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MDR vs. XDR: What’s the Right Fit for Your Business?
Switch Off Delayed to 2027: Why Your Business Should Still Act Now
24th September 2025
As cyber threats become more sophisticated, businesses need more than just basic protection. Two of the most talked-about solutions today are Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and Extended Detection and Response (XDR). But what do they actually mean and which one is right for your organisation?
At HBT Communications, we help businesses navigate the cybersecurity landscape with clarity. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand the difference between MDR and XDR:
🔍 MDR vs. XDR – A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | MDR (Managed Detection & Response) | XDR (Extended Detection & Response) |
| Scope | Focuses on endpoint detection and response, often outsourced to a SOC | Integrates multiple security layers (endpoint, network, email, cloud) into one platform |
| Threat Detection | Uses behavioural analytics and threat intelligence to detect anomalies | Correlates data across systems for deeper threat visibility |
| Response Capabilities | Human-led response, often includes 24/7 monitoring and incident handling | Automated and coordinated response across integrated systems |
| Deployment | Typically agent-based on endpoints, managed externally | Requires integration with existing infrastructure and tools |
| Visibility | Limited to endpoints and logs provided to the SOC | Broad visibility across all connected security tools and data sources |
| Management | Fully managed by third-party experts | Can be managed internally or externally depending on setup |
| Ideal For | SMEs needing expert support without internal SOC | Organisations with complex environments seeking unified threat management |
| Cost | Subscription-based, often per endpoint | Varies by vendor and integration complexity |
🤔 Which Should You Choose?
- Go with MDR if you want expert support without building an internal security team. It’s ideal for small to medium businesses that need round-the-clock protection but don’t have the resources for a full SOC.
- Consider XDR if your organisation has multiple security tools and needs a unified view of threats across systems. It’s a powerful option for businesses with complex IT environments or compliance requirements.
💬 How HBT Can Help
We work with a range of cybersecurity providers to help you choose and implement the right solution. Whether you’re exploring MDR for the first time or ready to scale up with XDR, our team can guide you through:
- Risk assessments
- Supplier comparisons
- Deployment and support
📩 Ready to Talk?
Let’s find the right cybersecurity strategy for your business. Get in touch with HBT Communications today.
