management, and email and web security to ensure a robust cybersecurity framework. 

Our security operations center (SOC) provides real-time threat detection, rapid incident response, and expert monitoring. We also deploy proactive patch management and compliance-driven configuration change management to help you maintain a secure IT environment. 

Our email and web security solutions further safeguard your business from phishing, malware, and online threats.
Overall, Atlas Systems is your go-to cybersecurity company for comprehensive digital protection.

Key managed security services

Here are the services we offer that make us stand out among the top managed security service providers.

• 24x7 managed SOC services: We provide continuous cybersecurity monitoring through our security operations center (SOC) to ensure round-the-clock threat detection and rapid response. Our team of expert analysts leverages advanced security tools to identify vulnerabilities, neutralize attacks, and prevent breaches before they escalate. 
• Configuration change management: Maintaining compliance and IT security requires effective change management. Atlas Systems helps you track, audit, and manage security configuration changes, preventing security loopholes caused by unauthorized modifications.
• Patch management: Our proactive patch management capabilities ensure that your systems and applications are updated with the latest security patches. This is to help you address vulnerabilities before they can be exploited and reduce exposure to cyber threats. 
• Email and web security: To defend against phishing, malware, and online attacks, Atlas Systems offers advanced email and web security solutions. Our threat protection tools filter malicious emails, secure web browsing, and prevent unauthorized access.

Pros

• 24x7 threat monitoring and rapid incident response: Atlas Systems ensures continuous protection against cyber threats.
• Actionable reports provide detailed insights: We perform comprehensive analysis and generate actionable reports to help you with insights for addressing identified cybersecurity risks.
• Seamless integration streamlines operations: We use software that integrates with your existing tech stack for smooth data exchange and streamlined workflows.

2. CrossCipher Technologies PVT Ltd

CrossCipher Technologies PVT Ltd is a cybersecurity company and managed security service provider that helps SMEs protect against cyber threats. 

They offer a range of managed IT security services such as managed detection and response (MDR), advanced security operation center (ASOC), Microsoft XDR, as well as Compliance and Audit Services.

As a managed IT security services provider, CrossCipher delivers reliable solutions to strengthen cybersecurity defenses.

Key services

The company offers services such as:

• Managed detection and response (MDR): CrossCipher combines threat intelligence, proactive threat hunting, continuous security monitoring, in-depth incident analysis, and effective incident response to offer a more comprehensive security solution
• Advanced Security Operations Center (ASOC): They deploy technologies to provide you with enhanced visibility into your threat landscape, aiming to reduce cyber risks through continuous monitoring and analysis.
• Compromise Assessment: The provider conducts a thorough evaluation of your organization's systems, networks, and digital assets to detect any indicators of compromise or signs of unauthorized activity.

Pros

• Enhances your cybersecurity posture: CrossCipher helps you strengthen your cybersecurity defenses by providing advanced threat detection, monitoring, and response services.
• Improved operational efficiency: The company offers 24/7 monitoring and incident response to allow you to focus on core operations without worrying about cybersecurity disruptions.
• Regulatory compliance and risk reduction: CrossCipher assists you in meeting industry compliance standards and managing cyber risks effectively.

Cons

• Limited customization for small businesses: Some users have noted that CrossCipher’s managed IT security services may not be as customizable for smaller businesses with limited budgets or unique needs.
• Complex integration process: Integrating CrossCipher’s services with existing IT infrastructure can be complex and time-consuming, requiring IT help. 

3. Check Point Software Technologies Ltd

Check Point Software Technologies Ltd offers comprehensive managed IT security services to protect your business from evolving cyber threats. 

With a focus on proactive threat prevention, Check Point provides 24/7 monitoring, advanced threat detection, and rapid incident response. 

Their expertise as a cybersecurity service provider ensures you can safeguard their networks, data, and endpoints while maintaining compliance with industry standards.

Key features

Here are some key services offered by Check Point.

• Managed network services: Check Point's managed network services provide proactive monitoring and management of network security infrastructures to safeguard against potential threats and secure network operations.
• Managed firewall services: They also deliver continuous oversight and administration of firewall systems to block unauthorized access while permitting legitimate communications.
• Managed mobile security: The provider’s managed mobile security services protect devices and data from mobile-specific threats.

Pros

• Reliable threat prevention: Check Point offers threat detection and prevention capabilities that ensure your business stays protected against evolving cyber threats.
• Expert support and management: Their customer support team is effective in managing security configurations, updates, and incident responses. 

