What Is a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) and Why SMBs Need One
Cybersecurity threats don’t discriminate — and neither should your IT strategy.
Small and midsize businesses (SMBs) are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals, compliance audits, and system failures. Yet many still try to patch security issues in-house or rely on outdated tools.
So what’s the alternative?
Enter the Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP).
An MSSP like Lumen21 delivers ongoing protection, visibility, and peace of mind — without the high cost of building everything in-house.
Why SMBs Choose MSSPs
24/7 Threat Monitoring
Real-time detection and response to keep your business running.
Compliance Support
Stay aligned with HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and other industry mandates.
Cost Predictability
No surprises — just secure, scalable IT protection.
If your business handles sensitive data or operates in a regulated industry, a trusted MSSP isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
7 Key Factors to Evaluate in an MSSP
- Breadth of services (network monitoring, endpoint protection, etc.)
- Industry experience (especially in healthcare, finance, or legal sectors)
- Compliance expertise (HIPAA, PCI, SOC 2, etc.)
- Scalability and integration
- Incident response planning
- Client support and transparency
- Pricing models
Real-World Scenario
Imagine a healthcare clinic hit by ransomware. With no MSSP in place, patient records go offline for 72 hours.
Now imagine the same situation with Lumen21 managing their IT security.
- The threat is isolated in minutes. Backups are restored. No data breach reported.
It’s not just about tools — it’s about being ready.
Download: SMB MSSP Evaluation Checklist
Get a free checklist to evaluate if a provider fits your needs.