Work smarter, not harder – it’s cliché, but it applies to how managed service providers (MSPs) should handle cyberthreats.
Businesses are facing more sophisticated security threats than ever. For MSPs, continuously monitoring and responding to threats can be an uphill battle. This is where Unified Threat Management (UTM) comes in.
Let’s unpack what UTM platforms are, how they work, and why MSPs are investing in them more often than ever:
What are Unified Threat Management (UTM) Platforms
Unified threat management is an all-in-one network security solution that consolidates multiple security features or services into a single device within your network. The following security features are generally combined:
- Firewall
- Intrusion prevention
- Antivirus
- Content filtering
- Web filtering
- Anti-spam
With UTM, managed service providers can take complete control of an organization’s security interface.
In addition to UTM, MSPs are leveraging Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) to analyze log data and monitor threats. Investing in a SIEM solution from providers like ConnectWise can help ensure complete protection of your clients’ security infrastructure.
Key Features of UTM Platforms
An ideal unified threat management platform must possess the following key features:
Antivirus
This is a no-brainer. Antivirus software is necessary to monitor a client’s network and stop viruses from damaging the system. Within a UTM, the antivirus software can stop infected files, Trojans, worms, spyware, and other malware from infiltrating the system.
Anti-malware
Unified threat management can detect known malware. And that’s not it. UTM platforms can filter it out of your data streams and block it from penetrating your system.
Firewall
A firewall, as part of a UTM platform, has the ability to scan incoming and outgoing traffic for:
- Viruses
- Malware
- Phishing attacks
- Spam
It can also prevent insider threats, since a firewall filters both incoming and outgoing data.
Web filtering
A UTM’s web filtering feature can prevent users from seeing specific websites. A user’s browser would simply be unable to load pages from those sites on their device. For instance, some organizations want to prevent employees from opening social media sites using the company’s network. This can be done through web filtering.
Reasons MSPs Use UTM Platforms
The benefits of using UTM solutions are clear, but why exactly are MSPs investing in them? Here are some reasons:
Single pane of glass
Unified threat management platforms simplify multiple network management like never before. MSPs no longer have to juggle multiple, disconnected tools from different vendors. They can manage, monitor, and configure security for all their clients from one device.
Easy deployment
Given their ease of use, UTM solutions are incredibly easy to deploy. MSPs can quickly set up new clients, fast-tracking operations.
Cost-effectiveness
Purchasing and maintaining an all-in-one UTM solution is generally more cost-effective than buying, licensing, and managing separate security products.
With centralized management, MSPs can also reduce labor costs. They will need fewer specialized personnel. And of course, less time would be spent on maintenance, reporting, and updates.
Easy to scale
Lastly, unified threat management solutions are incredibly easy to scale.
