MSP vs MSSP: What Is the Difference?
An MSP manages your IT infrastructure and support. An MSSP focuses specifically on security monitoring and response. Many UK SMEs need both capabilities — which is why providers like AMVIA combine managed IT with managed security in a single service.
Direct Answer
An MSP manages your day-to-day IT operations — helpdesk, infrastructure, devices, backups, and user support. An MSSP focuses exclusively on cybersecurity: threat monitoring, incident response, and vulnerability management. For UK SMEs, the lines are increasingly blurred. AMVIA combines both in a single service, eliminating the gaps and finger-pointing that arise when two separate providers are involved. Only 22% of UK MSPs currently perform cybersecurity-related activities.
Key Differences Between MSPs and MSSPs
Understanding the core differences helps you choose the right provider model.
MSP Focus: IT Operations
MSPs manage your IT infrastructure — servers, networks, cloud, email, devices, and user support. Their goal is keeping your technology running smoothly.
MSSP Focus: Security
MSSPs provide dedicated security monitoring, threat detection, incident response, and compliance management. They protect your business from cyber threats.
Convergence Trend
The MSP and MSSP models are converging. Forward-thinking MSPs now integrate security tools and SOC capabilities into their managed IT offering.
Cost Considerations
Using separate MSP and MSSP providers typically costs more than a single provider offering both. Integration between separate providers also creates gaps.
MSP vs MSSP: Feature Comparison
What each provider type typically delivers.
| Feature | MSP£30–£80/user/mo | MSSP£10–£30/user/mo |
|---|---|---|
| IT helpdesk and support | ||
| Infrastructure management | ||
| Backup and disaster recovery | ||
| 24/7 security monitoring | Some | |
| Incident response | Basic | |
| Vulnerability management | Some | |
| Compliance reporting | Basic | |
| Strategic IT planning |
Frequently Asked Questions
49% of UK businesses have a basic cyber security skills gap. The median salary for a UK cyber security role is £55,000, with a 12% premium over equivalent IT roles. For businesses with 10-250 staff, outsourcing typically provides broader expertise at lower total cost than hiring in-house.
Co-managed IT supplements your existing IT team with external specialist support. Your team retains control of day-to-day operations while the MSP provides expertise in areas like cybersecurity, cloud management, or after-hours coverage. This model is ideal for businesses with 50-250 staff whose IT team is stretched.
Industry standard SLAs include critical issues responded to within 1 hour, standard issues within 4 hours, and low-priority requests within 8 hours. 99.9% uptime guarantees are standard for monitored infrastructure. Always confirm whether SLAs cover response time or resolution time.
An MSP manages your IT infrastructure and support. An MSSP specialises in cybersecurity — running SOC operations, MDR, and incident response. Only 22% of UK MSPs perform cybersecurity-related activities. AMVIA combines both capabilities for a complete managed service.
Managed IT support for UK SMEs typically costs £50-£150 per user per month depending on scope. This usually covers helpdesk, monitoring, patch management, and basic security. Adding cybersecurity services increases costs but protects against average breach costs of £3,550 per incident.
Need Both IT Support and Security?
AMVIA combines managed IT and managed security in one service — no gaps, no finger-pointing between providers.
Related Questions
Managed IT Support
AMVIA's fully managed IT service for UK businesses — helpdesk, monitoring, patching, and M365 management.
How Much Does Managed Cybersecurity Cost?
Per-user pricing for managed security services — what an MSSP typically charges UK SMEs.
Cybersecurity Guide for UK SMEs
The security controls UK businesses need — and why a combined MSP/MSSP approach closes the gaps.