Today more organizations opt for managed detection and response services (MDR) to effectively protect complex security ecosystems and deal with emerging advanced cyber threats. By 2027, the global MDR market is projected to hit $2.6 billion, which is the right time to consider solution offerings and see how managed detection and response vendors, such as UnderDefense, Arctic Wolf, or Expel deliver the best value for money.
The Role of MDR Solutions in Tomorrow’s Business Protection
We’ve recently discussed what MDR is and how it differs from EDR and XDR products. Meanwhile, the long list of advantages makes the current popularity of MDR security solutions easily explainable. In the Market Guide for Managed Detection and Response Services, Gartner states that by 2025, 60% of companies will actively employ remote threat disruption and containment capabilities offered by MDR providers, compared to 30% today. So, what problems do companies solve with this type of service?
Top 3 challenges MDR vendors solve
1. Lack of human resources
It’s no secret that cybersecurity is facing a tremendous talent gap. Moreover, only a few industries experience the same skill shortages. Deepwatch SecOps Pulse Survey found that in July 2022, there were over 700,000 cybersecurity vacancies in the United States alone. If no corrective measures are taken, the gap will surpass one million by 2025.
Many organizations have adopted modern security tech to help their understaffed departments address the glooming threat landscape. For instance, the number of security products planned to be implemented in the upcoming 12 months will increase by over 80%. However, such an approach only aggravates the situation since companies lack the resources and expertise to properly deploy, fine-tune, and smoothly orchestrate new tools with other software in place.
2. Alert fatigue
Overwhelmed security teams are the second biggest problem of modern organizations. Reviewing, sorting, and managing a great many alerts coming from all those security technologies require more expertise and resources than companies typically own. Meanwhile, the number of alerts keeps growing along with digital estates and the number of endpoints.
Security teams are forced to deal with the same situation daily, which results in demoralization, burnout, and high attrition rates.
3. Limited budget
Considering today’s cybersecurity landscape, every organization should monitor its environment around the clock. But let’s admit that building an internal security operations center (SOC) is time-consuming and costly. In its 2022 State of Cybersecurity Report, CompTIA revealed that 40% of companies lack a cybersecurity budget. Though it’s a common problem in most IT areas, in the cybersecurity field, the situation is worse. Calculating the return on investment is challenging, and positive outcomes are not well-defined.
Building an in-house SOC can take months or even years, leaving your organization vulnerable. Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services address these challenges, offering immediate solutions for compliance and security.
Top MDR Providers List in 2024
Here are the leading companies offering managed detection and response (MDR) services to strengthen security in 2024.
- UnderDefense
- Arctic Wolf
- Alert Logic / Fortra
- Expel
- Red Canary
- Proficio
- Cato Networks
- Masergy
- Versa Networks
- Sophos MDR
Details and Features of MDR Providers
1. UnderDefense
UnderDefense is the award-winning cybersecurity team and top-rated company on Gartner and Clutch. Its holistic MDR solutions combine managed threat-hunting and incident response experts with state-of-the-art technologies to predict, prevent, detect, and respond to the most advanced cyberattacks.
The company offers different service delivery models that meet you where you are and scale easily as your business needs grow. You can choose a suitable package and pay only for those services you need today. Such an approach makes the UnderDefense MDR platform the most cost-effective solution for full visibility and complete breach protection.
The main features:
- Quick deployment and seamless integration into your existing IT security stack allow you to get the most out of current tools without overpaying
- Automation of day-to-day security operations from immediate detection to seamless remediation. Prebuilt and custom correlation rules for companies to boost response capabilities, optimize security costs, and deal with alert fatigue
- 24/7 monitoring, threat intelligence, and user behavior analytics to guarantee unprecedented environment visibility, and detect suspicious activity across endpoints, networks, cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments
- Comprehensive forensics provides insight into the root cause of a security incident, a detailed view of the affected assets within the network, and clear guidance on how to remediate and minimize the consequences for business.
2. Arctic Wolf
Arctic Wolf’s managed detection and response tools offer 24/7 threat monitoring of endpoints, networks, and cloud environments. They empower companies to detect and contain advanced cyberattacks and prevent future attacks with workflow customization and exhaustive threat analysis.
The main features:
- White-glove deployment engagement to minimize confusion, complexity, and time
- Around-the-clock security coverage of major cloud platforms by a dedicated team
- Combination of security industry experience and unique understanding of cloud strategies to guide clients’ ongoing cloud security posture improvement.
3. Alert Logic / Fortra
Alert Logic offers white-glove managed detection and response solutions for SaaS, public cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments. It was named the leader by IDC and G2 (MDR for enterprises). In March 2022, Fortra acquired Alert Logic to augment the existing cybersecurity resources and enrich its industry portfolio.
