EXECUTIVE BRIEF
As the regulatory landscape becomes more complex, dual-hatted Facility Security Officers (FSO) are tasked with juggling multiple roles and competing priorities, especially when working with the federal government. Managed Security Services (MSS) help strengthen your industrial security posture and alleviate the administrative burden of compliance by offering comprehensive managed IT services.
Here's what defense contractors need to know:
- Managed security services provide access to expert, specialized skills that better prepare contractors for DCSA assessments and achieving NISPOM compliance.
- Managed Security Service Providers are a cost-effective and streamlined option compared to recruiting and building a team internally.
Dig deeper and continue learning about optimizing your security operations below!
Security isn’t the only thing on your plate. As anFSO, you’re managing risk management, juggling compliance, and probably fielding IT questions you never signed up for. That's why more defense contractors are turning to MSS to lighten the load and implement stronger security measures.
This guide breaks down how MSS can help give you a strategic edge. You’ll learn how the right partner can reduce risk, increase your resilience, and give you back the bandwidth to focus on what matters most: protecting national security and helping your business win more contracts.
What Are Managed Security Services (MSS)?
MSS are outsourced Assistant Facility Security Officers (AFSO) and clearance management solutions designed to protect your business around the clock via a dedicated security operations center. That means threat detection, response, compliance monitoring, vulnerability management, and network security are all handled by a dedicated team of security experts, not your already overburdened staff.
MSS isn’t a one-time fix or a box-checking exercise. It’s a proactive, always-on approach to industrial security that includes intrusion detection and firewall management. While your team focuses on winning and delivering contracts, your MSS partner keeps an eye on your systems, watching for intrusions, patching weaknesses, and adapting to new risks as they emerge.
For small to midsize defense contractors, MSS offers something internal teams often can’t: continuous protection, deep expertise, and the ability to scale as your security needs grow more complex. Whether you’re adding five users or fifty, your protections and compliance program stay strong without having to rebuild your entire approach from scratch.
The Role of Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs)
A good Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) is more than just a vendor,they’re a partner in government contracting. MSSPs bring deep National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) expertise, proven pathways to pass Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) assessments and achieve cybersecurity maturity model certification, and real-world experience defending companies like yours from increasingly sophisticated threats. They handle the heavy lifting of outsourcing security tasks so you don’t have to go it alone.
Think of your MSSP as a force multiplier: they don’t replace your internal team, but they extend it by ensuring facility and personnel security clearances are up to date, documentation is being collected, and reducing the administrative burden on FSOs who are often dual-hatted. Your mission stays the same—but your capacity, coverage, and confidence all level up.
And at ISI, that partnership goes deeper. We help you plan, prioritize, and pivot when the threat landscape shifts. You get proactive guidance, fast answers, and a team that adapts to your business—not the other way around.
The Benefits of Managed Security Services
Managed Security Services give you more than coverage—they give you clarity. With the right partner, you get continuous defense, expert guidance, and a smarter, more cost-effective path to compliance. Let’s look at some of the particular benefits you get from working with an MSS provider.
Access to Specialized Skills
Hiring and keeping in-house security talent is tough, especially for small and midsize defense contractors. The demand is high, the costs are higher, and most FSOs don’t have the time or budget to build out a full cybersecurity team or dedicated IT teams.
MSSPs close that gap. You gain immediate access to certified professionals who focus solely on security and compliance: people who understand the evolving threat landscape and know what it takes to meet DoD requirements. For FSOs managing multiple roles without adequate internal support, that’s not just helpful—it’s essential.
Insider Threat Planning
Not every threat comes from the outside. FSOs are required under the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) to establish and maintain an Insider Threat Program as part of their Facility Security Clearance (FCL). That includes insider threat awareness training, reporting procedures, and a formal plan reviewed annually to protect sensitive data from potential threats.
MSSPs support you in meeting those obligations with structured guidance, monitoring tools, and expert input. From program development to employee briefings and data use policies, they help you stay compliant, reduce risk, and demonstrate due diligence to the DCSA.
Continuous Security Monitoring
For FSOs, maintaining compliance with the continuous monitoring requirements outlined under “The Rule” means more than just checking a box—it’s about staying ahead of evolving threats and maintaining the integrity of your security controls and security systems. But continuous monitoring can be time-consuming and technically complex, requiring regular assessments, tracking system changes, vulnerability scanning, and documented analysis of potential impacts on classified environments.
An MSSP helps take that burden off your plate. By implementing a structured, ongoing monitoring program, MSSPs provide real-time visibility into system health, flag potential weaknesses, and ensure changes to your IT or facility environment are assessed for security impact. For FSOs, this means fewer surprises, faster response to potential risks, and stronger confidence in your compliance posture. With continuous monitoring in place, you're not just reacting to issues—you're staying ahead of them, with the expert support to prove it during audits and reviews.
