Best Practices for MSP Security

There are several factors to consider before choosing a managed service provider (MSP). Managing data on the cloud requires top-level security management along with a well-defined list of daily services to remotely manage IT infrastructure and end-user systems.

A good MSP handles all of these processes for their clients without service interruptions or downtime.

 

Types of MSPs Based on Service

Small to medium business enterprises partner with MSPs that will suit their specific needs.

Here are the types of MSPs based on the services they offer.

• Monitoring service: Clients receive real-time monitoring updates on their applications, websites, servers, and network devices.
• Proactive support service: Clients receive IT maintenance services that center on preventing device or network issues.
• Remote support service: Clients get cloud-based software, remote troubleshooting for technical issues, and support for remote devices.
• Billing service: Clients get a robust billing management system to handle invoicing, budgeting, and payments.
• Scheduled maintenance service: Scheduled network maintenance is performed regularly.
• Centralized management: Clients receive a management console for remote networking, patch management, and security software.

 

How MSPs Benefit Businesses

Managed service providers (MSPs) are more prevalent than ever due to the high volume of small to medium businesses that have expanded their operations online.

Businesses are now aware of their vulnerabilities when it comes to online security—this is often their primary motivation for partnering with MSPs.

Here are some common benefits companies expect from MSPs:

• MSPs provide constant network monitoring. These 24/7 monitoring services and network monitoring tools for cloud management and system visibility are crucial for online businesses.
• MSPs improve cost-efficiency. Companies don’t have to pay for each unplanned repair or IT issue that pops up once in a while. A monthly retainer for an MSP that handles the entire IT system is more cost-effective in the long run.
• MSPs provide the expertise that businesses need. Most small businesses do not have the resources to hire personnel for all their IT infrastructure needs. An MSP gives them access to expert resources that might otherwise be unavailable.
• MSPs provide business continuity. Partnering with an MSP means businesses can recover from security breaches or other major issues that can affect their operations.
• MSPs can answer staff shortages. Companies can easily outsource important IT tasks to MSPs.
• MSPs improve security. MSP security software protects businesses from all kinds of cyber threats and security attacks.

 

Best Practices for MSP Security

MSPs can still be the targets of ransomware attacks because they are the gateway to their clients’ networks and data systems. Cyber-attackers can use compromised credentials to access the data systems of vulnerable businesses.

The US Department of Homeland Security issued a warning to MSPs and other cloud service providers about the threat of cyber-attacks on their systems. Since MSPs have access to customer data and internal infrastructure, they must ensure that security is not compromised, both for the MSP and their clients. 

The Department of Homeland Security suggested the immediate implementation of the following:

• Follow the principle of least privilege. Client data can be separated, and client networks must not be shared.
• Use a robust network and monitoring solution that recognizes malicious activity and behavior on the security infrastructure.
• Ensure that all log information enables maximum detection and focuses on monitoring account misuse.

This means that MSPs need to be vigilant when it comes to their devices and networks.

Here are the best practices to enhance MSP security and protect themselves and their clients from all forms of cyber threats.

1. Protect Remote Access Tools Against Malware

Remote access tools have become vulnerable targets due to the prevalence of remote work. MSPs need to update their remote monitoring and management (RMM) with the latest fixes, implement restrictions on their administration tools, and secure their remote desktop protocol (RDP).

2. Impose Restrictions on Network Access

Rights and permissions for clients and personnel should be limited based on their roles. MSPs should have robust password management procedures to minimize the damage when a breach occurs.

Network segmentation and whitelisting could also add to network restrictions.

3. Offer Strong Email Security

Cyber-attackers often use email to send ransomware. It’s best to use a robust email security tool to monitor and identify unusual email or account activity to boost MSP security.

 

4. Establish Internal Backup and Recovery Protocols

Robust data recovery and backup protocols are vital in MSP security. Multiple backups should be available on different local storage media or cloud-based systems. There should be at least one data backup entirely isolated from the system network.

High-end MSP security should also include the regular testing and monitoring of these backup systems.

5. Provide Security Awareness Training for Staff and Clients

Staff and clients should recognize phishing emails and suspicious network activity. Everyone using the system must know the proper protocols and observe important security practices to significantly reduce the risk of a possible cyber attack.

6. Perform Regular Security Assessments

Internal MSP security assessments can help ensure that the network can handle any emerging cyber threat.

7. Develop a Disaster Recovery Plan

MSP security service providers must have a disaster recovery plan covering their internal response and strategies to minimize damage. Backup plans to make their applications and tools available to all clients will ensure minimal business disruption.

Establishing a simple recovery plan is not enough; MSPs should test the efficacy of their plan, especially when new threats emerge. These contingency plans should protect not only the clients but the MSPs themselves.

 

MSP Security is Vital for Business Continuity

Online digital security is crucial to protect businesses and MSP security providers alike against cybercriminals. A robust internal security system must be in place for internal defense, and best practices must be followed by staff and clients alike.

Cyber-criminals always find new ways to target companies and breach security systems. Ensure your company and your MSP follow these best practices to ensure business continuity in these challenging times.