Choosing the right cybersecurity support can feel overwhelming. Should you hire a consulting firm to guide your strategy, or a managed security provider to protect your systems every day? Understanding the difference can save your business time, money, and risk.
What Cybersecurity Consulting Firms Do
Cybersecurity consulting firms focus on planning and guidance. They help businesses understand risks, develop strategies, and prepare for compliance audits. Common services include:
- Risk and vulnerability assessments
- Security program development
- Compliance readiness (CMMC, HIPAA, NIST, FERPA)
- Penetration testing and security assessments
Consulting is often project-based, providing guidance and recommendations, while monitoring and response are typically handled through managed services. Consulting works best when your organization needs strategy, compliance support, or expert guidance.
What Managed Security Providers (MSSPs) Do
Managed security providers like Vancord deliver ongoing protection. They monitor your network, detect threats, and respond in real time. Key services include:
- 24/7 managed services (MSSP services)
- Threat intelligence and alert management
- Incident response (Incident Response Services)
- Continuous vulnerability management
- SOC monitoring and SIEM management (SOC services)
An MSSP acts as an extension of your team, handling daily protection and quick response to cyberattacks.
Key Differences Between Consulting and MSSPs
| Feature | Consulting Firm | Managed Security Provider |
|---|---|---|
| Engagement Type | Project-based | Ongoing monthly service |
| Monitoring | No | Yes, 24/7 |
| Threat Detection | Limited | Continuous |
| Incident Response | Planning only | Active response |
| Best For | Strategy and compliance | Daily security and protection |
Businesses often start with consulting to plan security but realize real threats occur all the time, requiring continuous monitoring by an MSSP.
When to Consider Both Services
Combining consulting and MSSP services gives businesses a complete security approach:
- Consulting designs the right security strategy
- MSSP executes it every day to prevent attacks
- Continuous monitoring ensures risks are quickly identified
Vancord offers both services to help organizations plan, protect, and respond efficiently.
How to Decide What’s Right for Your Business
Ask yourself:
- Do we need daily protection or just guidance?
- Who responds if a cyber threat happens after hours?
- Do we have internal staff to manage security alerts?
If you need real-time monitoring, threat detection, and rapid incident response, an MSSP is essential. If you only need strategy or compliance support, a consulting firm may be enough.
Take Action Today
Don’t leave your business vulnerable. Vancord combines cybersecurity consulting and MSSP services to provide full protection.
Talk to a Vancord security expert today to find the right solution for your business.