The traditional model of in-house security is under strain. Faced with an ever-expanding attack surface, a relentless barrage of threats, and a persistent shortage of strategic skills, organisations are increasingly turning to Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) for support. Our research shows that three-quarters of businesses now use an MSSP, and more than half plan to increase their reliance on them.

But are they getting the most out of these relationships?

The primary drivers for engaging an MSSP are clear: 59% want access to 24/7 coverage, 51% need specialist expertise, and 49% are looking to plug internal skills gaps. These are all valid, tactical reasons. But in a world where cybersecurity is a fundamental driver of business success, a purely tactical, transactional relationship is no longer enough.

It's time to think beyond the silo and demand more from your security partner.

The Myth of the "Us vs. Them" Mentality

For too long, the relationship between organisations and their MSSPs has been defined by a clear line in the sand. The MSSP handles the operational noise—the alerts, the monitoring, the patching—while the in-house team focuses on "strategy". This siloed approach is inefficient and, ultimately, ineffective.

True resilience comes from integration, not delegation. A strategic security partner doesn't just manage your alerts; they understand your business. They know your risk appetite, your compliance obligations, and your growth ambitions. They work as an extension of your team, providing not just technical support but proactive, strategic guidance.

The benefits are tangible. Our research found that organisations working with MSSPs report significant improvements in resilience (79%), visibility (77%), and compliance outcomes (72%). This is what happens when you move from a service provider to a strategic partner.

What to Demand from Your Strategic Security Partner

How can you tell if your MSSP is a true strategic partner? Here are a few things to look for:

• Business-First Approach: Do they speak the language of business risk, or are they lost in technical jargon? A strategic partner can translate security metrics into business impact, helping you make informed decisions that align with your overall objectives.
• Proactive, Not Reactive: Do they wait for you to ask, or do they bring new ideas to the table? A strategic partner is constantly looking for ways to improve your security posture, from recommending new technologies to suggesting changes to your governance framework.
• Integrated and Collaborative: Do they operate as a black box, or are they an open book? A strategic partner provides clear visibility into their operations and works collaboratively with your in-house team to share knowledge and build capability.
• Focus on the Future: Are they just focused on today's threats, or are they helping you prepare for tomorrow's? A strategic partner understands the evolving threat landscape and helps you build a security strategy that is fit for the future.

The age of the siloed security function is over. In today's interconnected world, the only way to build true resilience is through deep, strategic partnerships. Don't settle for a service provider. Demand a partner who will help you not just secure your business, but accelerate it.