MSP vs MSSP: Who’s Watching Your Tech—and Who’s Guarding the Door?
One powers your business. The other protects it. Here’s why you need both working together.
Secure Your Future with MSP & MSSP
Book Your Business Security Check-In Today
Get expert support and real protection—IT management that keeps your business running, and cybersecurity that keeps it safe. Start with a free Business Security Check-In.
MSP vs MSSP: What’s the Difference and Why Your Business Needs Both
If you’re a business owner trying to keep your operations running smoothly and securely, you’ve probably come across terms like MSP and MSSP. At first glance, they sound similar. But the truth is—they serve different (and equally vital) roles in today’s tech-driven world.
So what do they mean? And which one is right for your business?
Let’s break it down in plain English.
MSP vs MSSP: A Comprehensive Comparison
🔧 What Is an MSP (Managed Service Provider)?
An MSP is your outsourced IT department.
They take care of all the day-to-day technology needs that keep your business running—so you don’t have to. At Foundation BTS, that includes:
Setting up and managing desktops, servers, and cloud environments
Managing email, productivity, and Microsoft 365 tools
Backing up your files and ensuring data recovery
Offering friendly helpdesk support for your team
Keeping your systems updated, optimized, and running smoothly
Think of an MSP like a building manager—they keep the lights on, the plumbing working, and the space running like it should.
🛡️ What Is an MSSP (Managed Security Services Provider)?
An MSSP focuses on cybersecurity.
Their job is to monitor threats, prevent attacks, and protect your business from data breaches, ransomware, and other online risks. At Foundation BTS, that includes:
24/7 threat detection and monitoring
Managed antivirus, firewall, and endpoint protection
Employee security awareness training
Regular vulnerability scans and risk assessments
Incident response planning and data breach support
Think of an MSSP like your security guard—always watching, ready to act when a threat appears.
📊 Who Does What? Breaking Down MSP vs MSSP
🧩 Service Category and Scope of Service
Core Focus
Services
Monitoring
Ideal For
Example
🔧MSP (Managed Service Provider)
IT Support & Maintenance
Network setup, helpdesk, backups
Basic performance and uptime
Businesses needing IT help
Set up Microsoft 365 for your team
🛡️MSSP (Managed Security Services Provider)
Cybersecurity & Threat Protection
Firewalls, monitoring, response
Real-time threat detection
Businesses worried about cyber risk
Monitor for phishing & ransomware attacks
Why Cybersecurity and IT Management Are Crucial in 2025
🧠 Why the Difference Matters
Cybercrime isn’t slowing down. In fact, it’s getting more advanced and more frequent—especially for small and mid-sized businesses in Canada. With remote work, cloud tools, and AI-driven threats, it’s no longer enough to just “have someone for IT.”
You need a partner that can:
-
Keep your systems running smoothly (MSP)
-
Protect your business from costly cyber incidents (MSSP)
At Foundation BTS, we’ve combined both under one roof—because your business needs both sides of the coin.
Comprehensive IT and Security Solutions
✅ You Don’t Have to Choose
Good news: you don’t have to juggle two separate vendors.
Foundation BTS offers a complete IT and cybersecurity solution. We support your team with dependable tech while securing your business with layered protection—so you can move forward with confidence.
Whether you’re looking for better support, stronger security, or a fresh set of eyes on your current setup, we’re ready to help.
🔍 Ready to See Where You Business Stands?
Start with a free Business Security Check-In—a quick, no-pressure session to help you understand how protected your business really is and where you might be exposed to risk.
👉 Fill out the form below to book your Business Security Check-In.
At Foundation BTS, we proudly support businesses throughout the Greater Toronto Area with reliable IT support and proactive cybersecurity. Let’s keep your business productive, protected, and prepared.