--- title: "Outsourced Cyber Security | Network London" url: https://www.networklondon.co.uk/cybersecurity/outsourced-cyber-security-services description: "Outsourced cyber security for firms without a security team: what a provider takes on, what it costs and what to ask first. From Network London." publisher: Network London legal_name: Network Support (London) Ltd updated: 2026-10-05 --- # Outsourced cyber security for firms without an in-house team Network London is an IT support and cyber security company in Bermondsey, SE1, supporting businesses across London and worldwide. This guide explains outsourced cyber security services: the challenges they address, what a provider takes on and what to ask before you choose one. Network London provides outsourced cyber security to businesses across London from its office at The Leather Market in SE1, next to London Bridge. Ian is the Technical Director at Network London. He holds CEH and CISSP qualifications and is an ISO 27001 lead implementer, with over 25 years’ experience. ## Key Takeaways 1. Outsourcing cyber security offers not only cost savings but also access to specialised expertise and advanced technology, crucial for defending against evolving cyber threats. 2. Hybrid and remote working models increase security complexities, highlighting the need for cyber security strategies and continuous monitoring specific to your exact business requirements. 3. Selecting the right cyber security partner is key; consider their industry experience, scalability, and compliance prowess to ensure they align with your business's specific needs. ## What is cyber security outsourcing? Cyber security outsourcing involves hiring external specialists to manage your business's cyber defences, rather than relying on in-house resources. > This approach is often more cost-effective, allowing you to access high-level expertise without the overheads associated with maintaining a full-time team. Outsourced cyber security services use a range of frameworks to ensure comprehensive protection, including: - **NCSC Cyber Assessment Framework (CAF):** Guides businesses in implementing practices critical to protecting against cyber threats. - **Cyber Essentials:** A government-backed scheme focusing on fundamental protections against common online threats. - **The IASME Governance Standard:** Offers a benchmark of best practices for information security tailored to small and medium enterprises. - **SOC2:** Ensures service providers securely manage data to protect the interests and privacy of their clients. - **ISO Standards (e.g., ISO 27001, ISO 22301):** Provide specifications for information security management systems and business continuity. - **PCI-DSS:** Essential for businesses that handle credit card information, ensuring secure transactions and data protection. These frameworks form the backbone of a solid cyber security strategy, helping to standardise and enhance the security measures of your business. ## Do these **cyber security questions** sound familiar? - A client or insurer has sent a security questionnaire and you are not sure where to start. - You want an honest view of whether your current security is enough, and you have nobody to ask. - Your team is using tools like ChatGPT and there is no policy for them. ### What do outsourced cyber security services include? Outsourcing your cyber security offers an array of services tailored to safeguard your business. These services not only respond to incidents but also anticipate potential threats: - **Security Operations Centre (SOC):** Provides real-time monitoring and analysis to detect and respond to security incidents. - **Network Auditing:** Identifies vulnerabilities and performance issues within your network to enhance operational resilience. - **Device threat detection and response:** Monitors endpoint and network events, responding automatically to contain and investigate suspicious activities. - **Phishing Simulations:** Trains employees to recognise and react to simulated phishing attacks, improving organisational vigilance. - **Vulnerability Scanning:** Proactively scans systems for vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit, allowing for preventive measures. - **Dark Web Monitoring:** Monitors dark web channels for potential leaks or misuse of your company’s sensitive data. - **Security Awareness Training:** Equips your team with the knowledge to identify and mitigate potential security risks. - **Penetration Testing:** Simulates cyber-attacks to test the effectiveness of security protocols and systems. - **Managed Compliance:** Ensures that your cyber security practices comply with legal and regulatory standards. - **Ongoing Support:** Provides continual assistance and updates to keep your security systems robust against evolving threats. ### Why outsourcing cyber security services is important for businesses Cyber security is a complex arena, with threats that evolve faster than most businesses can keep up with on their own. Outsourcing your cyber security management can significantly reduce the potential costs associated with a security breach, which can be costly. With experts in your corner, your business gains access to specialised knowledge and modern technology to defend against, and respond to, cyber incidents. Outsourcing also ensures that you have continuous support and a strategic approach to managing cyber risks, tailored to the specific threats your business faces. This strategic focus is vital, as there will always be new security challenges that demand expert attention and immediate action. ## What challenges do businesses face when it comes to cyber threats? UK businesses face several challenges in managing cyber security, especially in the context of remote and hybrid work environments. These challenges can significantly impact the security posture of businesses as they adapt to new working conditions. ### Remote and hybrid working complexities The shift to remote and hybrid working models has introduced complexities in securing IT environments. Organisations find themselves needing to support a dispersed workforce, which [complicates the traditional