WatchGuard expands Open MDR to support MSPs at scale

WatchGuard Technologies, a provider of unified cybersecurity solutions for managed service providers (MSPs), has announced an enhancement to its offerings with the introduction of WatchGuard Open MDR. This development broadens their managed detection and response (MDR) services, facilitating 24/7 threat detection across both WatchGuard and third-party tools, allowing MSPs to deliver their managed security service without necessitating disruptive platform changes.

In the cybersecurity arena, vendors often promise improved security outcomes, but in practice, their solutions can generate additional tools and alerts that require time to review and validate. WatchGuard's Open MDR appears to take a different route, offering enterprise-grade protection catered to mixed customer environments. It employs a Security Operations Centre (SOC) designed to prioritise genuine threats and act promptly.

Open MDR offers a unified operational view by integrating native WatchGuard solutions with third-party environments. This is designed to help MSPs achieve quicker onboarding, reduced renewal friction, and more standardised service delivery across diverse environments, without requiring forced migrations.

Intended Key Benefits for MSPs:

• Reduced Noise, Enhanced Control: The service filters critical events, ensuring quick responses.
• Advanced AI Techniques: With proprietary AI/ML, noise is minimised, threats validated, and responses triggered in under six minutes.
• Enterprise-Grade Support: Helps small and medium-sized MSPs provide enterprise-style security without requiring their own SOC.

Across various environments, including endpoints and cloud tools, WatchGuard MSPs have access to unified visibility, 24/7 monitoring, and validation. Open MDR helps identify and contain threats while supporting operational continuity and customer service.

While many organisations possess adequate security tools, they often lack the resources for effective management. Aiming to address this gap, WatchGuard's SOC offers continuous environment monitoring, quick validation, and immediate responses to contain and isolate potential incidents, powered by proactive AI-driven threat hunting.

For MSPs delivering expansive security, Open MDR facilitates scaled delivery with retained customer control, while WatchGuard works as a behind-the-scenes SOC supported by Technical Account Managers. With wide-ranging tool coverage, including third-party solutions, WatchGuard's Open MDR aims for seamless security management free from forced migrations.

This system allows mid-size customers to receive enterprise-grade protection — reducing alert fatigue and simplifying their operations.

Available globally through WatchGuard's vast MSP network, Open MDR complements their growing portfolio, reinforcing the vision for comprehensive, platform-focused security services.