NTT Launches Managed Service for Continuous IT Security ‘Cyber Hygiene’

A new approach to corporate cybersecurity, likened to a “security primary care physician,” has been launched by NTT Business Solutions. This service aims to provide ongoing monitoring and improvement of fundamental IT security measures for businesses and governmental organizations.

The Growing Need for Cyber Hygiene

NTT Business Solutions’ “Cyber Hygiene Support Service with Tanium” addresses a critical gap in many organizations’ defenses. The service focuses on “cyber hygiene”—the essential, foundational elements of cybersecurity—which are vital for preventing data breaches. Current data suggests a significant need for improvement, with approximately 60 percent of companies impacted by ransomware having not conducted regular security checks.

Did You Know? A substantial 60 percent of organizations hit by ransomware hadn’t performed routine security assessments prior to the attack.

A Proactive Approach to Security

The new service combines NTT’s experience in managing large endpoint environments with the capabilities of the Tanium Autonomous IT Platform. This collaboration offers a service that goes beyond basic operational support, visualizing risks and comprehensively managing vulnerabilities. It’s designed to support organizations that lack the internal resources to maintain robust security independently.

This launch reflects a broader industry trend toward proactive, foundational cybersecurity. As attackers increasingly exploit basic security weaknesses, experts emphasize the importance of solid fundamentals. Managed security services focused on hygiene, patching, and asset management are becoming increasingly critical, particularly given the ongoing shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals.

Expert Insight: The “security primary care” model represents a shift in thinking about cybersecurity, moving away from reactive incident response and toward continuous preventative care. This approach acknowledges that consistent attention to basic security practices is essential for long-term protection.

How the Service Works

The “Cybersecurity Primary Care” initiative utilizes a system to quantify an organization’s cyber hygiene, allowing for the management of key performance indicators (KPIs). This enables companies to identify risk areas and prioritize actions for specific network segments. The service includes routine tasks like monthly operating system patch installations and responses to newly discovered vulnerabilities, alongside consultation with NTT experts for recommendations and prioritization.

The Tanium platform is central to the offering, providing real-time visualization and management of all connected IT assets. Standardized processes, based on NTT’s operational experience, are intended to simplify implementation and ongoing management. Flexible support options are available to accommodate organizations of varying sizes and security maturity levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “cyber hygiene”?

Cyber hygiene refers to the fundamental elements of cybersecurity, such as maintaining a complete inventory of IT assets and regularly installing security updates, which are crucial for preventing data breaches.

What is the role of the Tanium platform?

The Tanium platform provides real-time visualization and management of all connected IT assets, allowing customers to identify vulnerabilities and enforce security policies consistently.

Who is this service designed for?

The service is designed for organizations, including businesses and governmental bodies, that need support in maintaining and improving their fundamental IT security measures.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations may find themselves increasingly reliant on managed security services to bolster their defenses. The success of this model could lead to wider adoption of similar “cyber hygiene” services in the future.