security models](https://www.digit.fyi/hybrid-working-uk-struggles-with-security-challenges/) that are designed for on-premises IT management. The lack of physical oversight increases the risk of cyber attacks, as employees connect from various, often less secure, networks. ### Managing company and personal devices With the adoption of remote and hybrid work setups, employees often use a mix of company-issued and personal devices to perform their work tasks. This brings significant challenges, as securing a variety of devices and ensuring they all meet the company's security standards is complex. Personal devices, in particular, [may not have the same level of security](https://simplemdm.com/blog/challenges-of-bring-your-own-device-byod-policy/) as company-issued hardware, increasing the vulnerability to cyber security threats. ### Compliance and endpoint security Ensuring compliance with cyber security standards has [become more challenging with remote](https://www.forbes.com/sites/adigaskell/2022/03/02/the-cybersecurity-challenges-of-working-from-anywhere/) and hybrid working. Many organisations report a lack of confidence in their IT estate’s ability to meet compliance requirements, which is aggravated by the scattered nature of remote working setups. This situation is further compounded by inadequate endpoint security measures, such as a lack of device encryption and endpoint security tools, across both public and private sectors. ### Cyber security frameworks and incident response The need for resilient cyber security frameworks and effective incident response plans is more critical than ever. However, surveys indicate that a significant number of [UK businesses lack formal cyber security policies](https://stripeolt.com/insights/cyber-security/uk-cyber-security-breaches-survey-2023-key-findings/) that adequately address the modern threats associated with remote working environments. Also, the readiness to respond to cyber incidents remains low, with many organisations lacking a formal incident response plan, which is essential for minimising damage during and after a cyber attack. In response to these challenges, businesses are increasingly turning to outsourced [managed cyber security services](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/cybersecurity/cyber-security-managed-services) to bolster their defences and manage the complexities introduced by the new working paradigms. Outsourcing cybersecurity services allows businesses to benefit from specialised expertise and advanced technologies to protect against constantly evolving cyber threats, ensuring both compliance and resilience in a cost-effective manner. ## Want a **clearer view** of your cyber security? - Talk to a team that gets to know your business, your people and how you work. - Get support 24/7, with a real person answering the phone. - Get guidance on standards such as Cyber Essentials, in plain English. ## The top 6 benefits of working with outsourced cyber security consulting services Outsourcing cyber security consulting offers unique advantages that can significantly enhance the security posture of your business. Here are six benefits: ### Access to specialised expertise Outsourcing provides access to specialists whose sole focus is cyber security. This expertise often includes deep knowledge of the latest cyber security threats, advanced attack methodologies, and emerging trends, ensuring that your business benefits from the most current security strategies. ### Scalability and flexibility Cyber security needs can vary significantly depending on new projects, company growth, or evolving threats. Outsourced cyber security services can easily scale up or down based on your business’s current needs without the necessity for you to invest in new hardware or software, which can be cost-prohibitive. ### Enhanced cyber security monitoring Outsourced providers use sophisticated tools and technologies to monitor your networks and systems continuously. This constant vigilance helps in the early detection of potential security incidents, significantly reducing the impact of breaches by addressing threats before they escalate. ### Cost efficiency Hiring and training a full-time cyber security team can be expensive. Outsourcing allows you to convert fixed [IT costs](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/solutions/it-support-costs) into variable costs and only pay for what you use. This cost structure can result in significant savings, freeing up capital for other areas of your business. ### Regulatory compliance management With the complexities of compliance standards, such as GDPR, PCI-DSS, and ISO, [managing IT compliance](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/service/managed-it-compliance) in-house can be overwhelming. Outsourced cyber security providers are well-versed in these regulations and can ensure that your business meets the necessary legal and industry standards, reducing the risk of costly fines and penalties. ### Strategic security insights Beyond day-to-day security management, outsourced cyber security firms often provide strategic insights into your security stance. They can offer recommendations for improving policies, conduct security audits, and help you develop a robust cyber security framework that aligns with your business objectives. By using outsourced cyber security consulting services, your business can not only enhance its defensive capabilities against cyber threats but also gain a strategic partner that contributes to its overall resilience and compliance posture. ## How to choose the perfect cyber security partner for your business Choosing the right cyber security partner is crucial for your business's protection and compliance. Before you choose, ask how a provider communicates: who replies to your tickets, who you will speak to and how they keep you updated. [Finding a new cyber security consultancy partner](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/cybersecurity/cyber-security-consulting-services) can be a challenge, especially if past experiences have been less than ideal. Here's a checklist to help you evaluate potential