Strategies to Finding the Right Security Partner for the Enterprise

Finding a partner that companies can trust in the area of cybersecurity can be difficult. It’s an area that many companies are still unsure about, so it’s understandable that many cybersecurity executives are reluctant to take this step.

Many companies put off looking for a partner until after they have been attacked or have received a compliance audit, putting them in a situation where they are forced to make a decision. Creating a symbiotic partnership, on the other hand, takes time – and if done correctly, will help strengthen the company’s cybersecurity posture in the short and long term.

Everyone was reminded how easily industries can be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Outsourcing cybersecurity has become the new standard, with budgets being slashed and scrutinized, and a continuing lack of qualified cybersecurity professionals. Partnering with a security vendor, such as a Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service provider, is a good way to stretch the security budget.

Having 24/7 monitoring is critical, but establishing an in-house Security Operations Center (SOC) is also complicated, time-consuming, and costly – and rarely feasible for most small to mid-size companies. Organizations are always better off focusing on their strengths and outsourcing the rest to a service provider with a team of dedicated security professionals who can help fill in the gaps.

Given the growing list of CISO challenges, which range from justifying resource requirements to displaying a team’s effectiveness, an increasing number of businesses are considering outsourcing some or all of their cybersecurity.

Also Read: Ways in Which CISOs Can Assist Their Boards Manage Cyber Risk

Finding the Right Security Partner

Businesses must determine what to look for when deciding to outsource any or all of their security needs. CISOs have some expectations from their teams and also, they can depend on them in critical circumstances. The same can be said for an outsourced cybersecurity partner; despite not being an internal member of the team, they become an extension of the team.

In order to choose the right partner, CISOs must first determine the team’s strengths and the skills that are needed. One of the best ways to make the most of a partnership is to find complementary skills. In terms of cybersecurity, look for a partner who not only has the expertise and tools to rapidly respond to security incidents, but also can guide the overall security journey.

A true partner is more focused on enhancing the company’s security results than with selling the new tools or services. Equally significant are the partner organization’s culture and values, which can be difficult to determine. Begin by obtaining references and learning about the organization’s priorities. Understanding the advantages of each security provider is crucial to choosing the right partner.

Maintaining a Successful Security Partner Relationship

The relationship would be more fruitful if the security teams collaborate closely with the security partner.

To ensure they’re protecting what matters most, the partner must have a thorough understanding of the company and its high-value properties. Organizations must learn about various cyber-attack patterns and how to better minimize risk by leveraging their partners’ expertise.

Also Read: Leveraging a Cloud Native Security Platform to Drive Modern Business

As a partner supports organizations in the development of their cybersecurity program, CISOs should be able to see meaningful progress and monitor metrics over time. Security leaders will gain trust that they are creating a more stable company and a cybersecurity community where everybody feels like they are part of the solution by delivering insightful security metrics and daily communication to the board.

Businesses who find the right security partner will be able to succeed not only tomorrow but also in the long run.