When it comes to cybersecurity, MSPs often struggle with the decision of whether to build an in-house security team or work with a specialized provider, as each option brings its own advantages.
An in-house team provides direct control, closer alignment with company culture, and immediate access to internal resources. On the other hand, a cybersecurity partnership offers access to advanced tools, broader expertise, and the ability to scale services quickly without the high costs of staffing and infrastructure.
In this article, we’ll look more closely at both models, highlight the benefits and trade-offs, and outline the factors MSPs should weigh when deciding. You’ll also learn when it makes sense to stay in-house and when partnering creates greater value.
What is the In-House Cybersecurity Service Model?
The in-house cybersecurity service model is a structure where an organization builds and manages its own internal security team. Instead of outsourcing, all security operations are handled by employees who work directly within the business, including:
- Monitoring threats
- Managing incidents
- Ensuring compliance
One of the main advantages of this model is control. Companies can establish their own processes, tailor security strategies to their exact needs, and make sure that sensitive data is managed only by trusted internal staff. An in-house team is also deeply familiar with the organization’s systems and culture, which can lead to faster response times and tighter alignment with business objectives.
However, the in-house model also presents challenges. Recruiting and retaining skilled cybersecurity professionals can be difficult, as demand for talent far exceeds supply. Building advanced capabilities, such as 24/7 monitoring or specialized compliance support, often requires significant investment in both technology and personnel.
For many businesses, especially smaller MSPs, the costs of sustaining an in-house team can quickly become overwhelming.
What is a Cybersecurity Partnership for MSPs?
A cybersecurity partnership for MSPs is an arrangement where a Managed Service Provider collaborates with a specialized security vendor to deliver advanced cybersecurity services to clients. Instead of building every capability in-house, the MSP leverages the partner’s expertise, infrastructure, and tools to expand its service portfolio and strengthen client protection.
The benefits of this model are significant. MSPs can quickly offer enterprise-level services without the heavy investment required to develop them internally, including:
This not only speeds up time-to-market but also helps smaller MSPs compete with larger providers. Partnerships also reduce the pressure of hiring and retaining scarce cybersecurity talent, as much of the technical expertise is supplied by the partner.
That being said, cybersecurity partnerships come with their own challenges. MSPs must carefully vet cybersecurity partners to ensure reliability, service quality, and alignment with client expectations. Pricing models can vary widely, and profit margins may shrink if costs are not managed properly.
In-House vs Outsourced Cybersecurity – 5 Key Factors MSPs Should Consider
For MSPs, deciding whether to build an in-house cybersecurity team or to outsource to a specialized partner is a strategic choice that can impact cost, service quality, and long-term growth. To make the choice easier, it helps to compare the two models across a few key factors that matter most to MSPs.
Below, we have a table outlining the two types, focusing on key factors:
| Key Factor | In-House Cybersecurity | Outsourced Cybersecurity |
| Costs and ROI | High upfront and ongoing expenses for staffing, tools, and training; ROI depends on long-term efficiency. | Lower upfront investment; predictable monthly costs with access to enterprise-level tools. |
| Talent Availability and Expertise | Dependent on ability to hire and retain skilled professionals, which is often difficult. | Immediate access to specialized teams with broad expertise and certifications. |
| Speed to Market | Slower, as capabilities must be built and tested internally. | Faster deployment through existing infrastructure and ready-to-use services. |
| Compliance and Risk Management | Full control over compliance but requires internal expertise and resources. | Partners often provide built-in compliance support across multiple frameworks. |
| Service Differentiation | Unique strategies possible but harder to scale. | Wide range of services, though branding may overlap with other MSPs using the same partner. |
When Should MSPs Build and When to Partner
The question many MSPs face, whether to build their own in-house cybersecurity capabilities or to partner with specialized vendors, has no right or wrong answer to it. Each path has unique advantages and challenges, and the ideal choice depends on the size of the MSP, its client base, and its long-term strategy. In some cases, the best solution is not one or the other, but a combination of both.
Below, we will explore each separate model, and then a third, hybrid method, so you can make an informed decision on what fits your security strategy best.
Building Cybersecurity In-House
An in-house cybersecurity team makes the most sense for larger MSPs with established resources and steady revenue streams. These organizations typically manage complex client environments where customization and direct control are highly important.
Building in-house allows them to tailor strategies, create proprietary processes, and maintain full ownership of client data and incident response. It’s also ideal for MSPs with clients in highly regulated industries, where compliance requirements demand close oversight.
However, building internally requires significant investments in talent, training, and technology. Hiring experienced professionals is costly and competitive, and maintaining 24/7 coverage can strain budgets.
For MSPs with the scale and financial stability to support it, in-house teams can provide a strategic advantage by offering differentiated, highly personalized services.
Joining MSP Partnership Programs
For small to mid-sized MSPs, partnerships offer a practical and cost-effective way to deliver enterprise-level cybersecurity without the overhead of building from scratch. By enrolling in MSP programs, these providers gain immediate access to advanced tools like:
This approach is especially valuable for MSPs experiencing rapid growth, where speed to market matters more than owning infrastructure. Partnerships also minimize financial risk, with predictable pricing models and lower upfront investment.
While MSPs must carefully vet partners for reliability, brand alignment, and support quality, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks. For many, partnerships are the fastest route to expanding services, increasing client trust, and staying competitive in a crowded marketplace.
Exploring Hybrid Approaches
A growing number of MSPs are adopting hybrid models that blend internal capabilities with external partnerships. In this approach, MSPs may handle certain services internally (compliance consulting or client-facing support), while outsourcing offerings like 24/7 monitoring or advanced threat detection.
Hybrid models help MSPs maintain flexibility, control costs, and build internal expertise gradually over time. This staged approach is ideal for MSPs planning long-term growth but not yet ready to invest fully in an in-house security operation.
Join CyberGlobal’s MSP Partner Program
Finding the right approach to building cybersecurity can be a challenging task for MSPs, especially in a volatile digital landscape that changes quicker than it takes for individuals to adapt. However, for every security need there is a solution.
At CyberGlobal, we have developed a complete MSP Partner Program that aims to cover every cybersecurity requirement. Our goal is not only to deliver services, but also to grow and succeed alongside you. We provide the scalability needed to meet modern standards, along with the expertise of top professionals in the field, always working by your side as an extension of your team.
Our MSP Partner Program gives you the tools and flexibility to expand your service offerings without the usual barriers of cost or complexity. With full portfolio access, you gain lifetime use of advanced services such as:
Our model is transparent, with no hidden costs—a single one-time $5K fee covers everything. To support your growth, we offer back-to-back payment, so you only pay us when your clients pay you, making sure that cash flow stays manageable.
You can also deliver enterprise-level capabilities immediately, backed by our trusted infrastructure and expertise. Through co-branding and co-promotion, you maintain your own identity while benefiting from CyberGlobal’s established reputation and shared marketing efforts.
So why wait?
Contact us today to expand your cybersecurity portfolio alongside a partner that is dedicated to mutual growth and success. Let’s build a safer digital future together!