cyber security partners effectively: - **Assess Their Expertise in Your Industry**: Different industries face unique cyber threats. Does the provider have experience and a proven track record in your specific sector? Industry-specific knowledge can significantly enhance the relevance and effectiveness of the security measures implemented. - **Evaluate How Flexible They Are**: Can they tailor their services to your specific needs? A one-size-fits-all approach rarely covers all bases in cyber security. Ask potential partners how they would address your unique challenges. - **Check for Comprehensive Threat Detection and Response**: How comprehensive are their threat detection and response capabilities? Ensure they not only monitor and alert but also provide proactive threat hunting and incident response. - **Consider the Scalability of Services**: As your business grows, your cyber security needs will evolve. Can the provider scale their services to accommodate your future growth without compromising on quality or responsiveness? - **Verify Compliance and Certifications**: Does the provider stay current with compliance standards relevant to your industry, such as GDPR, PCI-DSS, or ISO? Check their certifications to ensure they meet international and local compliance standards. - **Assess Communication and Reporting Protocols**: Since poor communication can be a deal-breaker, ask about their reporting and communication processes. How often will they report on your security status? What is their protocol for communicating in the event of a security incident? - **Ask About Their Technology and Tools**: What technologies and tools do they use? Are these tools state-of-the-art, ensuring resilient cyber security management and protection? - **Inquire About Training and Support**: Do they provide training for your staff? Continuous education is crucial in maintaining a strong security posture. Check if they offer regular updates and training as part of their service. - **Understand Their Pricing Structure**: Is their [pricing model transparent and predictable](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/pricing)? Understand all costs involved, including any potential costs for additional services or incident responses. - **Check References and Reviews**: What do other clients say about their service? Positive reviews and testimonials from businesses similar to yours can provide insights into their reliability and performance. By carefully considering these points, you can choose a reputable cyber security provider that not only meets your current needs but also supports your business as it grows and evolves. ## Tell us what you need Jessica, our Operations Director, reads every enquiry and replies personally the same day. The first step is a conversation about your business, what's working and where you need help. Prefer to talk? Call [0333 335 5020](tel:+443333355020). A real person answers, always. Thank you. Your message has been received and we'll be in touch shortly. Something went wrong sending that. Please call [0333 335 5020](tel:+443333355020) or email [letstalk@networklondon.co.uk](mailto:letstalk@networklondon.co.uk?subject=Network%20London%20-%20IT%20services%20query). ## Related guides - Explore the [crucial role of cyber security for financial services](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/cybersecurity/cyber-security-for-financial-services), safeguarding sensitive financial data and client trust amidst rising cyber threats. - Discover [how digital transformation consultancy services can revolutionise](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/solutions/digital-transformation-consultancy-services) your business processes, enhancing efficiency and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving digital world. - Learn about the [importance of cyber security for schools](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/cybersecurity/cyber-security-for-schools) and the educational sector, protecting student data and maintaining safe, secure digital learning environments. - See [how small business cyber security services are tailored](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/cybersecurity/cyber-security-for-small-businesses) to address the unique challenges faced by smaller enterprises, offering robust protection without the complexity. ## Conclusion We hope this guide has provided you with a clear understanding of the benefits and challenges of outsourced cyber security services, as well as practical advice on selecting the right cyber security partner for your business. Does your business face similar cyber security challenges? How do these challenges impact your team and operations? If you would like to talk it through, [send us a message](https://www.networklondon.co.uk/contact-us). Jessica Ruvin, our Operations Director, replies personally the same day, and the first step is a conversation about your business. ## About Network London Network London is an IT support and cyber security company in central London, based at The Leather Market, SE1, next to London Bridge, Tower Bridge and Borough. For 20 years it has looked after IT and security for growing businesses, so their people can get on with their work. A team of 17 supports more than 100 businesses in London and around the world. Network London is a trading name of Network Support (London) Ltd, registered in England and Wales, company number 05991874. Network Support (London) Ltd is owned by Verdani Solutions Group Limited, which also owns the Network London trade mark. ## The Cyber Security Vault: 22+ tools and apps Most of them are free. We'll send you our list of resources you and your team can use to improve your cyber security straight away. No technical knowledge needed. --- Network London, LM04.202, The Leather Market, Weston Street, London SE1 3ER. Telephone 0333 335 5020. letstalk@networklondon.co.uk. Network London is a trading name of Network Support (London) Ltd, registered in England and Wales, company number 05991874. Network Support (London) Ltd is owned by Verdani Solutions Group Limited, which also owns the Network London trade mark.