Cons 

• Complex initial setup: Some users mention that the initial setup and configuration can be complex and time-consuming.
• Higher cost: Others note that Check Point’s services can be more expensive compared to other managed security service providers.

4. Netsurion

Netsurion is a managed security service provider (MSSP) that offers cybersecurity solutions to protect you from evolving threats. 

Their managed XDR (extended detection and response) service combines a 24/7 security operations center (SOC) with an open XDR platform to provide adaptive cybersecurity-as-a-service. 

With a focus on proactive defense, Netsurion helps organizations mitigate risks and respond effectively to evolving cyber threats.

Netsurion offers a range of services such as:

Managed IT security services offered

• Managed SIEM (Security Information and Event Management): Netsurion offers continuous monitoring and analysis of security events to help you identify and respond to potential threats effectively.
• Managed detection & response (MDR): The company combines advanced threat detection tools with human expertise to identify and neutralize threats in real time.
• Managed endpoint protection: They focus on securing endpoints such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices from malware, ransomware, and other threats. 

Pros

• Centralized compliance and security management: Netsurion's central portal consolidates information for efficient compliance monitoring and security management.
• 24/7 monitoring and support: They provide around-the-clock monitoring and a dedicated security operations center (SOC) to help you detect and address threats in real time. 
• Focused on compliance and reporting: Netsurion helps businesses meet regulatory requirements with detailed compliance reporting and audit-ready documentation.

Cons

• Complex initial setup and onboarding: Some users have reported that the initial setup and onboarding process can be time-consuming and complex, especially when deploying agents on every endpoint and configuring syslog collection.
• Higher cost: While Netsurion provides robust security services, some users note that their pricing is higher than other managed IT security service providers.

5. Gradient Cyber

As a managed cybersecurity service provider, Gradient Cyber delivers tailored solutions for small and mid-market enterprises. It offers 24/7 monitoring and response services to address evolving cyber threats. 

The company’s expertise lies in simplifying complex cybersecurity challenges through its proprietary extended detection and response (XDR) platform that ensures comprehensive protection across endpoints, networks, cloud environments, and SaaS applications.

Services offered

The core managed IT security services by Gradient Cyber include:

• Managed extended detection and response (MXDR): The company integrates detection and response across all layers of IT infrastructure to provide end-to-end network, cloud, and SaaS security.
• Managed network detection & response (NDR): They monitor your network traffic at a granular level to identify and neutralize threats before they spread. 
• Managed endpoint detection & response (EDR): Focused on securing devices, Gradient Cyber’s EDR safeguards endpoints from malware and advanced threats.

Pros

• User-friendly interface: Their software has an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface which makes it easy to use even for teams with limited technical expertise.
• Proactive support: The company is commended for its responsive and professional support team. 

Cons

• Complexity for smaller organizations: Some users have noted that Gradient Cyber’s solutions can be overwhelming for smaller businesses with limited IT resources. The advanced features and tools may require additional expertise to fully utilize, which can be a barrier for smaller teams.
• Limited customization: Other users have noted that the platform's customization options could be improved. This can be a drawback for organizations with unique security requirements that need tailored solutions

6. Avertium 

Avertium offers tailored solutions and advanced technologies like Microsoft Security and SentinelOne to ensure 24/7/365 protection to enhance your business’s security. 

It focuses on mid-market and enterprise clients providing services such as managed extended detection and response (MXDR), actionable threat intelligence, and attack surface reduction. 

Avertium's expertise lies in assessing security environments, designing robust infrastructures, and implementing scalable, long-term security strategies. 

Key features

• Managed SIEM: The cybersecurity company uses Microsoft Sentinel to provide advanced threat detection and response.
• Managed detection + response (MDR): Utilizing SentinelOne's Singularity Platform, Avertium offers 24/7/365 monitoring and rapid response to advanced threats.
• Attack surface management (ASM): Their ASM service provides continuous monitoring and management of an organization's digital footprint.

Pros

• Tailored solutions: Many users across review sites emphasize Avertium's flexibility in offering customized solutions that align with specific organizational needs.

Cons

• Complex implementation: Some users mention that the initial setup and integration of Avertium's services can be complex and time-consuming.

7. Ntiva

Ntiva offers tailored managed IT security services for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Their core services include 24/7 security monitoring, management, and remediation, ensuring businesses are protected from relentless cyber threats. 

