Cybersecurity and IT services, sorted by what you need protected.

Start with the problem you need solved: an assessment or security program, 24/7 monitoring, compliance, or response to an incident already underway. Shortlist firms whose own published services match that work, ask who will actually do it and where they are based, and check references from organizations your size and in your industry.

A managed service provider (MSP) runs your day-to-day IT: devices, accounts, Microsoft 365, backups and the helpdesk. A managed security service provider (MSSP) focuses on security operations, such as monitoring alerts around the clock, managing firewalls and detection tools, and escalating threats. Many small businesses use an MSP that bundles some security, then add an MSSP, MDR or SOC as a service provider as their risk grows.

For many small firms, a good managed IT provider that enforces multi-factor authentication, patching, backups and access reviews closes most of the common gaps. Businesses that hold sensitive client data, face compliance rules such as HIPAA or CMMC, or would struggle to recover from ransomware usually need dedicated monitoring and a plan for incident response as well.

Lists are editorial. Each firm is checked against its own website for the services, locations and facts we describe, and ordered on fit for the buyer the list is written for. Sponsored placements are always labeled.