Moving into 2023, we face a storm of cyber security challenges, from state-sponsored cyber warfare to the risks inherent in cloud computing. Executives recognize the need for sophisticated defenses, but many organizations lack the necessary skills in-house. When small and mid-sized businesses outsource cyber security, they benefit from enterprise-grade solutions to complex problems.
Outsourcing can play out in a variety of ways. Some organizations will contract with a third party to handle all their security operations. More commonly, a business will hire out certain security tasks while keeping others in-house.
For instance, a cyber security provider may provide network monitoring, freeing up internal security staff to focus on strategic tasks. Or a provider may bring important expertise to penetration testing and security education. Outsourcing can deliver significant benefits when organizations carefully vet their providers and follow outsourcing best practices.
Businesses outsource cyber security for several key reasons. In the first place, organizations across the globe struggle to hire cyber security professionals as the cyber skills gap widens. Security providers help to close that gap by delivering the expertise and tools that organizations need but cannot provide internally.
Secondly, by outsourcing, organizations can gain access to 24/7 system monitoring, often using machine learning to proactively address issues. Providers can monitor both on-premises and cloud environments for security and compliance issues. And by combining automated monitoring with human expert analysis, organizations gain in-depth protection.
In addition to 24/7 system monitoring, outside experts deliver risk assessments and penetration testing to identify weaknesses. These assessments form a critical part of informing ongoing cyber security strategy.
Additional key benefits include targeted, professional security awareness training, as well as potential cost savings, scalability and business continuity. And with security experts on tap, the organization can focus on its core business.
When organizations look to outsource cyber security, they should consider the risks as well as the benefits. For instance, not all security providers deliver the same response time guarantees. And some providers may push more technology when they should instead focus on matching technology solutions to business needs.
Consequently, organizations should vet potential security providers carefully. Ask questions such as the following:
Outsourcing cyber security involves a partnership. And like all successful partnerships, it requires good communication. Each side should clarify expectations up front. For instance, know the time and effort your in-house staff will need to commit. Be clear about necessary processes, as well as regulatory requirements.
To drive communication, schedule regular meetings with your cyber security provider. This will keep you informed about security updates and allow you to communicate any strategic changes.
Tap into the expertise you pay for. A quality managed services provider can help you evaluate current processes and choose the right strategies and technology to adopt moving forward. Explore additional solutions the provider can offer to round out your cyber security approach. For instance, your service provider can play an essential role in your disaster recovery plan.
Consider an experienced cyber security provider such as eMazzanti. Whether you need specialized security services or a comprehensive cyber security solution, we have the tools and expertise to keep your business safe in 2023.
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