Starting points
The MDR buyer’s guide
Every question we wish RFPs asked, broken into ten domains. Use it as the agenda for your shortlist call.
How we research, score and verify providers
The full editorial document. What we measure, what counts as a verified field, how sponsorship works, and how it doesn’t.
What MDR actually costs in 2026
Pricing-model field guide, indicative bands by tier, hidden-cost grid, and an interactive estimator.
Fundamentals
What is MDR?
Managed Detection & Response explained. What it does, what it doesn’t, and how it fits into your security program.
MDR vs MSSP
Both are outsourced security services, but they work very differently. When to choose which.
MDR vs EDR
EDR detects threats on endpoints. MDR adds human analysts who investigate and respond. Most organizations need both.
MDR vs SOC-as-a-Service
MDR is a function. SOCaaS is an entire outsourced security operation. Knowing the difference prevents overbuying.
MDR vs AI SOC
MDR outsources to human analysts. AI SOC automates triage for your team to supervise. Who carries the responsibility?
Evaluating providers
How to choose an MDR provider
A quick 5-question decision framework. For the full evaluation process, see the buyer’s guide.
MDR pricing 2026
What MDR costs, what drives the bill, and how to avoid hidden fees and contract traps.
MDR attack surfaces
The 6 surfaces MDR can monitor: endpoint, cloud, identity, SaaS, network, and OT/IoT. What you need covered.
Switching MDR providers
What leaving costs: agent replacement, data export windows, detection content you lose and contract exit terms.
MTTD and MTTR explained
The two detection metrics that matter most, and why almost nobody measures them the same way.