Ntiva's services feature a layered approach, starting with a security assessment and extending to high-availability security operations centers (SOC), SIEM, and virtual CISO services. 

They work with a dedicated team of cyber experts to help you enhance your security posture and meet compliance requirements.

Services offered

• Cybersecurity risk assessment: Ntiva conducts thorough evaluations to identify vulnerabilities and risks within your IT infrastructure. 
• Endpoint detection and response (EDR): They offer solutions for real-time monitoring and response to threats targeting endpoints like laptops and servers. 
• Professional dark web monitoring: They use specialized tools to proactively scan the dark web for compromised credentials and sensitive business information.

Pros

• Expert guidance: Users appreciate the availability of skilled cybersecurity consultants, including virtual CISO services. 
• Responsive support: Ntiva is praised for its 24/7 U.S.-based help desk, that provides quick and effective responses to client issues. 

Cons

• Higher cost for SMBs: Some users on G2 mention that Ntiva’s services can be relatively expensive for smaller businesses with tight budgets.
• Scalability issues: Some suggest that their cybersecurity software may not scale as seamlessly for rapidly growing enterprises. 

8. TechMagic

TechMagic is a security service provider offering managed IT security services to safeguard businesses from evolving cyber threats. 

The company focuses on integrating security into the software development life cycle (SDLC) through threat modeling, secure code reviews, and penetration testing. 

Their services include static application security testing (SAST) and dynamic application security testing (DAST) to identify vulnerabilities early, alongside software composition analysis (SCA) to secure third-party components. 

Additionally, they provide cloud security solutions to protect your digital assets through continuous monitoring, vulnerability scanning, and workload isolation.

Services offered

• Participation in software design: TechMagic collaborates with your development teams to identify threats early in the SDLC, embedding security into the design phase.

• Integration of security tools: They integrate tools like vulnerability scanners and package analyzers into the SDLC workflow for early detection and mitigation

Pros

• Security integration: TechMagic integrates security throughout the software development life cycle (SDLC), from threat modeling to penetration testing. 
• Customized OWASP SAMM roadmap: Their ability to create and implement a tailored OWASP SAMM roadmap helps you prioritize security goals and align them with business objectives. 
• Cloud and application security expertise: TechMagic provides cloud security services, including continuous monitoring and vulnerability scanning, alongside advanced application security testing (SAST, DAST, and SCA).

Cons

• Limited focus on enterprise-level scalability: While TechMagic offers strong security solutions, some users highlight limitations in scaling services for large enterprises with complex, global infrastructures.

• Potential learning curve: The integration of advanced security tools and processes, such as OWASP SAMM or SAST/DAST, may require users to invest time in understanding and adopting these methodologies.

9. CyberDuo

CyberDuo is a Cybersecurity company and one of the managed security service providers catering to small and medium-sized businesses across industries like healthcare, finance, and law. 

Their managed IT security services include round-the-clock threat monitoring, compliance support, incident response, vulnerability management, and employee security awareness training.

Services offered

• IT management: CyberDuo offers continuous monitoring and maintenance of IT systems to identify and resolve potential issues before they escalate.
• Cloud security: The company provides cloud security solutions such as threat detection, data encryption, and access control to safeguard against unauthorized breaches and protect sensitive data stored in cloud environments. 
• Managed detection and response for Microsoft 365: They specialize in securing Microsoft 365 environments by offering real-time threat detection and rapid incident response.

Pros

• Industry-specific expertise: They offer tailored solutions for industries like healthcare and finance, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. 
• They provide employee training programs: Users appreciate the company’s security awareness training, which empowers employees to recognize and mitigate potential threats.

Cons

• Limited global reach: While CyberDuo excels in the U.S. market, its services are less accessible to international clients. 
• Pricing transparency: The company’s pricing structure can be unclear, making it challenging for businesses to budget effectively for their managed IT security services.

10. ThreatSpike

ThreatSpike offers a suite of managed IT security services. Their flagship service, ThreatSpike Red, delivers continuous offensive security testing at a fixed price, enabling organizations to identify vulnerabilities that could lead to breaches, data loss, or financial harm. 

This service supports compliance with certifications like SOC 2, ISO 27001, and Cyber Essentials Plus. 

ThreatSpike also provides infrastructure testing, web application testing, and API testing, ensuring robust protection against potential threats.

