Managed Detection and Response (MDR)

Managed Detection and Response (MDR) is a service that combines security technology with human expertise to detect, investigate, and respond to threats on your behalf. Unlike traditional MSSP services that primarily alert you to issues, MDR providers actively investigate alerts, hunt for threats, and take response actions — providing a more complete security operations capability.

MDR services typically include 24/7 monitoring, threat hunting, incident investigation, and guided or automated response actions. For small defense contractors, MDR fills the gap between having basic security tools and having a fully staffed security operations center.

Why It Matters

MDR services provide the continuous monitoring and incident response capabilities required by CMMC without the cost of building a full internal team. For small contractors, MDR is often the most practical path to meeting monitoring and response requirements.