Research Note: Managed Detection & Response (MDR) Services
Security Talent Shortage Equals Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Services
As the global cybersecurity talent shortage persists, with an estimated 3.4 million unfilled positions by 2025 according to (ISC)², 65% of C-suite executives will seek managed detection and response (MDR) services, like CrowdStrike's Falcon Complete, by 2026 to leverage elite security expertise, optimize their security investments, and improve their overall cybersecurity posture without the need for specialized in-house talent. (Probability .75)
The persistent global cybersecurity talent shortage, coupled with the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, is driving a significant shift in how organizations approach their security operations. By 2026, an estimated 65% of C-suite executives will turn to managed detection and response (MDR) services, such as CrowdStrike's Falcon Complete, to address their cybersecurity needs. This trend is fueled by the projected shortfall of 3.4 million cybersecurity professionals globally by 2025, as reported by (ISC)².
The adoption of MDR services represents a strategic response to the talent crisis, allowing organizations to leverage elite security expertise without the need to recruit, train, and retain specialized in-house talent. This approach is particularly appealing as it enables companies to optimize their security investments and improve their overall cybersecurity posture in a cost-effective manner. MDR providers offer 24/7 threat monitoring, detection, and response capabilities, leveraging advanced technologies and skilled analysts to defend against evolving cyber threats.
The shift towards MDR services reflects a growing recognition among C-suite executives of the critical importance of cybersecurity in today's digital landscape. With cyber attacks becoming more frequent and damaging, organizations are increasingly viewing robust security measures as essential for business continuity and reputation management. MDR services offer a compelling solution by providing access to top-tier security expertise and technologies that many organizations would struggle to develop and maintain internally.
Bottom Line
The adoption of MDR services by 65% of C-suite executives by 2026 signifies a major shift in cybersecurity strategy, driven by the persistent talent shortage and the need for advanced threat detection and response capabilities. This trend underscores the growing importance of cybersecurity as a business imperative and highlights the value of partnering with specialized security providers to address complex cyber threats. As organizations continue to grapple with the challenges of securing their digital assets in an increasingly hostile threat landscape, MDR services are likely to play a crucial role in bridging the skills gap and enhancing overall security postures. The 75% probability reflects the strong drivers behind this trend, while acknowledging potential factors such as budget constraints or preferences for building in-house capabilities that could influence adoption rates.
Sources:
(ISC)². (2022). 2022 Cybersecurity Workforce Study. Retrieved from https://www.isc2.org/Research/Workforce-Study
Gartner. (2023). Market Guide for Managed Detection and Response Services. Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/en/documents/4021755
Frost & Sullivan. (2023). Global Managed Detection and Response Market, Forecast to 2026. Retrieved from https://store.frost.com/global-managed-detection-and-response-market-forecast-to-2026.html
CrowdStrike. (2023). Falcon Complete Managed Detection and Response. Retrieved from https://www.crowdstrike.com/products/managed-services/falcon-complete/
Cybersecurity Ventures. (2022). Cybersecurity Jobs Report: 3.5 Million Openings In 2025. Retrieved from https://cybersecurityventures.com/jobs/
SANS Institute. (2023). SANS 2023 Security Operations Survey. Retrieved from https://www.sans.org/security-awareness-training/resources/reports/
Ponemon Institute. (2023). The State of Cybersecurity and Third-Party Remote Access Risk. Retrieved from https://www.ponemon.org/research/ponemon-library.html
Forbes Technology Council. (2023). 15 Cybersecurity Trends To Watch In 2023. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2023/01/30/15-cybersecurity-trends-to-watch-in-2023/