CenturyLink has been recognized for innovation in its managed security services (MSS) offerings by two independent analyst firms. CenturyLink was named a “Leader” in the IDC MarketScape: U.S. Emerging Managed Security Services 2016 Vendor Assessment, and, separately, CenturyLink was named a “Strong Performer” in The Forrester Wave: Managed Security Services Providers, North America, Q3 2016.
Forrester noted that CenturyLink emerges with an “innovative approach to architecture” and security leaders needing transparency from their service provider for cost control will prefer CenturyLink’s pricing model. CenturyLink was the only provider to receive a score of 5 out of 5 for “delivery capability – expertise and competency,” which the company believes is a key factor for ensuring successful implementations. “Not content to merely provide managed security services as a value-added option, CenturyLink made a substantial investment in its user interface and the method by which it collects log data,” states the Forrester report, which weighed 36 criteria for its evaluation.
The IDC MarketScape highlighted several advanced offerings in CenturyLink’s Managed Security Services Suite, such as DDoS and complementary services. In naming CenturyLink a Leader, IDC noted the company’s flexible delivery models, strong channel presence and pricing methods. CenturyLink is the only communications service provider (CSP) to be named a Leader.
“CenturyLink has demonstrated its commitment to strengthening its security services as well as supporting its customers’ transition from a traditional networking infrastructure to a hybrid IT world,” said Martha Gomez Vazquez, senior research analyst, IDC in the report.
CenturyLink’s Managed Security Services Suite, available in the U.S. either as a stand-alone service or as an add-on for customers buying hosting, networking, cloud and colocation services, enables organizations to improve their security posture and respond more efficiently to cyberattacks. The suite features four integrated security monitoring and analysis services on a fully managed platform that leverages both traditional security information and event management (SIEM) technologies and customized tools. Using the platform’s web-based security portal, customers and CenturyLink security experts can access real-time data to quickly analyze and act on security incidents in their critical environments.
“Organizations that strengthen their security posture are better positioned to serve their own customers’ needs,” said Tim Kelleher, vice president, IT security services, at CenturyLink. “Our Managed Security Services Suite enables companies and government agencies to better defend themselves and reduce risks. We’re seeing a growing number of customers realize they can reduce the complexity of managing their security while getting access to a team of highly skilled security experts.”
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