Managed Security Vs In-House Security: Pros and Cons

Safeguarding the organization is every owner’s priority as it involves various sensitive data. However, it’s no secret that the security industry has changed dramatically in the past decade. And in this changing landscape, it’s more important than ever to choose the right solution – one that will support you in most efficiently safeguarding your business in the long run. The choice between managed security and in-house security depends on various factors, including the size of your organization, budget, expertise, and specific security needs.

In this article, we will list the pros and cons of both managed and in-house security for you. So, be with us and know which security will better suit your organization.

Let’s proceed!

What Is Managed Security?

Managed security refers to the practice of outsourcing the management and monitoring of an organization’s security infrastructure and processes to a third-party service provider. This approach allows businesses to focus on their core operations while benefiting from the expertise and resources of specialized security professionals. Managed security services are designed to help organizations protect their data, systems, and networks from various cyber threats and security vulnerabilities.

Types of Managed Security Services

Managed Identity and Access Management (IAM)

IAM services help organizations manage user access to their systems and applications securely, ensuring only authorized individuals can access sensitive resources.

Managed Security Operations Center (SOC)

A managed SOC provides 24/7 monitoring and response to security events and incidents, often leveraging advanced technologies and a team of security experts.

Managed Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)

SIEM services collect and analyze security event data from various sources, providing real-time threat detection and incident response capabilities.

Managed Endpoint Security

This service focuses on securing individual devices (e.g., computers, smartphones, tablets) by deploying and managing antivirus software, anti-malware solutions, and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools.

Managed Email Security

Protecting email systems from phishing attacks, spam, and malware is crucial. Managed email security services include filtering, threat detection, and incident response for email-based threats.

Managed Security Compliance and Auditing

These services assist organizations in achieving and maintaining compliance with industry-specific regulations and standards by conducting audits and ensuring security policies are in place.

Managed Security Awareness Training

Education and training are essential components of a strong security posture. Managed security awareness services provide ongoing employee training to reduce the risk of human error in security incidents.

Managed Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing

Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration tests are performed to identify weaknesses in an organization’s systems and networks. Managed services help in planning, conducting, and remediating these assessments.

Managed Threat Hunting

Highly skilled security analysts actively search for signs of potential threats or compromises within an organization’s environment, providing proactive threat detection and response.

Managed Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity

These services ensure that an organization’s critical data and systems are backed up, and disaster recovery plans are in place to minimize downtime and data loss in the event of a disaster or cyberattack.

Pros Of Managed Security

a. Expertise: Managed security service providers (MSSPs) typically have a team of highly skilled experts in cybersecurity. They stay updated with the latest threats and technologies, providing a level of expertise that may be challenging for in-house teams to match.

b. Cost-Efficiency: Outsourcing security can be cost-effective, especially for small and medium-sized businesses that can’t afford a full in-house security team. MSSPs often offer subscription-based pricing, reducing capital expenditures.

c. 24/7 Monitoring: MSSPs usually provide round-the-clock monitoring, which is crucial for identifying and responding to threats in real time.

d. Scalability: It’s easier to scale up or down your security needs with an MSSP, as they can adjust their services to match your requirements.

e. Access to Advanced Tools: Managed security providers often have access to cutting-edge cybersecurity tools and technologies, which can be expensive for in-house teams to acquire and maintain.

What Is In-House Security?

In-house security refers to the practice of establishing and maintaining a dedicated team or department within a business or organization to address various security concerns and protect the company’s assets, data, employees, and operations. In-house security teams are responsible for safeguarding against a wide range of threats, including physical security, cybersecurity, and compliance with industry regulations. The specific composition of an in-house security team can vary depending on the size, industry, and needs of the organization.

Types of In-House Security Teams That Businesses Can Build

Physical Security Team

• Physical security teams focus on protecting the physical assets of a company, such as buildings, facilities, and equipment.
• Responsibilities may include access control, surveillance, alarm systems, and perimeter security.

Cybersecurity Team

• Cybersecurity teams are responsible for protecting the organization’s digital assets and data from cyber threats.
• Roles within this team may include cybersecurity analysts, incident responders, network security specialists, and ethical hackers.

Compliance and Risk Management Team

• This team ensures that the organization complies with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• They assess and manage risks related to legal, regulatory, and compliance issues.

Information Security Team

• Information security teams focus on protecting sensitive and confidential information, including data governance, encryption, and data loss prevention.
• They may also be responsible for identity and access management.

Insider Threat Team

• Insider threat teams monitor and mitigate risks posed by employees or contractors who may intentionally or unintentionally harm the organization.
• They use behavioral analytics and monitoring tools to detect unusual activities.

Fraud Prevention Team

Fraud prevention teams work to prevent and investigate fraud within the organization.
They may employ forensic accountants, fraud analysts, and fraud detection technologies.

Physical and Personnel Security Team

This team manages personnel security clearances, employee training on security policies, and physical security measures like ID badges and visitor management.

Incident Response Team

This team is responsible for reacting to security incidents, conducting investigations, and coordinating recovery efforts.

Security Operations Center (SOC)

A SOC is a centralized team responsible for monitoring and responding to security threats in real time. It often includes security analysts, incident responders, and threat hunters.

Legal and Compliance Team

This team ensures that security practices align with legal requirements and assists in legal matters related to security breaches or incidents.

The specific roles and responsibilities within these teams can vary widely depending on the organization’s size, industry, and security posture. Some organizations may combine several of these functions into one team, while larger enterprises may have separate specialized teams to address each area of concern effectively.

Pros Of In-House Security

a. Control: In-house security teams have full control over security policies, procedures, and technologies, which can be critical for organizations with specific security needs or regulatory requirements.

b. Customization: You can tailor your security program to align precisely with your organization’s unique requirements.

c. Immediate Response: In-house teams can respond immediately to security incidents without the need for third-party coordination.

Cons Of In-House Security

a. Cost: Building and maintaining an in-house security team can be expensive. This includes salaries, benefits, training, and the cost of security tools and technologies.

b. Expertise Challenges: Finding and retaining skilled cybersecurity professionals can be challenging, especially with the global shortage of cybersecurity talent.

c. Limited Resources: Smaller organizations may struggle to assemble a comprehensive in-house security team with all the necessary skills and expertise.

d. 24/7 Coverage: Providing round-the-clock monitoring and incident response can be difficult for in-house teams without significant resources.

e. Technology Costs: Acquiring and maintaining the latest cybersecurity tools and technologies can be a financial burden.

Summing Up

In summary, the choice between managed security and in-house security depends on your organization’s size, budget, expertise, and specific needs. Many organizations opt for a hybrid approach, combining the strengths of both to create a robust security posture. Ultimately, the key is to align your security strategy with your organizational goals and risk tolerance.

Ready to take your organization’s security to the next level? Sennovate is here to help you.

Sennovate provides worldwide businesses with Unified Security Operations Center (SOC) and customized Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions. Backed by global partnerships and a library of 2000+ integrations, we’ve managed 10M+ identities, 10K+ threats and offered top-tier cybersecurity that saves time and money. Enjoy seamless integration across cloud applications and an all-inclusive pricing model covering product, implementation, and support. Questions? Consultations are free. Contact us at [email protected] or call +1 (925) 918-6618. Your cybersecurity upgrade starts here.