Why EDR and XDR are becoming essential for MSP security

Antivirus just isn’t enough anymore — not even close. Ransomware attacks constantly grow more sophisticated, zero-day vulnerabilities appear frequently and attackers increasingly rely on legitimate tools already inside a network rather than just on traditional malware. Antivirus alone just can’t protect organizations from all of those threats.

For managed service providers (MSPs), the shift away from relying heavily on antivirus represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Clients expect stronger protection against threats that evolve faster than MSPs can deploy patches. At the same time, MSPs that go beyond antivirus to deliver modern security capabilities can strengthen client relationships, differentiate their services and unlock new recurring revenue opportunities.

That’s why endpoint detection and response (EDR) and extended detection and response (XDR) are quickly becoming foundational technologies for MSPs building modern security practices.

Traditional antivirus tools rely primarily on signature-based detection. They compare files against known malware signatures and block threats that match those patterns. However, modern attackers increasingly bypass those defenses using fileless techniques, compromised credentials and lateral movement across networks before launching ransomware or exfiltrating data.

As a result, MSPs must move their security strategies beyond simply detecting known malware. Modern defenses need to focus on identifying suspicious behaviors and anomalies in real time so that MSPs can detect threats earlier and stop them before damage occurs.

EDR provides real-time visibility into endpoint activity and uses behavioral analysis, machine learning and threat intelligence to identify suspicious behavior. Instead of relying on signatures, EDR evaluates whether activity looks like an attack and enables teams to respond quickly.

XDR extends that visibility across the broader IT environment. It correlates signals from endpoints, networks, cloud environments, servers and identities to detect threats that move across systems. The broader perspective helps MSPs identify coordinated attacks and stop them before they spread.

Together, EDR and XDR enable MSPs to shift from reactive security to proactive threat detection and response.

Beyond stronger protection, modern security capabilities also deliver clear business benefits for MSPs.

First, proactive threat detection builds trust. When MSPs identify and stop threats before they disrupt operations or expose data, clients see the value of service providers’ security expertise.

Second, advanced security enables stronger service offerings. MSPs can create opportunities for upselling and premium pricing by building tiered service packages that include EDR, XDR and managed threat response.

Finally, advanced detection and response capabilities open doors to regulated industries such as healthcare and financial services where stronger security controls are required. The result is improved client retention, stronger relationships and more predictable recurring revenue.

One challenge many MSPs face is operational complexity. Deploying multiple disconnected tools can create alert fatigue, fragmented workflows and additional overhead for security teams.

Natively integrated platforms help address this challenge by bringing security and management capabilities together in a single environment. Solutions that combine remote monitoring and management (RMM), backup and advanced threat protection simplify deployment and enable MSPs to scale security services without adding operational operating friction.

That’s where the Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud platform plays a key role. With integrated data protection, cybersecurity and endpoint management capabilities, Acronis enables MSPs to deliver advanced protections such as EDR and XDR while maintaining operational efficiency. With a natively integrated platform manageable in a single point of access, MSPs can simplify workflows, reduce complexity and focus on protecting clients.

To explore a more comprehensive discussion and learn how LogMeIn Resolve and the LogMeIn Data Protection Suite powered by Acronis help MSPs build stronger security practices, read the complete LogMeIn blog post.