The main features:
- Threat intelligence that combines human smarts with industry data, continuous threat research, and machine learning
- Real-time reporting on compliance status, vulnerabilities, risks, remediation activities, and configuration exposures
- Platform scalability to protect the entire attack surface and ensure visibility and security analytics for networks, applications, and endpoints in cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments.
4. Expel
Expel’s MDR security solutions cover SaaS, Kubernetes, cloud, and on-premises environments with around-the-clock detection and response. The company leverages a software-driven approach to eliminate the noise, allowing clients to dedicate time to what matters most.
The main features:
- Integration with existing tech without agents, SIEM, or new hardware
- Automation of alerts and logs, as well as auto-remediation or full resilience recommendations
- Investigation of suspicious activities by the SOC and further provision of answers to the alerts
- Real-time alerts and comprehensive reports to prevent risks and gain full visibility into the investigation process.
5. Red Canary
Red Canary offers 24/7 MDR security systems for identities, endpoints, networks, cloud, and SaaS. They integrate with many modern security products to make it easier for companies to gain the best value and ROI from their current security investments.
The main features:
- Threat monitoring, detection, and investigation 24/7 applying advanced analytics to telemetry
- Automation and orchestration of playbooks to respond to threats, start remediation, and inform the right people
- Executive reporting to ensure complete transparency and let leaders track ROI and MTTR.
6. Proficio
Proficio’s MDR services leverage AI-based threat hunting, threat intelligence, and cutting-edge technologies to detect attacks effectively and promptly. The company was the first to offer response automation products, and today they propose a holistic set of Security Orchestration Automation and Response (SOAR) solutions
The main features:
- 24/7 security monitoring and alerting
- Integrated threat intelligence and AI-based threat hunting
- Managed endpoint detection and response
- Risk-based vulnerability management
- Automated and semi-automated containment
Proficio’s MDR services leverage AI-based threat hunting, threat intelligence, and cutting-edge technologies to detect attacks effectively and promptly. The company was the first to offer response automation products, and today they propose a holistic set of Security Orchestration Automation and Response (SOAR) solutions
7. Cato Networks
Cato Networks provides a cutting-edge SASE-based MDR platform, offering integrated network and security management. It is known for fast deployment and automates AI-driven threat detection to secure complex networks quickly and efficiently. With a strong focus on real-time network-level threat containment, Cato ensures protection across its wide-ranging SASE solution.
The main features:
- SASE-based solution: Combines network and security management into a single platform, simplifying infrastructure.
- Automated AI threat hunting: Leverages machine learning to detect suspicious activity and anomalies.
- Guided remediation: Provides clear steps for IT teams to contain and remediate threats.
8. Masergy
Missing Features: Lacks a fully integrated customer portal and some GUI functionality.
Masergy offers an AI-powered MDR platform that focuses on proactive threat hunting and securing IoT and network devices. Known for its efficient 24/7 global SOC monitoring, Masergy helps companies prevent malware, ransomware, and other threats across cloud and on-prem environments. It’s a cost-effective solution for companies looking for a reliable security partner that frees up internal resources.
The main features:
- AI-enhanced threat detection: Uses AI to proactively detect and mitigate threats before they escalate.
- Network and IoT security: Protects enterprise devices and IoT infrastructure with real-time visibility.
- Global SOC support: Provides cost-effective 24/7 security monitoring for businesses of all sizes.
9. Versa Networks
Versa Networks brings Zero Trust MDR solutions, perfect for businesses that operate in hybrid or multi-cloud environments. Versa enhances security by offering full visibility into network traffic and ensuring that mobile and remote users are protected. Their MDR services are ideal for organizations that prioritize secure access and network flexibility.
The main features:
- Zero Trust security integration: Ensures that all users and devices are authenticated and authorized, minimizing risks.
- Multi-cloud threat detection: Provides real-time detection across on-prem, private, and public cloud environments.
- Strong security for remote workers: Delivers security solutions designed for mobile and distributed teams.
10. Sophos MDR
Sophos Managed Threat Response (MTR) delivers 24/7 threat monitoring, detection, and response using their Intercept X platform. Sophos offers a fully managed service that handles threat remediation for businesses of all sizes, particularly SMBs.
The main features:
- 24/7 managed threat response
- Full remediation handled by security experts
- Endpoint protection with Intercept X
- Simple deployment for SMBs.
