MSP vs MSSP: Why Security-First IT Services Deliver Better Business Outcomes

What is the difference between an MSP (Managed Service Provider) and MSSP (Managed Security Service Provider)?

While they may seem similar, their core focus and service models differ significantly.

What is an MSP?

A Managed Service Provider (MSP) is an outsourced IT partner responsible for managing a company’s IT infrastructure and end-user systems. MSPs typically provide:

• Network monitoring and maintenance
• Help desk support
• Software updates and patch management
• Cloud services and backups
• IT strategy and planning

MSPs are focused on operational efficiency, uptime, and productivity—but traditionally, security has been a bolt-on rather than a foundational priority.

What is an MSSP?

A Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) specializes in cybersecurity. These firms deliver services such as:

• 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC) monitoring
• Threat detection and response
• Firewall and intrusion detection system (IDS) management
• Compliance support (e.g., HIPAA, NIST, SOC 2)
• Vulnerability scanning and penetration testing

MSSPs operate with a security-first mindset, but they don’t always provide full IT management services like an MSP would.

The Problem with Choosing One Over the Other

Most growing businesses don’t just need IT support or just security—they need both, working in harmony. Separating your IT operations (MSP) from your cybersecurity oversight (MSSP) can lead to:

• Communication gaps between teams
• Delays in incident response
• Overlapping or conflicting responsibilities
• Increased costs and complexity

Why Snap Tech IT Doesn’t See It as MSP vs MSSP

At Snap Tech IT, we reject the idea that you have to choose between an MSP and an MSSP. We believe in being a security-first MSP—meaning cybersecurity is woven into every aspect of our managed services.

We don’t treat security as an afterthought. We treat it as a requirement.

Whether we’re managing your cloud infrastructure, supporting your users, or building your IT roadmap, security is built into our process. Our layered approach to protection includes:

• Proactive risk assessments
• Compliance-aligned policies
• Advanced threat detection tools
• Employee security awareness training
• Integrated monitoring across all systems

The Outcome: Better IT, Built on Security

By choosing a security-first MSP like Snap Tech IT, you get:

✅ Streamlined vendor management
✅ Lower risk of breaches and downtime
✅ Alignment with compliance requirements
✅ Predictable, strategic IT outcomes
✅ A partner who’s just as invested in protecting your business as powering it

Ready to Work with a Security-First MSP?

Snap Tech IT helps businesses in Atlanta Georgia, Phoenix Arizona, and San Francisco California, build reliable, secure, and scalable IT environments. We understand that cybersecurity isn’t a standalone service, it’s the foundation of modern IT.

Let’s talk about how we can integrate security into every corner of your business.

Schedule a call with Snap Tech IT today.