Managed Security Services: A Solution to the Cyber Skills Shortage

Introduction 

Many organisations are concerned about the shortage of skilled cyber security professionals. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, the gap in cyber security expertise becomes increasingly problematic. Recent studies by ISC2 highlight a critical issue: the global workforce needs millions more professionals to defend against cyberattacks effectively. ISSA and Enterprise Strategy Group further reveal that 71% of cyber security professionals believe the skills gap has worsened in recent years.  

Simply put, the skills gap is a longstanding problem that continues to trouble hiring managers and shows little sign of improving. What can organisations do to ensure they have proper defences in place without sufficient in-house expertise? One proven solution is Managed Security Services (MSS). 

What are Managed Security Services (MSS)? 

Cyber security experts offer MSS solutions that help organisations monitor and manage their security. This includes overseeing security devices, systems and software applications. Organisations can outsource some or all of their IT security tasks by using external specialists, ensuring robust protection without the need for large in-house teams.  

They provide services such as network security and proactive threat detection and prevention. They can also support recovery from threats like ransomware attacks and phishing attempts. Essentially, these services enable organisations to maintain robust security measures with continuous expert support.  

6 Benefits of an MSS Provider 

Partnering with an MSS provider can significantly ease the burden of security management. You gain peace of mind with 24/7 protection from qualified experts, at a fraction of the cost of hiring in-house. This frees up time and budget to focus on driving business growth.  

Here are six key benefits of working with a cyber security partner: 

Know Your Threat Level 

Engaging a security expert allows your organisation to understand and manage its threat level effectively. These experts assess your cyber posture by identifying vulnerabilities that cybercriminals may exploit to access your systems and data. From this assessment, they create targeted action plans to address critical risks. This gives you a clear strategy to enhance your cyber resilience.  

Improved Cyber Security Posture 

With a dedicated security team, your systems and networks are monitored 24/7 for round-the-clock protection. This continuous oversight swiftly detects and prevents cyber threats. This allows your team to focus on core business activities with confidence, knowing your security is in expert hands. 

Access to Dedicated Security Experts 

Gain the advantage of dedicated security experts without the expense of hiring and training in-house staff. This support not only reduces overhead costs but also connects you with a skilled team ready to protect your assets. 

Scalability to Match Business Needs 

An MSS provider offers cyber solutions that scale effortlessly with your organisation. Resources can expand or contract based on your needs. So, if you temporarily need more capacity, the MSS provider can scale up fast. When demand decreases, you can scale back just as easily, keeping costs low and adapting to changing business conditions. 

Cost-Effective Cyber Security Solutions 

Often, the perceived high cost prevents organisations from using these services. But that’s a misconception. Partnering with an MSS provider can save your organisation significant costs in multiple areas; 

• Reduce Staffing Costs: No need to hire full-time in-house security professionals 

• Reduce Investment Costs: MSS providers distribute infrastructure costs across multiple clients, meaning you save on software, licensing and tools 

• No Unexpected Costs: Fixed agreements with security providers give you clarity on costs, preventing any surprises 

More Time to Focus on Your Business Goals 

Outsourcing security eases the demands of constant cyber management. By shifting security responsibilities, your IT staff can enhance operational efficiencies and create strategic roadmaps. This change lets organisations focus on value creation and long-term goals, free from day-to-day security concerns. 

Case Study: Bridging the Cyber Skills Shortage 

OneCollab’s partnership with a rapidly growing Private Equity firm highlights how managed security services can bridge the cyber skills gap. After acquiring a business in the Middle East, the firm struggled with limited internal IT resources and needed immediate security expertise.  

OneCollab provided a comprehensive solution that included 24/7 monitoring, a tailored cyber security suite, and access to a virtual CISO. This approach not only strengthened their security posture but also delivered 47% cost savings compared to earlier estimates. 

By partnering with a managed security service provider, the firm could focus on strategic growth without the burden of managing cyber risks.

For more insights, you can read the full case study here.  

Conclusion 

Managing cyber security in-house can be complex, especially with the shortage of skilled professionals. A trusted managed security service provider brings the necessary technology and expertise to simplify complex security needs. This frees your organisation to focus on strategic goals.  

Outsourcing security doesn’t mean losing control. Managed security service providers offer tailored response actions, allowing your organisation to maintain authority over incident escalation and responses. With regular transparent reporting, you stay informed on security developments and actions taken. 

Ultimately, choosing managed security services is a strategic decision based on your organisation’s unique needs, budget and industry. For many, MSS providers bridge the cyber skills gap, strengthening overall protection. This provides the peace of mind to drive business growth with confidence.  

Cyber Security is Complex. We Make it Simple. 

As your organisation grows, OneCollab adapts to your needs. We’re more than just a service provider. We’re your trusted partner in managing the complexities of cyber security, ensuring you are secure every step of the way.  

Here’s what we deliver: 

• Simplified Security: Streamline cyber management with reliable, easy-to-implement protection 

• Cost Efficiency: Reduce costs by eliminating the need for an in-house security team 

• Reduce Risks: Proactively identify and mitigate vulnerabilities, enhancing cyber resilience  

• Fast Implementation: Quickly enhance your security posture with our fast and effective process, ensuring maximum protection 

Ready to bridge the cyber skills gap? Contact us today and explore how our managed security services can advance your cyber strategy.