Managed and co-managed IT involves a third-party company assisting your organization with its technology needs, and it can bring significant benefits to your business. Together, the two platforms help countless Philadelphia enterprises manage their ongoing daily tasks like help desk responsibilities and general technology support. Managed services are especially suitable for addressing increasingly complex cybersecurity concerns.
In the current threat environment, cybersecurity challenges can assume various forms, including ransomware, phishing attacks, and malware attacks. Both managed and co-managed IT offer prompt and accurate solutions to several grave security challenges while safeguarding your company’s valuable data. This article highlights some of the perks of utilizing managed and co-managed IT for cybersecurity in the Philadelphia area, where businesses can readily take advantage of either option.
Where Do Data Breaches Typically Start?
Most data breaches tend to occur after a threat actor gains unauthorized access to your systems. Whether it’s from an external attacker targeting specific organizations or individuals, or from insiders within an organization, leaky access points are usually the main culprit.
Cybercriminals know how to exploit common vulnerabilities in an organization’s infrastructure or target unwitting individuals within your business. Most intrusions usually start with a tailored cyberattack on a key team member inside your organization the criminal identifies on either your company website or a professional networking page like Linkedin.
While new, sophisticated threats emerge daily, especially in light of recent AI technologies, here are a few of the most common types of cyberattacks to be aware of:
Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks
Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks are deliberate attempts to disrupt an organization’s network or website by overwhelming it with a flood of fake requests. This type of incursion renders the system unavailable to legitimate users, potentially causing significant damage or financial losses.
Insider Attacks
Insider attacks are another common source of data breaches caused by employees who intentionally leak information to third parties. These malicious insiders already have access to sensitive data and may exploit it for personal gain or to harm the organization or its stakeholders. They might sell financial details, client lists, or other high-value information to competitors or hackers.
Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks involve cybercriminals using social engineering to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information such as credit card details, login credentials, or personal data. These attacks often masquerade as trustworthy emails or text messages, containing malicious links or redirecting users to spoofed websites.
Malware Attacks
Malware attacks occur when attackers socially engineer the intended target into downloading malicious attachments, clicking on harmful links, or visiting compromised websites. These actions enable the injection of malware onto the user’s device, which can result in credential theft, unauthorized access, or other malicious activities.
How Do Managed and Co-Managed IT Services Prevent Breaches?
While an in-house IT team is valuable for safeguarding your company against cyberattacks, they often have competing priorities and limited resources. Attempting to oversee all aspects of IT simultaneously can become overwhelming, prompting many companies to outsource certain IT services to third-party providers.
Many Philadelphia-managed IT service providers specialize in specific areas of IT, such as cybersecurity, and can play a crucial role in protecting your data. In the following sections, we’ll examine the significant contribution of managed IT services in fortifying your data against the ever-evolving threat landscape. We’ll also explore how co-managed IT services offer a strategic partnership model where a third-party provider collaborates with your internal IT team to deliver comprehensive IT support and enhanced cybersecurity services.
Up-to-Date Software Solutions for Enhanced Cybersecurity
Managed and co-managed IT services offer more than just cybersecurity assistance. They also provide access to the latest software solutions to ensure optimal protection for your company. With hackers constantly seeking vulnerabilities in cybersecurity software, a proactive approach is crucial. Managed services guarantee that your security tactics and antivirus software are regularly updated and closely monitored to stay ahead of potential threats.
Continuous Monitoring and Support for Uninterrupted Operations
Managed IT services offer around-the-clock monitoring and support, providing an extra layer of security. The constant oversight from the co-managed IT team keeps your infrastructure, data, networks, and key software like Microsoft Office 365 protected. While your internal IT team focuses on day-to-day operations, outsourced IT experts remain dedicated to promptly addressing any potential issues, minimizing downtime, and thwarting cyber attacks.
Expert Training to Empower Your Staff Against Cyber Threats
While not everyone on your staff may be a cybersecurity expert, equipping them with the knowledge to identify and handle potential threats is vital. Managed services often include comprehensive end-user training that educates employees about common cybersecurity challenges, such as phishing attacks. By providing ongoing training, your external IT team ensures that your staff remains vigilant against security risks, creating a more robust line of defense for your company.
Effective Disaster Recovery Planning as a Safeguard
Preparing for a cyber-attack is not a matter of if but when for most businesses. According to IBM, small businesses with fewer than 500 employees face an average loss of over $2.5 million from data breaches. However, implementing a robust disaster recovery plan can help mitigate potential damages.
Third-party IT services provide immediate expertise in developing and executing an incident response plan, which includes regular compliance measures, consistently updated security standards, and training for employees on how to respond in the event of a successful attack. After partnering with a managed services provider, you’ll find yourself better equipped to handle the financial and operational impacts of an unexpected IT catastrophe.
Around-the-Clock Cyber Protection in Philadelphia
With a dedicated focus on cybersecurity, our services offer the most current software solutions, 24/7/365 monitoring and support, expert cybersecurity training, and comprehensive disaster recovery planning. When you partner with PCH Technologies, you’re guaranteed the highest level of cybersecurity protection. When an unexpected data breach hits, it’s already too late, so you can’t afford to put off your cyber defense strategies.
For an initial consultation, call us today at (856) 754-7500 or book your free discovery call online. PCH Technologies is ready to show you how to strengthen your cybersecurity defenses and secure your company’s future.