Interviews - News - Analysis: For successful growth with Managed Security Services

Managed Security Services: A look behind the scenes

Why Managed Security Services? Traditional IT services are often based on project-related billing and individual measures. In today’s threat landscape, this is no longer sufficient. Managed Security Services offer a strategic advantage: They enable continuous monitoring, early detection of threats and proactive defense measures. Companies benefit from predictable costs and an improved security situation, while […]

Why Managed Security Services?

Traditional IT services are often based on project-related billing and individual measures. In today’s threat landscape, this is no longer sufficient. Managed Security Services offer a strategic advantage: They enable continuous monitoring, early detection of threats and proactive defense measures. Companies benefit from predictable costs and an improved security situation, while IT service providers can strengthen their customer loyalty and generate stable income in the long term.

Success factor: The right choice of services

In Manuel’s view, a common mistake is trying to build a comprehensive MSS portfolio immediately. A step-by-step approach is more promising. ltmemory started with basic, easy-to-implement security solutions, such as:

  • Password management: Simple but effective security measure to reduce attack opportunities.
  • SSL certificate management: Automated management and renewal of SSL certificates.
  • Managed firewalls: Regular updates and configuration monitoring for optimal network security.
  • After these first steps, more advanced solutions could follow, e.g. E.g.:
  • Vulnerability management: Tools enable continuous security assessment.
  • Endpoint security: From classic antivirus programs to advanced solutions such as Managed Detection & Response (MDR).
  • Email security: Protection against phishing and malware.

Sales strategy: From the classic model to subscription service

The transition from project-based IT services to managed services also requires a rethink in sales. Customers must understand the added value of recurring services. Transparent pricing with clear service descriptions helps here. It is particularly important to gradually introduce existing customers to the new model by reviewing and optimizing old contracts.

Challenges and solutions

  • Price comparability: Customers tend to select offers based on the cheapest price. The focus should therefore be on the scope of services and the additional benefits.
  • Technical implementation: The introduction of new services must be well coordinated with the technical teams in order to avoid internal resistance.
  • Maintain flexibility: While MSS require a standardized model, there should still be enough flexibility to meet individual customer needs.

We quickly learned that customers don't buy technology - they buy security, predictability and trust. Anyone offering managed security services must deliver exactly that!

Manuel Kruse
LTmemory GmbH
Olaf Kaiser:

Manuel, about two years ago you started to offer more of your services as managed security services. How did this decision come about?

Manuel Kruse:

That was actually a lengthy process. Our managing director and sales manager started thinking about managed services two and a half years ago. Initial attempts were made, but it wasn't until about a year ago that things became concrete. I then joined the team to drive the topic forward in a structured way.

Olaf Kaiser:

What challenges did you face at the beginning?

Manuel Kruse:

The biggest question was: “What can you actually offer as a managed service?” Initially, people think big - entire data centers or complete IT infrastructures as a service. But it quickly becomes clear that not everything is practicable. So we started small, with simple but effective modules such as password management or SSL certificates. Then we added firewalls, telephone systems and endpoint security solutions.

Olaf Kaiser:

How do customers react to the switch from traditional IT support to managed services?

Manuel Kruse:

Different. New customers are easier to convince as they are not used to an old pricing model. Existing customers, on the other hand, first need to understand why a continuous service is more advantageous than one-off billing. Price comparisons are a challenge because customers often only see the monthly fees, but not the additional added value such as maintenance and support.

Olaf Kaiser:

What are your biggest learnings from the last few months?

Manuel Kruse:

Managed services are not a sprint, but a marathon. You have to take your team with you, adapt processes internally and, above all, learn to communicate the added value convincingly. We have also found that transparency is crucial - both for customers and for internal processes. A structured contract and billing model makes the transition much easier.

Olaf Kaiser:

Which security services will be a priority for you in 2025?

Manuel Kruse:

We are focusing heavily on vulnerability management and the expansion of Managed Detection & Response (MDR). We want to take our customers to a higher level, particularly in the area of endpoint security - from traditional antivirus solutions to intelligent, proactive protection measures. Microsoft 365 also remains a challenge, as many companies need support with security and compliance.

Olaf Kaiser:

What tips would you give IT service providers who want to set up managed security services in 2025?

Manuel Kruse:

1. analysis before action: Before you get started, you should check exactly which services are really feasible and how the team feels about them.

2 Start small: A simple service like a password manager is better than an overly complex offering that is difficult to sell.

3. think long-term: Managed services require a strategic changeover that doesn't work overnight.

Profile

LTmemory is a Berlin-based system house with many years of experience in customizing hardware and software solutions. As a dedicated IT company, we develop suitable IT solutions for our customers that secure the flow of information in the company and enable efficient working.
Manuel Kruse
Business Development Manager
LTmemory GmbH
Culemeyerstr. 2
12277 Berlin

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