In the era of the growing popularity of IT outsourcing, it may be challenging to identify areas that can be outsourced and those that should be handled in-house. How about one of the most critical technical areas in 2022 – cybersecurity? Can cybersecurity be outsourced? Let’s have a look at all pros, cons and best practices.
Can cybersecurity be outsourced?
If you’re wondering whether outsourcing computer security is the right idea, we’re here to dispel your doubts. According to the Deloitte Survey 2019, 99% of organizations have already outsourced some parts of their cybersecurity operations. The most frequently outsourced areas were security operations, vulnerability management, physical security and training and awareness.
This definitely means that companies outsource cybersecurity tasks on a daily basis. Although it’s always a serious decision, it’s definitely worth considering.
Pros and cons of outsourcing computer security
Although cybersecurity outsourcing provides organizations with a number of benefits, it obviously has some drawbacks. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons.
Pros of cybersecurity outsourcing:
- Access to experts
It is estimated that there is a nearly 2.7 million position gap in the cybersecurity workforce. This means that recruiting a cybersecurity expert in-house can be more than challenging. Thanks to outsourcing, you can get access to cybersecurity experts that will be able to provide you with top-notch SIEM management and detect and respond to the majority of cyber threats.
- Savings
As hiring a cybersecurity expert is a significant cost, not all businesses can afford this expense in-house. Thanks to computer security outsourcing services, you will not need to worry about the salary of full-time staff and providing them with essential training. Outsourcing services are simply cheaper and can provide you with skilled professionals and services tailored to your specific needs.
- Access to technologies
Tools selection plays a major role in ensuring the cybersecurity of networks and infrastructure. With the help of a cybersecurity outsourcing partner, you will not need to purchase expensive software, as it will be delivered and configured by your provider. Moreover, thanks to the selection of tools and availability of staff you will benefit from 24/7 year-round monitoring and coverage which is difficult to organize in-house.
- Industry expertise
Last but not least, an experienced cyber security company has witnessed many threats, malware and attacks. By working with them you get access to industry knowledge and best practices that were collected over years. They will also use the most modern techniques and prepare documentation that complies with recent security standards.
Cons of cybersecurity outsourcing:
- Sharing sensitive data
Before outsourcing computer security, you must accept one inconvenience: your partner will get access to your network and sensitive information. This creates a number of security vulnerabilities and generates risks of losing data as a result of acts of a third party. This is why you need to cooperate with a provider that is truly trustworthy and professional.
- Less control
Obviously, outsourcing computer security makes you lose full visibility into your processes. However, this can be also perceived as an advantage. If only you trust the company you hired, you don’t need to lose your resources verifying how your processes are being handled and monitored.
Computer security outsourcing services – best practices
As we already explained the majority of the pros and cons, let’s shortly summarize how to maximize the benefits of cybersecurity outsourcing.
1. Verify your provider
First of all, your potential computer security outsourcing services must be trustworthy. High rotation, lack of complete company data and professional website are definitely red flags, especially when you’re going to work remotely. Before you kick off, verify their reviews and ask for recommendations to increase the chances of the right fit.
2. Agree on the right approach
Too generic and non-customized attitude to providing services will most probably not work out. As the cybersecurity field requires considering specific risks and requirements, make sure that the methods suggested by your technology partner are tailored to your needs.
3. Prepare the right SLA
Last but not least, make sure that everything you agreed on is included in a well-prepared Service Level Agreement – the most important document in all outsourcing services.
Following best practices will help you to maximize benefits from cybersecurity outsourcing and build fruitful, long-term cooperation with your provider.
And if you’re still searching for a recruitment partner that will assure you that your cybersecurity is in good hands, you can reach out to us and check whether our approach corresponds with your needs. You can also read more about IT contracting and IT outsourcing services in Poland.