What to Look for in an MSSP

Today’s businesses face an endless stream of cyber threats, such as ransomware, phishing, and data breaches. Staying secure takes more than a firewall or antivirus software; it requires a proactive, strategic approach to cybersecurity. That’s why many organizations turn to a managed security services provider (MSSP) to protect their systems and data.

Comprehensive Security Offerings

Cybersecurity isn’t one-size-fits-all. Look for an MSSP that provides a full suite of services, including:

• 24×7 monitoring and threat detection
• Endpoint protection and patch management
• Vulnerability assessments and penetration testing
• Email and DNS filtering
• Incident response and remediation
• Information security framework support (HIPAA, PCI, Cyber Essentials, etc.)

An MSSP with a broad portfolio can tailor solutions to your needs and scale with you as your business grows.

Proven Expertise and a Dedicated SOC

Your MSSP should have a security operations center (SOC) staffed by experienced analysts who monitor your environment around the clock. Ask about:

Certifications and accreditations (such as ISO 27001, SOC 2)
The technologies they leverage (like EDR and automation platforms)
How quickly they can detect and respond to threats

An MSSP with a robust SOC isn’t just watching alerts–they’re actively hunting for threats and responding to incidents to minimize impact.

Clear, Actionable Reporting

Security metrics shouldn’t be a mystery. A good MSSP will provide transparent, meaningful reporting on your environment, with insights you can actually use. This means:

• Dashboards and regular executive summaries
• Compliance and audit-ready documentation
• Recommendations for strengthening your security posture

You should always know where you stand and what’s being done to keep your business secure.

Alignment With Your Business Goals

Not all MSSPs take the time to understand your industry, operations, and risk tolerance. The right partner will work closely with you to create a security strategy that:

• Supports your business objectives
• Prioritizes your most critical assets
• Meets regulatory or insurance requirements

They should feel like an extension of your team, not just an outsourced vendor.

A Strong Reputation and References

Finally, look for an MSSP that has a track record of success. Check references, review case studies, and see who they’re already protecting. An MSSP that serves clients in similar industries to yours can bring invaluable experience and tailored insights.

How Thrive Can Help

At Thrive, we’re more than your typical MSSP. We take a proactive, consultative approach to cybersecurity, combining next-gen tools with expert human oversight through our 24x7x365 SOC. We build layered defenses that align with your business needs, helping you stay ahead of threats, achieve compliance, and meet evolving cyber insurance standards.

Whether you need help with endpoint protection, vulnerability management, or a virtual CISO to guide your overall strategy, contact Thrive to make sure your business stays secure, resilient, and ready for what’s next.