Organizations all over Europe, especially those that fall under the NIS2 directive, are under more and more pressure to protect their digital infrastructure from attacks that are getting more and more advanced. These threats aren’t just problems with technology; they’re also risks to the business as a whole.
Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) are very important at this point. MSSPs are more than just vendors; they are dedicated cybersecurity partners who help you quickly recover from cyber attacks and stop them from happening again.
MSSPs offer the technology, knowledge, and 24/7 monitoring you need to stay safe, whether you run a small business with few internal resources or a large company with complicated regulatory requirements.
What You Need to Know About MSSPs (Managed Security Service Providers)
What is an MSSP?
A Managed Security Service Provider is an outside cybersecurity expert that provides ongoing security services like finding threats, responding to incidents, and managing vulnerabilities. MSSPs are like your Security Operations Center (SOC) that you hire someone else to run.
MSSPs and MSPs
MSSPs vs. SOCs In-House
It costs a lot of money and takes a lot of resources to build an in-house SOC. MSSPs provide:
- Expertise right away
- Solutions that can grow
- Faster time to safety
The Growing Threat Landscape
Cyber threats have changed. Attackers are going after European businesses more aggressively, using everything from ransomware to advanced persistent threats (APTs).
Common Threats
- Ransomware: Locks up your data until you pay a ransom.
- Supply Chain Attacks: Attack third-party vendors to get into your systems.
- Phishing and Social Engineering: Tricks employees into giving private information.
- DDoS Attacks: Overload your network and stop services from working.
SMEs Are Weak
Small and medium-sized businesses often lack the tools to find and deal with problems quickly—this is where MSSPs are crucial.
Threat Intelligence Is Important
MSSPs use global threat intelligence and Threat Intelligence Platforms (TIPs) to detect attacks before they escalate.
Why MSSPs Are Important for Recovering from Cyber Attacks
Every second counts when there’s a breach. MSSPs offer:
Immediate Response to Incidents
- Isolate systems that are affected
- Stop lateral movement
- Prevent data exfiltration
Root Cause Analysis and Forensics
- Find out how the breach happened
- Preserve digital evidence
- Identify compromised assets
Restoration and Keeping the Business Going
- Recover data from secure backups
- Assist with disaster recovery plans
- Ensure compliance with reporting requirements
Important MSSP Services That Help Recovery
SOC as a Service (SOCaaS)
Your command center for monitoring, detecting, and escalating 24/7.
Managed Detection and Response (MDR)
Real-time threat identification and automated containment.
Extended Detection and Response (XDR)
Unified security across endpoints, networks, and cloud.
Retainers for Incident Response
Pre-arranged contracts ensuring immediate breach support.
Threat Hunting
Behavioral analytics and expert-led active threat hunting.
Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR)
In-depth investigation and post-attack recovery.
MSSPs for Proactive Prevention
It’s always cheaper to prevent than to recover. MSSPs help you:
- Regularly scan for vulnerabilities
- Identify and fix weaknesses proactively
- Conduct Penetration Testing
- Deploy Advanced Firewalls and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
- Implement Zero Trust Architecture
- Train employees on security awareness
The NIS2 Directive: How MSSPs Can Help You Follow the Rules
Know What You Have to Do
- Identify if your business is covered by NIS2
- Understand technical and organizational requirements
Do Risk Assessments
- Conduct assessments aligned with NIS2 standards
- Ensure written plans for risk reduction
Make the Supply Chain Safer
- Evaluate third-party vendors
- Enable continuous monitoring of supply chain threats
Automate Audit Trails and Reporting
- Maintain logs to ensure compliance
- Generate real-time dashboards and reports using SIEM systems
Advantages of Working with a Trusted MSSP
Monitoring 24/7
Cyber threats don’t follow office hours—MSSPs provide continuous coverage with technologies like UEBA and SOAR.
Affordable Security
- Reduce CapEx of internal security teams
- Benefit from predictable OpEx pricing models
Aligning Cyber Insurance
MSSPs help you meet insurance requirements and lower premiums.
Business Continuity and SLAs
- Guaranteed response times
- Established escalation processes
How to Choose the Best MSSP for Your Business
What to Look For
- Industry certifications like ISO 27001, SOC 2, and GDPR compliance
- Proven incident response capabilities
- EU presence and regulatory familiarity
Things to Ask
- How quickly do you respond on average?
- Are you aligned with NIS2 and GDPR compliance?
- How do you handle customer data?
Warning Signs
- Vague contracts or missing SLAs
- No real-time reporting
- Unrealistic guarantees
How Wyrdex Helped a Medium-Sized Manufacturer Get Back on Its Feet
Background
A Norwegian manufacturing company was hit by ransomware that locked all systems.
Response from MSSP
- Wyrdex quickly isolated infected systems
- Performed forensics and recovered data
- Helped the company meet NIS2 reporting deadlines
Result
- Systems restored in under 48 hours
- No ransom was paid
- Long-term cybersecurity posture significantly improved
MSSPs: Making Your Business Future-Proof
Building Cyber Resilience
MSSPs not only respond to threats but also prepare your business for future risks.
Embracing AI and Automation
Modern MSSPs use:
- Machine learning for anomaly detection
- Automated playbooks for rapid incident response using SOAR tools
Integrating MSSPs with Business Continuity
A reliable MSSP is a key pillar of your BCP/DR strategy, ensuring smooth operations.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Cyber attacks will happen, but you don’t have to be unprepared. With increasing regulations and growing threats, now is the time to strengthen your defenses.
Wyrdex supports companies across Europe in achieving NIS2 compliance, recovering from attacks, and proactively securing their future with advanced Managed Security Services.
Are you ready to protect your future?
Check your NIS2 readiness today at www.wyrdex.com or schedule a free consultation.