Managed IT security services offered

• Infrastructure testing: ThreatSpike conducts thorough infrastructure testing to identify vulnerabilities in networks, servers, devices, and web-based applications.
• API testing: They evaluate the security of application programming interfaces to prevent exploitation.
• Forensics: In the event of a security incident, ThreatSpike provides forensic analysis to identify the root cause and extent of the breach.
• Web filtering: The company’s web filtering service blocks access to malicious or inappropriate websites to reduce the risk of malware infections and phishing attacks.

Pros

• Continuous offensive security testing: The company provides continuous, year-round offensive security testing to identify vulnerabilities in real-time.

• Expert team and advanced tooling:
  The company’s team of security experts and their use of cutting-edge offensive security tools ensure thorough and accurate testing to help you stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.

Cons

• Limited service customization: Some users note that the company lacks flexibility in tailoring solutions to specific organizational needs.
• Limited focus on defensive measures: While ThreatSpike excels in offensive security, some users mention a lack of emphasis on defensive strategies like incident response or threat monitoring.

Benefits Of Managed Security Service Providers

Managed IT security service providers (MSSPs) offer a wide range of benefits that help organizations enhance their cybersecurity posture while optimizing resources. 

These providers deliver specialized expertise, advanced tools, and proactive strategies to address evolving cyber threats. Below are the key advantages of partnering with managed security service providers:

Cost savings

Building an in-house security team requires substantial investment in hiring, training, and retaining skilled professionals, as well as purchasing and maintaining advanced security tools.

Managed IT security service providers enable you to reduce operational expenses significantly. MSSPs offer a cost-effective alternative by providing access to a team of experts and cutting-edge technologies at a predictable monthly cost. 

This eliminates the need for large upfront investments and allows organizations to allocate resources more efficiently.

Compliance management and support

Did you know? Not complying with GDPR can make you face a fine of up to 20 million euros (over $21 million) or up to 4% of your global turnover.

Unfortunately, the regulatory landscape can be complex requiring specialized expertise—qualities that your in-house team can be missing. 

Managed security service providers ensure compliance with industry standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and others. 

They conduct regular audits, implement necessary controls, and provide documentation to demonstrate compliance. This reduces the risk of costly fines and reputational damage while ensuring that your business meets legal and regulatory obligations.

Access to advanced security technologies

MSSPs leverage state-of-the-art security tools and technologies, including AI-driven threat detection, endpoint protection, and cloud security solutions. 

These technologies are often too expensive or complex for individual organizations to deploy independently. By partnering with managed IT security services providers, you gain access to these advanced capabilities without the burden of managing them in-house.

Proactive threat detection and intelligence

Managed security service providers employ proactive monitoring and threat intelligence to identify and mitigate risks before they escalate. 

They use real-time data analysis, machine learning, and global threat intelligence networks to detect anomalies and potential breaches. This proactive approach minimizes the likelihood of successful cyberattacks and ensures that vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.

Rapid incident response

In the event of a security incident, time and expertise are critical. MSSPs work with expert cybersecurity staff that offer 24/7 monitoring and rapid incident response services to contain and resolve threats quickly. 

Their expertise ensures that incidents are handled efficiently, minimizing downtime and reducing the impact on business operations.

Peace of mind

Partnering with managed IT security services providers allows you to focus on your core business activities while leaving cybersecurity to the experts. 

This peace of mind is invaluable, as you can trust that your sensitive data, systems, and reputation are protected by professionals dedicated to staying ahead of emerging threats.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Managed Security Service Providers 

Choosing the right managed security service providers (MSSPs) can safeguard your IT infrastructure against cyber threats. 

However, not all MSSPs are equal. To choose a suitable security service provider for your businesses you must evaluate several critical factors such as security technologies and tools, regulatory compliance, industry expertise, and more.

Let’s explore the factors further.

Advanced security technologies and tools

The foundation of any effective managed security service provider lies in its ability to leverage cutting-edge security technologies and tools. Cybersecurity threats are becoming more sophisticated, and traditional security measures are no longer sufficient. 

Look for MSSPs that utilize advanced solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), behavioral analytics, and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools. 

These technologies enable proactive threat detection, rapid incident response, and continuous monitoring, ensuring your organization stays ahead of potential risks. A provider that invests in innovation demonstrates a commitment to delivering robust managed IT security services.

Regulatory compliance

Compliance with industry regulations and standards is a non-negotiable aspect of cybersecurity. 