The Best Managed Detection and Response Vendors: Feature Comparison Table | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Features | UnderDefense | Arctic Wolf | Alert Logic | Expel | Red Canary | Proficio | Cato Networks | Masergy | Versa Networks | Sophos MDR | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Technology | Top notch SIEM, MDR,EDR, SOARs | Own technology, proprietary | Own technology, proprietary | General toolset | General toolset | General toolset | SASE-based MDR with AI-driven threat hunting | AI-based detection and response | Zero Trust integration, multi-cloud support | Intercept X, managed response | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Customer Portal | 24/7 availability Concierge service (SOC analysts directly available) Custom IR plan and playbook built with the client's IT Threat intelligence Support of your existing security investments Compliance visibility and implementation capabilities (SOC2, ISO, HIPAA) Vulnerability scanning Fine-tuning of your security tools to get maximum value for money Incident response, threat mitigation and containment on your behalf SOARs of your choice (Phantom, Siemplify, Demisto) Malware analysts Alerting via Slack or Email Dark Web monitoring/Leaked accounts monitoring |
How to Choose the Best MDR Provider
- What experience and expertise does the managed detection and response provider possess?
- What service delivery models does the vendor offer? Do any of these options work for you?
- How will the company work with and orchestrate your current security software for effective threat detection and response?
- What are the vendor’s incident response experience and typical workflow? How do they communicate with clients, manage alerts, and provide reports?
- Does the vendor provide a portfolio with actual client reviews?
Best MDR Solutions in 2024: Our Top Picks for You
We know how tough it can be to find the right Managed Detection and Response (MDR) solution for your business. With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you! We’ve handpicked the best MDR software for 2024 to help you stay ahead of cyber threats. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, affordability, or cutting-edge AI-driven detection, this list has something for everyone.Top 10 MDR Solutions for 2024
- UnderDefense MAXI
- CrowdStrike Falcon Complete
- Arctic Wolf
- Red Canary
- Masergy
- Cato Networks
- Sophos MDR
- Expel
- Trustwave
- Versa Networks
Quick Look at the Best MDR Solutions in detail
1. UnderDefense MAXI
UnderDefense MAXI takes the crown for good reason. It’s affordable, scales with your business, and fine-tunes your existing tools so you’re always getting the best out of your setup. With 24/7 monitoring and seamless integration, it’s a top choice for businesses that want proactive threat detection without breaking the bank.2. CrowdStrike Falcon Complete
CrowdStrike’s Falcon Complete is a cloud-native solution that provides lightning-fast threat detection, powered by AI. It’s perfect if you want something that can tackle even the most sophisticated cyberattacks, from malware to ransomware, without needing constant oversight.3. Arctic Wolf
If you need a hands-on team to help manage your security, Arctic Wolf’s MDR service is a fantastic option. Their Concierge Security Team offers 24/7 threat monitoring and helps guide your security improvements. It’s like having your own team of cybersecurity experts on call.4. Red Canary
Red Canary makes it easy for businesses to get the most out of their existing security investments. They offer transparent reporting and automation that keeps your security running smoothly, 24/7. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something that integrates seamlessly with your current tools.5. Masergy
Masergy is all about AI-driven security. Their MDR service excels at proactive threat hunting and securing your IoT and network devices. If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution with global 24/7 SOC support, Masergy might be your go-to.6. Cato Networks
Cato Networks stands out with its SASE-based MDR platform. It combines network security with AI-powered threat hunting for real-time containment. Fast deployment and seamless integration make this a fantastic choice for companies that need security up and running quickly.7. Sophos MDR
Sophos is a great fit for SMBs. With 24/7 threat detection and their Intercept X platform, they handle full remediation, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning up after an attack. It’s a reliable, straightforward solution for businesses that need full coverage without the hassle.8. Expel
Expel offers a super user-friendly dashboard and real-time visibility into your security. Their focus on automation helps reduce alert fatigue, giving your team more time to focus on what really matters. It’s perfect for companies looking for transparency and efficiency.9. Trustwave
Backed by SpiderLabs, Trustwave is built for enterprises that need strong security and compliance. They offer advanced threat hunting and incident response, making sure you stay secure and meet regulatory requirements. It’s a solid option for larger businesses with high compliance needs.10. Versa Networks
Versa Networks is all about flexibility. With its Zero Trust security framework, it’s designed for organizations with distributed teams and hybrid environments. It offers enhanced visibility and protection for remote workers, making it ideal for today’s increasingly mobile workforce.Conclusion
Many believe cybersecurity is only for large companies, but small and mid-sized businesses are increasingly targeted due to weaker defenses.
With threats growing, cybersecurity is no longer optional. Building a security team and implementing tools takes time, which is why choosing the right MDR solution is essential. It saves time, avoids pitfalls, and prevents costly breaches.
At UnderDefense, we know MDR is about more than technology—it’s about the people behind it. Our team is ready to protect your business. Reach out today for a quote!