5 Key Factors for Selecting a Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Provider

With an increasing number of threats and vulnerabilities to contend with, businesses need all the help they can get to keep their networks and data safe. That’s where managed detection and response (MDR) providers come in. MDR is a type of security service that proactively monitors alerts from your security systems and provides rapid response in the event of an attack.

In this article, we’ll discuss five things to look for when selecting an MDR provider so that you can be sure you’re getting the best possible service for your business.

What is Managed Detection and Response?

MDR is a type of security service that provides continuous monitoring and detection of threats by expert analysts, as well as incident response services.

MDR providers use a variety of methods to detect and investigate threats, including endpoint security systems (EDR or EPP), security information and event management (SIEM) systems, and other tools. They often have access to threat intelligence databases that help them to identify new threats as they emerge.

MDR providers typically offer 24/7 monitoring and support, so you can be sure that your company’s security has constant “eyes-on-glass.”

Overall, MDR is a valuable security service that can offload a lot of grunt work from your internal security team, helping you to focus on real incidents instead of false positives, and help to protect your company from a wide range of threats.

When choosing an MDR provider, it is important to consider the size of your company and your budget. MDR providers typically charge a monthly fee based on the number of users or devices covered. Some providers also offer discounts for companies that sign long-term contracts. Some providers also offer threat hunting services. But there are also some red flags that would make you want to replace your current MDR provider and consider new options that would meet your needs better.

5 Key Factors to Select the Best MDR Provider for Your Business

There are a few things to look for when selecting an MDR provider that’s right for you.

1. First, you want to make sure that the provider has deep experience in detecting and responding to threats. The provider should also have a good understanding of your specific industry and business needs. You want to make sure that the provider has a team of experienced security analysts. The team should be able to investigate threats and provide recommendations on how to mitigate them.
2. Second, you want to make sure that the provider can integrate with your existing security ecosystem.  Many companies, rightfully so, do not want to install additional agents.  The MDR provider should at least be able to integrate with your endpoint security solution (EDR/EPP) or SOAR in order to respond quickly and effectively.
3. Third, you want to make sure that the provider offers a fast response in the service-level agreement that meets your requirements.  A good benchmark would be 2 hours or less for triage and up to 4 hours to remediate a true-positive alert.
4. Fourth, you want to make sure that the provider has a good reputation. You can check out online reviews and see what other customers have said about the provider.  G2 is a great platform to compare different services.
5. Finally, you want to make sure that the provider offers competitive pricing. MDR services can be expensive, so you want to make sure that you are getting value for your money.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can narrow down your options and select an MDR provider that is right for your business needs.

The benefits of MDR

There are many benefits to using a Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service. MDR providers can help you to improve your security posture and reduce your risk of being breached.

MDR services can provide you with 24/7 monitoring of your security systems and devices. This means that you can be alerted to potential threats as soon as they occur, and can take action to mitigate them.

MDR providers also have access to a team of security experts who can investigate potential threats and help you to resolve them. This can save you a lot of time and effort, and can help to ensure that your systems are secure.

Overall, MDR services can provide you with a comprehensive security solution that can help you to protect your data and systems from attack.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a Managed Detection and Response (MDR) provider, there are five key factors that you should keep in mind: detection & response capabilities; connectivity with your existing security ecosystem; good SLA and customer service; good reputation; and competitive pricing. Make sure to do your research and select a provider that can offer all three of these things in order to get the best possible protection for your business.

Looking for an MDR alternative that meets both your needs and your budget? Intezer’s technology is built to help your team automatically triage alerts, accelerate incident response, and ensure you are proactively hunting for threats in your environment.

Book a demo and let’s talk.

Itai Tevet

Once led a government CERT. Now CEO at Intezer, changing the way we investigate and respond to cybersecurity incidents.