MDR Made Simple: Your Go-To Resource for MDR Service FAQs

In an era where emerging cyber threats materialise, and the stakes for organisations are higher than ever, ensuring robust cyber security defences is non-negotiable. Yet, for many, navigating the complex landscape of cyber security can be daunting, especially with limited internal resources and expertise.

This is where Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Services step in, offering a proactive and expert-driven approach to safeguarding your digital assets.  

Here are some frequently asked MDR Service FAQs to shed light on its significance: 

1. Who should consider using MDR services?

MDR Services often are best suited towards organisations that either: 

• Lack the internal resources, expertise or technology to manage complex cyber security threats effectively 
• Want to enhance their cyber security capabilities 

It is particularly beneficial for medium-sized businesses seeking to enhance their security capabilities with minimal investment in in-house security operations. 

2. What are the benefits of MDR services?

MDR services offer a plethora of benefits, including access to: 

• Specialised security expertise 
• Improved detection and response times 
• Reduced risk of data breaches and cyber-attacks 
• Compliance with regulatory requirements 
• The ability to focus internal IT resources on core business functions 

3. What is the difference between EDR and MDR?

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is an integrated security system recognised as an essential tool in the current cyber security landscape focusing on endpoint security. The system combines real-time continuous monitoring and collection of endpoint data with rules-based automated response and analysis capabilities. It detects, investigates and responds to suspicious activities on hosts and enables security teams to identify and respond to threats quickly. 

MDR goes much further than EDR by enhancing an organisation’s threat detection, analysis, and response capabilities far beyond EDR. By combining advanced technology, human expertise, and proactive threat hunting, MDR assists organisations in detecting, responding to, and mitigating cyber threats. Additionally, providing broader security, access to cyber security professionals, and 24/7 monitoring and rapid response, an MDR provider will provide 24/7 SOCs, incident response teams, and the ability to secure various platforms.  

4. Why do I need MDR services if I already have Microsoft Defender?

While Microsoft Defender is an effective tool for endpoint protection, MDR services offer a more comprehensive solution. With a proactive and expert-driven approach to cyber security, MDR addresses the limitations of relying solely on automated defences and enhancing an organisation’s overall security posture. 

5. What is the role of AI and machine learning in MDR?

AI and machine learning play a significant role in MDR by automating the analysis of vast amounts of data to identify patterns, anomalies, and potential threats. This technology enables faster detection and response to sophisticated attacks that might evade traditional security measures. 

6. Can MDR services be customised to an organisation’s specific needs?

Yes, Acora’s MDR offers flexible services that can be tailored to an organisation’s specific security requirements, industry regulations, and risk profile. Customisation can include the types of monitoring and response activities, reporting frequency, and specific security technologies used. 

7. What factors should organisations consider when selecting an MDR provider?

Organisations should consider the provider’s experience and expertise in cyber security, the range and depth of their services, their technology stack and integration capabilities, response times, communication and reporting processes, and how well they understand the organisation’s specific industry and compliance requirements. 

8. What about MDR and PCI DSS compliance?

Yes, MDR covers all the relevant requirements for PCI. One of the critical parts of the PCI Data Security Standard is the concept of logging and monitoring, which the MDR solution fulfils. 

9. How do MDR services help with accreditations such as Cyber Essentials, Cyber Essentials Plus, and ISO 27001?

Much of our monitoring aligns with the government-led Cyber Essentials (and Cyber Essentials Plus) certification. There is also a lot of alignment with ISO 27001. In general, we can align to relevant standards to give you peace of mind that you comply with the required criteria at any given time. 

10. How might an MDR service save my organisation money?

MDR services offer an immediate cost-saving by eliminating the need to employ full-time security analysts. This saves organisations from potential high costs in the current market, allowing them to redirect resources to other critical areas of the business. 

Investing in MDR cannot be overstated 

The importance of investing in an MDR service in today’s threat landscape is fundamental to proactive threat monitoring and rapid response to incidents. Becoming indispensable for many organisations looking to stay ahead of cyber threats which continue to evolve and grow in sophistication, partnering with a trusted MDR provider like Acora can bolster cyber security defences, mitigate risks, and safeguard valuable assets against evolving threats.  

Organisations that prioritise cyber security and invest in MDR service will be better positioned to navigate the challenges of the digital age and secure their long-term success.  

To find out more, you can fill out the form below and one of our Cyber experts will be in touch with you shortly to discuss.