Whether your organization operates in healthcare, finance, retail, or any other sector, you must adhere to specific regulatory requirements such as GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, or ISO 27001. 

For instance, not complying with HIPAA regulations can attract a fine ranging from $141 to $2,134,831 per violation.

Your chosen managed security service provider should have a deep understanding of these frameworks and offer services tailored to help you achieve and maintain compliance. 

This includes regular audits, vulnerability assessments, and detailed reporting to demonstrate adherence to regulatory standards.

Industry expertise and experience

The cybersecurity landscape varies significantly across industries, and each sector faces unique challenges. When evaluating managed IT security services providers, prioritize those with proven experience in your industry. 

An MSSP with industry-specific expertise will understand your business’s unique threat landscape, compliance requirements, and operational nuances. 

They can provide customized solutions that align with your organization’s goals and challenges, ensuring a higher level of protection and relevance.

Scalability

As your business grows, so do your security needs. A good MSSP should offer scalable solutions that can adapt to your organization’s evolving requirements. 

Whether you’re expanding your operations, adding new users, or integrating additional systems, your provider should be able to scale their services seamlessly. 

A scalable provider ensures that your security measures remain robust and effective, regardless of changes in your business environment. This flexibility is particularly important for businesses with fluctuating workloads or those planning for long-term growth.

Availability

Cybersecurity is a 24/7 responsibility, and threats can emerge at any time without your knowledge, and downtime or delayed responses can have severe consequences on your business. Your MSSP should be available at all times. 

Look for providers that offer round-the-clock monitoring and support to ensure that potential threats are detected and addressed immediately, regardless of when they occur. 

The provider should also have redundant systems and failover mechanisms in place to guarantee uninterrupted service., making availability a key consideration.

Relevant accreditations

Accreditations and certifications serve as a testament to an MSSP’s credibility and competence. When evaluating providers, check for relevant accreditations such as ISO 27001, SOC 2, or certifications from recognized cybersecurity organizations. 

These credentials indicate that the provider adheres to industry best practices and maintains high standards of service delivery. 

Additionally, accreditations can provide peace of mind, knowing that your chosen provider has undergone rigorous assessments and meets established benchmarks for quality and reliability.

Managed security services offered

Not all MSSPs offer the same range of services, so it’s essential to assess whether their offerings align with your organization’s needs. 

Common managed security services include threat monitoring and detection, vulnerability assessments, incident response, firewall management, and endpoint protection. 

Some providers may also offer specialized services such as cloud security, identity and access management, or compliance consulting. 

Evaluate your specific requirements and ensure the provider’s service portfolio covers all critical areas. 

Better yet, consider a provider that offers a comprehensive suite of services. This will ensure holistic protection and reduce the need to engage multiple vendors.

Secure Your Business with Atlas System’s Managed IT Security Services

At Atlas Systems, our clients are our ambassadors. They speak of our professionalism and expertise in cybersecurity.  

We deliver unmatched reliability and expertise in managed IT security, ensuring your organization stays ahead of evolving cyber threats. 

Our 24x7 managed SOC services provide round-the-clock threat identification and reaction to keep your IT environment safe and compliant.

Our comprehensive approach to cybersecurity includes advanced penetration testing, AI-driven vulnerability assessments, and tailored IT risk evaluations. 

We also provide customizable risk frameworks and seamless integrations to streamline risk management and protect your business from vulnerabilities and compliance risks. 

Trust us to safeguard your operations with proactive, scalable security solutions designed for your unique needs. 

Speak with our specialists to explore how Atlas Systems can meet your needs!

FAQs about Managed Security Service Providers (MSS)

1. What should I look for when choosing managed security service providers?

Choose an MSSP with proven expertise, 24/7 monitoring, advanced tools, and compliance support. 

Ensure they offer comprehensive services like threat detection and incident response, and check their reputation through reviews and industry recognition to ensure reliability and alignment with your business needs.

2. What are the benefits of using a managed security service provider?

MSSPs provide cost-efficient, scalable security solutions with 24/7 monitoring, expert threat detection, and compliance assistance. 

They offer peace of mind by proactively managing risks, allowing you to focus on core operations while ensuring robust protection against evolving cyber threats.

3. How do managed security service providers handle data privacy and confidentiality?

MSSPs ensure data privacy through encryption, compliance with regulations like GDPR, NDAs, regular audits, and strict access controls. 

They maintain transparency in data handling practices while safeguarding sensitive information and providing secure, confidential managed security services.