As an MSP, there are numerous tools that you need in your toolbox to provide your clients with the best possible managed IT services. The Cyberhoot website recently outlined the top 10 tools they recommend for MSPs and SMBs.
However, this list is missing some important tools that should be included. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the tools that were not mentioned but are critical for MSPs to have.
Introduction
We all want smooth running Managed IT services that are well secured. This blog post outlines the Top 10 tools I see in the MSPs and SMBs I support. However, I know there are things missing from this top 10 List – for example, vulnerability scanning and Cyber Insurance – two very important tools/protections. What else did I miss? Are there more important things? What do you think?
Managed Detection and Response (MDR)
One of the most critical tools for MSPs that are missing from the Cyberhoot list is Managed Detection and Response (MDR). MDR goes beyond endpoint protection and helps identify the initial stages of an attack. With MDR, you can identify and correlate different events to recognize malicious behavior, so you can stop it early on before it spreads in the environment. Cyber Insurance companies now ask for this protection, highlighting its importance.
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
Another important tool missing from the Cyberhoot list is Security Information and Event Management (SIEM). SIEM gathers all system-level log information across your organization’s IT infrastructure, so it can be analyzed to detect and respond to any cyber threats or attacks. SIEM is crucial to monitor your entire IT infrastructure and responding proactively to any potential security incidents.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA is a security feature that requires users to authenticate their identity using multiple forms of verification. Mark Veldhoff from Envizion IT highlights that MFA is essential for MSPs to protect against unauthorized access to sensitive data or accounts. Tools such as Duo or Microsoft Authenticator provide MFA features to enhance security.
Offline Backups
Offline backups are another essential tool that MSPs should include in their toolkit. Datto and Azure are two tools that provide backup solutions that prevent admins from deleting backups, which is critical to protecting your data. If your admin account is compromised, the threat actor can delete your backups before encrypting your production data, leaving you no option but to pay the ransom.
Device Encryption and Active Device Tracking and Protection
Jeremy Kushner from BACS Consulting Group recommends including device encryption and active device tracking and protection in your security stack. Device encryption tools such as BitDefender protect against data theft, while active device tracking and protection tools such as Prey Project help track lost or stolen devices and prevent unauthorized access.
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Ashutosh Singhal with Orion Networks points out that Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is another important tool missing from the Cyberhoot list. EDR helps identify and respond to advanced threats and malware that traditional anti-virus software cannot detect. With EDR, you can detect, investigate, and respond to security incidents on endpoints quickly.
Patch Management
Patch management tools are essential to keep your software up-to-date and secure. Keeping your software updated with the latest security patches is critical to preventing cyberattacks. Tools such as SolarWinds Patch Manager or ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus can help automate patch management, making it easier for MSPs to keep their clients’ systems up to date.
Vulnerability Scanning
Vulnerability scanning can also help MSPs maintain compliance with industry regulations and standards. Regular vulnerability scans can help MSPs identify compliance gaps and address them before audits or assessments. Additionally, vulnerability scanning can help MSPs prioritize their security efforts and allocate resources effectively. With vulnerability scanning, MSPs can identify potential vulnerabilities and take proactive measures to protect their clients’ systems and data.
Firewall Protection
Firewall protection is another essential tool for MSPs. Firewalls provide a layer of security that helps prevent unauthorized access to a client’s network. They can filter out potentially harmful traffic and provide protection against various cyberattacks. Tools such as SonicWall or Fortinet are popular choices for MSPs.
Web Content Filtering
Web content filtering is another important tool that MSPs should consider. It helps protect clients from web-based threats, such as malware, phishing attacks, and other malicious content. Web content filtering tools such as Webroot or Sophos can help prevent users from accessing websites that could potentially harm their devices or network.
Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
Data loss prevention is a critical tool for MSPs to have in their toolbox. DLP helps prevent the loss or theft of sensitive information, such as credit card information, intellectual property, and other confidential data. DLP tools such as Symantec or McAfee can help MSPs monitor and prevent the unauthorized use or transfer of sensitive data.
Cloud Security
Cloud security is a rapidly growing concern for MSPs, as more businesses move their data to the cloud. MSPs need to ensure that their client’s data is secure and protected from cyber threats. Cloud security tools such as Microsoft Azure Security Center or Amazon Web Services (AWS) Security Hub can help MSPs protect their client’s data in the cloud.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Cyberhoot website outlines ten essential tools that MSPs should have in their toolbox, there are many other critical tools that should be included. MDR, SIEM, MFA, offline backups, device encryption and tracking, EDR, patch management, vulnerability scanning, firewall protection, web content filtering, DLP, and cloud security are all crucial tools that MSPs need to provide top-notch managed IT services to their clients.
FAQs
- What is Managed Detection and Response (MDR), and why is it essential for MSPs?
- What is Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), and why is it critical for MSPs?
- What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and why should MSPs include it in their security stack?
- Why are offline backups critical for MSPs to have in their toolkit?
- What is Cloud Security, and why is it important for MSPs to protect their client’s data in the cloud?
