The question of MSP vs. MSSP (Managed Service Provider vs. Managed Security Service Provider) is becoming more common as businesses navigate increasingly complex IT and cybersecurity demands. With overlapping services and evolving threats, it’s easy to get confused about which provider does what.
This article will clarify the differences between MSPs and MSSPs, highlight where they intersect, and help you determine which option—or combination—makes the most sense for your business.
A Managed Service Provider (MSP) delivers outsourced IT services that handle the day-to-day technical needs of a business. Typical responsibilities include:
network monitoring,
help desk support,
hardware and software management,
system updates
regular backups.
MSPs help businesses operate more efficiently by keeping technology systems running smoothly without the need for a large internal IT team.
MSPs are especially valuable for small to mid-sized businesses that want consistent, cost-effective IT support without the overhead of hiring, training, and retaining full-time IT staff.
What Is an MSSP?
A Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) focuses specifically on cybersecurity. While MSPs manage general IT infrastructure, MSSPs monitor, detect, and respond to security threats in real time. Services often include:
firewall and intrusion detection management,
threat intelligence,
vulnerability scanning,
endpoint detection and response (EDR)
incident response.
MSSPs are essential for organizations that need to strengthen their cybersecurity posture, protect sensitive data, and meet compliance requirements—especially in industries like healthcare, finance, and legal services.
Unlike traditional MSPs, MSSPs often operate 24/7 security operations centers (SOCs) and offer specialized tools and expertise to defend against evolving threats.
Key Differences Between MSP and MSSP
While MSPs and MSSPs may seem similar on the surface, their core functions, tools, and goals are quite different. Understanding these distinctions is essential when determining which provider—or combination of providers—is right for your business.
MSPs focus on maintaining IT operations, such as ensuring devices run smoothly, software stays updated, and users receive timely technical support. MSSPs, on the other hand, specialize in cybersecurity: monitoring for threats, responding to incidents, and reducing the risk of data breaches.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help clarify:
Category
MSP (Managed Service Provider)
MSSP (Managed Security Service Provider)
Primary Focus
IT operations, infrastructure, and user support
Cybersecurity, threat detection, and incident response
Key Tools
RMM (Remote Monitoring & Management), ticketing systems
SIEM (Security Info & Event Mgmt), EDR/MDR, threat intel tools
Acts as an outsourced Security / Risk Mitigation department
Cybersecurity
Typically provides baseline cybersecurity service offerings such as system and email monitoring and application patching
Provides comprehensive and advanced cybersecurity services such as endpoint and network protection, threat detection and response, threat intelligence, threat hunting, and other cybersecurity offerings
Recognizing these differences can help businesses identify gaps in their current approach and plan more strategically for long-term success.
Can a Company Be Both MSP and MSSP? (And Should Yours Work with One or Both?)
Yes, a company can offer both MSP and MSSP services—but that doesn’t always mean it should.
Some providers attempt to “bolt on” security services to their traditional IT management without the depth, expertise, or tools required to truly defend against today’s threats. This often leads to confusion, inefficiencies, and gaps between IT operations and cybersecurity strategy.
A hybrid model can work, but only when the provider has a clear structure and proven ability to deliver both disciplines with equal strength.
Certified NETS Delivers Both—Without the Runaround
At Certified NETS, we provide both managed IT and managed security services—so you don’t have to juggle multiple vendors to cover your bases. While these services are distinct, our Clockwork Approach ensures they work in harmony to support your business goals. And with our Direct to Expert model, you get access to specialists in both areas without jumping through hoops or getting handed off between unrelated teams.
Whether it’s patching a server, monitoring your network, or investigating a security alert, our teams coordinate closely to keep your environment secure and running smoothly.
Real-World Example: How Advanced Security Stopped a BEC Attempt
One of our clients, a financial advisor firm in St. Louis, experienced an attempted business email compromise (BEC) attack when a cybercriminal impersonated an employee. Because Certified NETS had deployed advanced threat detection tools within their email environment—combined with routine user behavior analysis and secure authentication protocols—the attack was flagged and blocked before any damage was done.
Even better, thanks to our Direct to Expert support structure, the client received immediate attention and fast remediation without being bounced between an IT team and a separate security vendor. The issue was resolved within minutes, and business carried on without interruption.
This kind of responsive, coordinated support is why so many small to medium sized businesses rely on Certified NETS for both their IT and cybersecurity needs.
Questions to Ask When Choosing an MSP vs MSSP
Choosing the right partner depends on more than just a services list. It’s about aligning your provider’s strengths with your business’s priorities, risks, and compliance needs.
