What Are Pros and Cons of Outsourcing Cybersecurity?

For any team that uses a computer network to operate, cybersecurity services are essential for protecting private information, from passwords to sensitive documents. As teams expand into larger networks and handle more sensitive information, having quality cybersecurity systems becomes more important.

It can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to setting up your cybersecurity practices. Businesses have two main options for handling their cybersecurity needs—setting up an internal team or outsourcing computer security to a third-party firm. Working with a specialized cybersecurity provider is an affordable way for teams to access the services they need without a significant upfront investment. When deciding if cybersecurity outsourcing is right for your team, consider your business’s specific needs and goals.

How Does Cybersecurity Outsourcing Work?

Cybersecurity outsourcing involves one company hiring another to ensure that its data is secure. Third-party providers help their clients prevent cyber attacks and secure their networks from threats. Outsourcing can include different kinds of security services, including:

• Network monitoring
• Virus prevention
• User authentication
• Encryption
• Mobile device management
• General tech support

When working with a third-party managed services provider, companies may undergo an assessment to discover what types of services they need. They can then collaborate with the service provider to create a custom suite of cybersecurity tools and services. This allows businesses to gain access to essential IT security support without having to hire full-time employees.

Benefits of Outsourcing Cybersecurity

Recruiting cybersecurity talent can be hard. Cybersecurity service providers can provide convenient, comprehensive support for any size of business. If you’re considering outsourcing your cybersecurity services, here are some of the main advantages you can enjoy.

Affordable Services

Some businesses may avoid establishing an in-house cybersecurity team due to the costs. Software, tech tools, and recruiting and paying employees can quickly add up. Third-party cybersecurity businesses provide the infrastructure for you, so you can factor cybersecurity costs into your monthly budget instead of having to invest in an entire in-house team. Because cybersecurity companies specialize in these services and work with a range of clients, outsourced cybersecurity services are often more affordable and accessible to small businesses.

Specialized Knowledge

Outsourcing your security needs gives you access to input from experts in the field. By working with a company that specializes in security, you can trust that you’re getting quality, informed service. Team members at cybersecurity firms can provide thoughtful insights based on their industry experience. They also have access to more advanced tools and up-to-date strategies for addressing evolving security threats.

Increased Efficiency

When team members try to manage cybersecurity internally, they may get distracted from their primary duties. By hiring another company to handle your security needs, you can focus more on your team’s core operations. This allows everyone at the company to put their time, effort, and budget into their top priorities. With each team member focusing on their area of expertise, they can become more efficient and productive.

24/7 Support

Many cybersecurity providers offer round-the-clock monitoring and support. Their larger teams can oversee your IT systems even when the rest of your team is away from the office. They can detect suspicious activity and immediately respond to any threats they notice, limiting the impact of any security issues that do occur.

Prompt Rollout

While it takes time to build an internal cybersecurity team, third-party providers already have the tools and staff to provide comprehensive IT support. Once you sign up for their services, you can start using them right away. If you have a prompt security issue that needs to be addressed, outsourcing can be a time-sensitive solution.

Simplified Compliance

Several regulatory agencies oversee information security, and keeping up with their compliance rules can be a complicated process. Cybersecurity firms are well-versed in regulations for IT and security processes. They can manage any documentation and paperwork on your behalf, upholding your compliance with the law and helping you avoid complex administrative duties. Because the service provider manages your IT compliance, your team takes on less risk for any breaches or mistakes.

Drawbacks of Outsourcing Cybersecurity

While cybersecurity providers can be a comprehensive, accessible solution for many businesses, there are some potential challenges.

Less Control

By having another company take over your cybersecurity processes, you have less control over your data. Service providers have their own methods for keeping networks secure, and they’ll make their own decisions about how to address threats. Typically, cybersecurity firms have extensive confidentiality agreements to reassure their clients about sharing access to their sensitive information and IT systems.

Inconsistent Turnaround

Cybersecurity companies have multiple clients, so you may not be able to guarantee a consistent turnaround. They may have a security emergency with another client that prevents them from responding promptly to your issues.

Limited Organizational Knowledge

When outsourcing cybersecurity services, you typically receive standardized solutions that they provide to all of their clients. The service provider may not have a detailed understanding of your organization and its needs—as a result, the solutions may be less personalized compared to those from an in-house team. It’s important to work closely with your service provider to give them a full picture of what kind of security support you need.

When to Outsource Cybersecurity

A business may decide in many situations to outsource its cybersecurity needs. Here are a few examples of when outsourcing may be the best option for your team:

• Addressing a threat: If a team discovers a major cybersecurity threat, responding quickly is important. Working with an established cybersecurity firm can allow them to quickly roll out a solution.
• Supporting small teams: Many small businesses may not have the budget to hire a full-time cybersecurity professional, let alone a whole team. Outsourcing can give small teams an affordable way to access essential services.
• Upgrading systems: If a company has outdated processes and services to update, outsourcing its cybersecurity department can give it access to the most up-to-date systems.

Whether you use an in-house team or a managed services provider, cybersecurity is a priority for any modern business. By carefully assessing security needs, budget, and IT infrastructure, company leadership can find a quality outsourced cybersecurity solution. We can help.