Businesses worldwide are increasing their investment in IT management and cybersecurity. According to Statista, the global cybersecurity market is projected to reach $202.98 billion by 2025, showing the growing need for both MSPs and MSSPs.
While MSPs focus on IT operations, MSSPs handle cybersecurity threats and compliance, understanding and choosing the right services depends on your business priorities.
At SubIT, we do everything a business expects from a full-scale department without the overhead of hiring an in-house team. From day-to-day IT support to advanced cybersecurity, we take full responsibility for managing your technology so you can focus on growing your business.
Key Takeaways
- MSPs manage IT operations like networks, helpdesk support, and software updates, with basic security included.
- MSSPs focus on advanced cybersecurity, offering threat detection, compliance support, and 24/7 monitoring.
- Choose the right services based on your priorities. MSP for IT management, MSSP for security, or both for full coverage.
What is an MSP?
A Managed Service Provider (MSP) takes care of IT infrastructure, making sure networks, cloud platforms, and software stay operational. Managed services are now one of the fastest-growing segments in the security services market, with increasing demand from businesses looking to outsource IT operations.
MSPs provide:
- Cloud & network management – Keeps systems running efficiently.
- Helpdesk support – Resolves technical issues for employees.
- Software updates & patching – Assures that systems stay secure.
- Basic security – Firewalls, antivirus, and backup solutions.
MSPs offer basic security, but their primary focus is IT management not cyber threat detection or compliance monitoring.
Who Needs an MSP?
Businesses that want outsourced IT support without hiring an in-house team. MSPs are ideal for companies looking to reduce downtime, cut IT costs, and improve system performance. However, if security is a top concern, an MSP alone may not be enough.
What is an MSSP?
A Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) protects businesses from cyber threats, offering advanced security solutions beyond basic IT support. Cybercrime is on the rise, and businesses are investing heavily in managed security services.
MSSPs provide:
- Threat detection & response – 24/7 monitoring for attacks.
- Security Operations Center (SOC) – Proactive security incident management.
- Compliance Support – Makes sure businesses meet HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and GDPR requirements.
- Penetration testing & risk assessments – Finds vulnerabilities before hackers do.
Who Needs an MSSP?
Businesses handling sensitive data or facing high cyber risks. MSSPs are vital for industries like finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and SaaS that need strict security measures and compliance. If security is a priority, an MSSP is the right choice.
The Difference Between MSP and MSSP
Here are the key differences for MSP and MSSPs:
| Feature | MSP | MSSP |
| Focus | IT management | Cybersecurity |
| Services | Cloud, network, helpdesk | Threat monitoring, response |
| Security Level | Basic (firewalls, antivirus) | Advanced (SIEM, SOC, compliance) |
| Best for | IT efficiency | Cyber risk protection |
Do You Need an MSP, MSSP, or Both?
- Choose an MSP if you need IT management with minimal security needs.
- Choose an MSSP if cybersecurity and compliance are your main concerns.
- Use both if you want fully managed IT and security. Some providers offer hybrid MSP + MSSP solutions for complete coverage.
Need IT Support or Security You Can Rely On?
If you need IT management, advanced cybersecurity, or both, choosing the right provider makes all the difference. MSPs keep your systems running, and MSSPs keep them secure. SubIT offers both at a high level without the hassle of hiring an in-house team.
Ready to see how we can help? Get in touch today and let’s find the right solution for your business.