These questions can help clarify which type of provider—or combination—will best support your goals:
What regulations or compliance standards must we meet and does the provider have expertise in these regulations?
If your business handles sensitive data (like health records or payment info), your IT partner should have deep knowledge of relevant compliance standards such as HIPAA, FINRA, SEC, FedRAMP, PCI-DSS, or CMMC. A provider’s ability to help you stay compliant can prevent costly penalties and data breaches.
Are our IT needs primarily operational or security-driven?
(Or do we need a provider who can handle both equally well?)
Some organizations need help keeping devices running and users supported, while others prioritize threat detection and risk mitigation. Understanding where your biggest challenges lie can point you toward the right kind of provider—or confirm if you need both MSP and MSSP support.
At Certified NETS, we work with our clients to fill out Security Questionnaires they get from their clients and prospects. This is a good fit for companies whose clients are larger and security minded. Often, if your clients are Hospitals, Universities, government entities, or large research institutions - then your clients require their supply chain to prove they incorporate security standards. We assist with providing guidance to meet the requirements of these surveys as well as assist with filling out the surveys themselves.
Do we need strategic guidance on technology investment, or strategic guidance on security investments?
Some providers help you plan long-term IT strategies aligned with business growth, while others focus solely on break/fix services. Some providers do not include strategic guidance and Virtual Chief Information Security Officer services. Consider whether you want a partner who can advise on CapEx/OpEx decisions, infrastructure planning, and tech modernization.
How well do potential providers coordinate between IT operations and security teams?
A disconnect between your MSP and MSSP can lead to delays, finger-pointing, or missed issues. Often behavior that generates alerts are related to intentional technology changes by your MSP or IT Department. It is important that these teams work closely together or false alarms will be generated and resources will be wasted researching non-events. If you’re using separate vendors, ask about their coordination processes—or look for a provider who offers both services in-house with aligned teams.
What tools and platforms do they use, and how do those integrate with our existing systems?
Incompatible systems can lead to inefficiencies, gaps in protection, or added costs. Make sure your potential provider uses tools that integrate with your current infrastructure, and that they can support your specific technology stack effectively.
Deciding Factors: MSP vs. MSSP—Which One Do You Need?
Choosing between a Managed Service Provider (MSP) and a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) isn’t just about IT preferences—it’s about aligning your choice with your business’s specific needs, risks, and goals.
Here are key factors to consider when deciding between MSP vs MSSP:
Factor
MSP (Managed Service Provider)
MSSP (Managed Security Service Provider)
Business Priorities
Day-to-day IT operations, uptime, user support, hardware/software management
Cybersecurity risk reduction, incident response, and threat intelligence
Compliance Needs
Basic IT compliance (e.g., patching, backups)
Support for regulated industries (HIPAA, FINRA, SEC, FedRAMP, CMMC, PCI-DSS, etc.)
IT Complexity
Ideal for businesses without in-house IT
Complements internal IT with specialized security expertise
Budget Considerations
Predictable monthly support costs for infrastructure and support
Higher cost, but critical for avoiding breach-related losses
Threat Environment
Suitable for low to moderate risk environments
Essential for high-risk industries or those with a history of breaches
CNETS Insight: Why Many Small to Medium Sized Businesses Choose a Single Trusted Provider for IT and Security
For many small and mid-sized businesses, managing separate providers for IT operations and cybersecurity just isn’t practical. Budget constraints, limited internal resources, and the need for fast, cohesive support often make working with multiple vendors a challenge.
That’s why Certified NETS offers both managed IT and managed security services—delivered by specialized teams under one roof. We don’t treat security as an afterthought. Instead, we provide dedicated cybersecurity services alongside our core IT support, ensuring that your systems are not only efficient, but also resilient against evolving threats.
By partnering with one trusted provider for both, you get faster answers, less confusion, and a technology environment that works together—without compromise.
Ready to Choose the Right IT Partner?
Understanding the differences between an MSP and MSSP is the first step—choosing a partner who can truly support your business goals is next.
At Certified NETS, we don’t just manage your technology—we protect it. Whether you're looking for proactive IT support, advanced cybersecurity services, or both, our integrated approach ensures you're covered from all angles.
Contact us today for a free consultation or to learn more about our Certified Care IT and embedded security services.
Robyn Howes is the President and visionary leader of Certified NETS, where she combines decades of experience in IT strategy, cybersecurity, and operations with a passion for building lasting client relationships. Named to CRN’s Women of the Channel Power Solution Provider list multiple times, Robyn leads with both innovation and integrity—bringing strategic focus and real-world expertise to every engagement. Read Robyn’s full bio »
