As Managed Service Providers (MSPs) continue to expand their service offerings to include cybersecurity, many turn to their Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) providers for security solutions. On the surface, this might seem like a convenient and cost-effective approach. However, relying on RMM providers for security services carries significant risks that can undermine the very protection MSPs aim to deliver to their clients. Here's why MSPs should reconsider this strategy.

1. Conflicting Priorities and Specialization

RMM providers are primarily focused on remote monitoring, patch management, and system maintenance. While these services are essential for managing client environments, they do not always align with the rapidly evolving demands of cybersecurity. Security is a specialized field that requires dedicated resources, continuous updates, and a deep understanding of threat landscapes.

By relying on an RMM provider for security, MSPs may be getting a service that is an add-on rather than a core focus. This can lead to inadequate threat detection, slower response times, and overall weaker security measures. Cybersecurity demands constant vigilance and expertise that RMM providers, who are not specialized in this area, may not be able to fully deliver.

2. Increased Attack Surface

Integrating security functions into an RMM platform can inadvertently create a larger attack surface. RMM tools themselves are often targeted by cybercriminals because they offer access to multiple client environments through a single point of entry. If a vulnerability exists in the RMM platform, it can be exploited to gain control over the entire system, including the security functions.

This risk is compounded when security tools are built into the RMM platform, as it creates a single point of failure. A breach in the RMM system could potentially compromise all security measures, leaving MSPs and their clients exposed to significant threats. Separating security functions from RMM tools ensures that if one is compromised, the other remains intact, reducing the overall risk.

3. Limited Customization and Flexibility

RMM-based security solutions often lack the flexibility needed to address the unique needs of different clients. Security is not a one-size-fits-all service; different industries and businesses require tailored solutions to address their specific risks and compliance requirements. RMM providers may offer generic security features that do not fully align with the nuanced needs of diverse client environments.

In contrast, dedicated security providers offer more customizable solutions that can be fine-tuned to meet specific client requirements. This flexibility is crucial for MSPs aiming to provide high-value, differentiated services that stand out in a competitive market.

4. Dependence on a Single Vendor

Relying on an RMM provider for both management and security services creates a dependency on a single vendor. This dependency can be risky if the provider experiences downtime, technical issues, or falls behind in delivering critical updates. It also limits the MSP's ability to adopt new technologies or switch to more advanced solutions if the RMM provider’s security offering fails to keep pace with evolving threats.

Vendor lock-in can stifle innovation and limit the MSP’s ability to respond to emerging challenges in the cybersecurity landscape. By keeping security separate from RMM, MSPs can maintain greater control over their security strategy, allowing them to adapt more quickly to new threats and technologies.

5. Potential Conflicts of Interest

When an RMM provider also delivers security solutions, there is a risk of conflicts of interest. The provider may prioritize the integration of their tools over the actual effectiveness of the security measures. This can lead to a situation where the security tools are more about convenience and less about providing comprehensive protection.

Moreover, if an MSP’s security is compromised due to a failure in the RMM provider’s solution, the provider’s primary interest may be in protecting their reputation rather than fully addressing the security breach. This conflict of interest can leave MSPs and their clients vulnerable, with inadequate support in the event of a security incident.

6. Regulatory and Compliance Challenges

Many industries are subject to strict regulatory requirements regarding cybersecurity. These regulations often demand specific security measures, documentation, and regular audits. RMM providers may not be equipped to fully support these compliance needs, especially if their security offerings are not designed with regulatory requirements in mind.

Failing to meet compliance standards can result in severe penalties for clients and damage the MSP’s reputation. Dedicated security providers are typically more knowledgeable about industry regulations and can offer solutions that are specifically designed to help businesses achieve and maintain compliance.