Rapid Incident Response Plans
MSSPs help defense contractors build DCSA-aligned incident response plans that ensure you're ready to act when security incidents occur. From defining roles and escalation paths to establishing detection, reporting, and containment procedures, MSSPs work with your team to develop a tailored, tested plan that meets compliance standards and real-world threats, enhancing your response capabilities.
Whether it's phishing, ransomware, malware, cyberattacks from cybercriminals, or insider misuse, a strong incident response plan outlines how to detect, assess, and mitigate threats effectively—reducing confusion, limiting damage, and speeding up recovery.
MSSPs also guide you through proper documentation, evidence handling, and post-incident communication, so you’re not just responding—you’re responding in a way that satisfies auditors, protects your operations, and demonstrates your commitment to national security.
Access to Threat Intelligence
Staying ahead of threats means knowing what’s coming—and MSSPs do. They’re tapped into global threat feeds, industry-specific intel, and real-time data on attack patterns that most small teams simply don’t have the time or capacity to track using tools like Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), event management, antivirus, and firewalls.
MSS providers use actionable intelligence to anticipate risks, adjust defenses, and fine-tune your security posture before a security threat ever hits your system. You stay protected without having to chase every headline or trend.
24/7 Threat Detection
Cyber threats strike when no one’s watching. MSSPs provide always-on threat hunting and detection, using security tools, automation, and machine learning alongside expert analysts to monitor your environment 24/7. This ensures your organization is never left exposed.
For FSOs juggling multiple roles, continuous monitoring means you don’t have to worry about what’s happening after hours. You’re backed by a security team that never clocks out.
Support for Regulatory Compliance
In the defense space, staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about staying in business and meeting federal agencies' requirements. MSSPs bring hands-on expertise in federal frameworks like NISPOM, DFARS, and CMMC, helping you interpret requirements, document your controls, and stay ready for DCSA assessments. MSPs can also help navigate broader standards such as the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP), the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), depending on your contract needs.
That support goes well beyond box-checking. A good MSSP acts as a strategic compliance partner—mapping controls to your environment, helping you respond to findings, and ensuring your security program evolves as regulations shift. They monitor for updates, track deadlines, and help you avoid surprises that could derail your clearance or delay your next federal contract.
Vulnerability Management
FSOs are responsible for ensuring their organization continually evaluates threats and vulnerabilities across operations, systems, IT infrastructure, and facilities. This is a critical part of maintaining security clearance eligibility, robust IT security, and protecting classified information—but it can be challenging for FSOs to manage on their own, especially with limited internal resources and ever-evolving threats.
Partnering with an MSSP gives FSOs the support they need to meet these requirements with confidence. MSSPs provide ongoing vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, tailored threat intelligence, and expert guidance to help prioritize and mitigate risks before they become security issues. They bring structure, visibility, and proactive support to vulnerability management—making it easier for FSOs to maintain compliance, strengthen their security infrastructure, and stay audit-ready year-round.
Maintaining Business Continuity
Industrial security breaches don’t just put classified information at risk—they can jeopardize your ability to fulfill contracts, maintain your Facility Clearance (FCL), and sustain critical business operations. MSS partners help ensure your operations remain compliant and resilient by implementing robust personnel vetting, insider threat programs, secure facility protocols, and incident response plans aligned with DCSA expectations, giving you peace of mind.
This kind of resilience is critical for FSOs handling security management, compliance requirements, and operational risk. With an MSSP in your corner, you minimize disruption, maintain trust with government partners, and keep your team focused on the mission—not cleaning up after a data breach.
How MSSPs Help FSOs Handle Security Clearances
As an FSO, you’re responsible for a lot more than compliance checklists,you’re managing people, processes, and sensitive systems, all while keeping your organization audit-ready. MSSPs can’t take that responsibility away from you, but they can make it manageable through strategic outsourcing.
By streamlining workflows, automating routine tasks, and centralizing documentation, MSSPs help reduce the administrative burden that can eat up your day. Need to prep for a DCSA assessment? You’ll have the reports and logs ready to go. Need to update training or review insider threat protocols? Those reminders are already built in.
Tools like ISI’s Security Control platform turn these capabilities into an integrated partnership—giving you real-time oversight, audit-friendly documentation, and the confidence that nothing’s slipping through the cracks. From tracking PCL status and training records to managing self-inspections and system access, Security Control helps you maintain readiness without the spreadsheets and manual follow-ups. In fact, ISI helps customers receive their FCL in 53 days on average, compared to the industry's 180-day average.
How Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) Help with CMMC Compliance
Maintaining CMMC compliance requires a long-term commitment to securing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) with advanced cybersecurity solutions. MSSPs help you meet that bar by delivering key capabilities required by DCSA and NISPOM, including foreign travel requests, training reminders, and DISS subject report maintenance. MSSPs can also assist with securing Microsoft environments and ensuring cloud security.
For FSOs, this means less time buried in documentation and more time focused on security strategy. MSSPs keep you ready, not reactive—and that’s exactly what our national security demands. Alerts, logs, and policy updates are handled in real time, so you’re not scrambling when auditors or assessors come calling.
The Cost-Effectiveness of Managed Security Services vs. In-House Security
Standing up an in-house security team means hiring specialists, buying and maintaining tools, and managing infrastructure—costs that add up fast, especially for small to midsize defense contractors. Managed service providers offer a smarter path: subscription-based pricing that gives you access to a full team with invaluable IT services expertise, without the overhead.
With ISI, you’ll have an AFSO and Security Specialist assigned to you, providing you with enterprise-grade protection and guidance at significantly reduced cost. And MSSPs can offer scalability with your needs to reduce the risk of costly breaches, failed audits, or contract delays as your core business grows.
Partner with ISI for Security and Compliance Support
You don’t need to carry the weight of security and compliance alone. ISI is built to support defense contractors like you—with the tools, expertise, and partnership to keep your business protected, compliant, and ready to grow.
Whether you're navigating CMMC, preparing for a DCSA assessment, or just tired of juggling security with everything else on your plate, we’re here to help. Our team becomes your team, and we stay with you every step of the way.
FAQs about Managed Security Services
What Managed IT and Cybersecurity Services Does ISI Provide for Small Defense Contractors?
ISI provides integrated managed IT and cybersecurity services purpose-built for small and mid-sized defense contractors in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Our approach combines IT management, cybersecurity monitoring, and compliance support into one continuous solution so you stay secure, audit-ready, and contract-eligible amid evolving DoD and CMMC requirements.
Our managed services include:
- 24/7 network and endpoint protection through advanced threat detection and response tools tailored for defense environments.
- Secure system administration and patch management to meet NIST 800-171 and CMMC Level 2 standards.
- User access, email, and data protection with multi-factor authentication, encryption, and secure backups.
- Compliance monitoring and documentation that simplifies ongoing CMMC, DFARS, and SPRS reporting.
- IT strategy and helpdesk support delivered by a team that understands cleared facilities, export controls, and the DIB supply chain.
Unlike generalist MSPs, our platform unifies IT, cybersecurity, and compliance, so small contractors don’t have to manage multiple vendors or worry whether their systems meet DoD expectations. We focus on service, responsiveness, and long-term partnership—so your team can focus on winning contracts while we keep you secure and compliant.
What’s Included in Our 24/7 Monitoring and Incident Response for DIB Clients?
ISI provides 24/7/365 continuous monitoring and incident response, specifically designed for contractors in the DIB. In addition, our 24/7 managed detection and response (MDR) service combines advanced threat intelligence, automated alerts, and hands-on security expertise to protect CUI and maintain compliance with CMMC Level 2, NIST SP 800-171, and DFARS 252.204-7012 requirements.
Key features of our 24/7 monitoring and response include:
- Continuous, real-time analysis of logs, user activity, and system behavior across servers, workstations, and cloud environments
- Threat detection and triage through automated systems and human analysts
- Incident containment and remediation
- Reporting aligned with DFARS and CMMC compliance
- Proactive threat hunting and tuning
Unlike general MSPs that simply forward alerts, ISI acts as an embedded security partner—providing both the technology and the expertise needed to respond decisively. Our SOC analysts specialize in DIB compliance and coordinate directly with your FSO or IT lead to ensure your organization stays resilient, audit-ready, and mission-focused.
How Much Does a Managed Security Service Provider Cost?
Costs vary based on company size, complexity, and required services. Most MSSPs offer subscription-based pricing, which is typically more affordable than building an internal team.
What is the Difference Between MSSP and MDR?
- An MSSP provides a broad range of outsourced cybersecurity services, including compliance support, security clearance workflows, vulnerability management, and advisory services.
- MDR (Managed Detection and Response) focuses on real-time threat detection and response via a Security Operations Center (SOC).
Think of MDR as a component within the broader scope of an MSSP offering.
Why Choose a Managed Security Service Provider Over In-house Security?
Building an in-house security team is expensive, time-consuming, and often unrealistic for small to midsize contractors. MSSPs deliver specialized capabilities instantly with scale, speed, and expertise that internal teams can’t match on a budget.
