Managed Detection and Response (MDR)

Managed Detection and Response (MDR) is a cybersecurity service model that combines technology, threat intelligence, and human expertise to continuously monitor environments, detect suspicious behavior, and respond to threats in real time. At its core, MDR supports detection and response cybersecurity by reaching beyond standalone cybersecurity software to deliver active monitoring, investigation, and containment. Organizations adopt MDR to strengthen their threat response plans for cybersecurity, particularly as attack surfaces expand through cloud services, remote work, and increased reliance on third parties. Rather than relying solely on internal teams, MDR helps identify security events early, thus enabling quick action, reducing dwell time, and limiting potential damage.

A critical component of effective MDR is visibility into access, especially when third parties are involved. Many security incidents originate from compromised credentials or excessive permissions tied to vendors and subcontractors. MDR programs, therefore, place strong emphasis on credential monitoring, the ability to visualize who is using what systems, and the capability to see what systems vendors have access to at any given time. This visibility supports outside vendor risk management by enabling organizations to monitor vendor and subcontractor access to systems, apply vendor access flags when anomalous behavior occurs, and monitor vendor activity for signs of misuse or compromise. Without this level of insight, detection and response efforts are often delayed or incomplete.

Security protocols that support MDR typically include least-privilege access enforcement, continuous monitoring, and rapid containment workflows. Organizations need the ability to revoke and approve vendor access dynamically, rather than relying on static accounts that persist long after a project ends. A centralized password vault for business, combined with session monitoring and audit trails, helps reduce credential sprawl and limits exposure if an account is compromised. When paired with MDR, these controls allow security teams to respond decisively, isolating affected accounts and cutting off access before threats escalate. This approach shifts MDR from a reactive model to one that actively prevents incidents by reducing the attack surface.

Imprivata supports Managed Detection and Response strategies through Imprivata Vendor Privileged Access Management (VPAM), which provides software to manage vendor access across critical systems and online tools. As a vendor access solution, VPAM provides a centralized platform to manage vendor access to online tools with secure credential management, session monitoring, and clear visibility into third-party activity. By enabling organizations to monitor vendor activity, securely manage credentials, and enforce consistent access controls, Imprivata VPAM strengthens MDR outcomes and helps organizations move from simply detecting threats to proactively reducing vendor-related risk.