In the context of the current cyber threat landscape, it is vital for companies to have adequate security measures in place. However, maintaining a whole security operations center (SOC) in-house is impossible for most. And with the shortage of skilled security experts, even companies that can afford to hire them, have trouble attracting and retaining them.
Managed security services, such as our own Managed Extended Detection & Response (MXDR) are a common solution to this challenge. These third-party services are increasingly popular, as they provide the required level of security without the need to hire security staff.
Over the last several years a great variety of such third-party security services have appeared on the market. As a result, companies that are looking for the most appropriate solution are frequently overwhelmed due to the many options they are being offered.
In this blog post, we will examine the benefits provided by a managed extended detection and response (MXDR) system and compare how this service differs from other cybersecurity services currently in use. If you want to know more about how MXDR works, the capabilities it offers, and what kind of business challenges it solves, see our blog post.
What are the most popular types of cybersecurity services available?
1. Managed detection and response (MDR)
Managed detection and response (MDR) has become an umbrella term that covers a host of solutions that differ in their scope and depth. And since there isn’t an industry-wide consensus on how to frame and describe these solutions that makes it difficult for businesses to distinguish between them at a glance.
That said, MDR usually denotes those third-party solutions that offer 24/7 network monitoring, incident detection, investigation, and response. MDR can be entirely automated, though many MDR offerings include a mix of human and technological input.
When you hear MDR, the least you can expect to be offered is:
Around the clock proactive monitoring and detection – threats are actively hunted and spotted before they turn into attacks
- Threat intelligence and preparedness – information about new threats and vulnerabilities is analyzed and becomes part of both the threat hunting and response strategies
- Threat and attack response – any threats or ongoing attacks are addressed via automated or human responses such as malware removal, patching, and more
On top of the above, the different solutions on the market will usually offer additional capabilities or focus on specific cybersecurity areas such as networks, endpoints, and more. Below are the most popular types of MDR solutions, as well as competitive solutions such as MSSP, and managed SIEM.
Managed endpoint detection and response (MEDR)
MEDR systems are used to monitor and record behaviors and occurrences on endpoints. These are run through an automated rule-based system that analyzes them. These days, machine learning algorithms play an important part in this process. If a threat is detected, the system notifies the service provider’s security team which takes measures to address the threat.
Managed network detection and response (MNDR)
MNDR focuses on networks instead of endpoints with the aim of actively hunting threats against network infrastructure. This includes servers, routers, firewalls, and more. As with all MDR systems, this one also offers automation, along with expert human backup and intelligence.
Managed extended detection and response (MXDR)
MXDR is a next-generation solution that is capable of casting a wider security net, correlating threats across endpoints and infrastructure, and validating incidents in real-time. It provides a combination of both endpoint and network detection and response capabilities and beyond.
Response and remediation are automated but backed by direct support and intelligence by the service provider. Moreover, MXDR frequently also provides in-depth threat forensics capabilities that help track down the source of attacks.
2. Managed security service provider (MSSP)
MSSPs were one of the first managed security solutions that were available on the market. While they have expanded and developed over time, their scope and capabilities differ from those offered by MDR systems. These systems provide organizations with outsourced cybersecurity expertise and skills. This can include a wide range of services, including network monitoring, incident response, vulnerability management, and more.
However, MSSPs are largely considered as complementary to in-house security operations, and not as a complete solution. They usually do not respond to threats but instead, alleviate the burdens associated with monitoring and assessing alerts. Threat response must therefore either be part of in-house capabilities or must be provided by other service providers.
3. Managed security information and event management (SIEM)
Managed SIEM solutions are another class of security solutions that are available to organizations. These solutions offer capabilities of aggregating and correlating events from a variety of sources, including networks, applications, databases, and more. They frequently also offer alert and dashboard capabilities, along with forensic analysis – all of which help make sense of threat-related data.
Yet, for organizations that are looking for a complete solution, managed SIEM may not be right. Threat response and remediation are usually not part of the service, and organizations require in-house expertise and capabilities to make the most of it.
What are the benefits of using MXDR?
MDR solutions offer a complete and comprehensive approach to organizations’ cybersecurity that delivers immediate value with low investment. Thanks to the combination of automation and human expertise, MDR solutions are significantly more accessible and can cater to a great variety of cybersecurity needs.
Of all MDR solutions, managed extended detection and response (MXDR) offers the most complex and diverse set of tools and extends protection over a greater attack surface – i.e. endpoints, networks, but also IoT devices, operational technology networks, and more.
Specifically, the benefits provided by MXDR include:
- Strengthens your organization’s security posture by covering the whole digital ecosystem, a must in the context of increased remote work
- Functions both as a standalone solution as well as support for your in-house security capabilities
- Adapts to and leverages existing security infrastructure and solutions
- Help prioritize threats based on AI as well as human expertise
- Is cost-effective and offers quick time-to-value
- Covers regulatory security compliance requirements
- Provides a complete set of capabilities including monitoring, detection, response, threat hunting, and more
Cover your cybersecurity needs with Amatas MXDR
As cybersecurity needs increase and become more complex, organizations are called to take measures that will help them protect themselves effectively.
If you are looking for a cybersecurity solution, Amatas can be your trusted partner and support in this process. Our in-house expertise and exhaustive capabilities of our MXDR solution can provide you with the security that you require, free up your in-house capabilities, and give you the peace of mind that your company is well protected.
Want to know more about how MXDR can work for you? Get in touch and let’s discuss your cybersecurity requirements!
