A UK-based private equity firm partnered with Central Networks to implement a fully managed MDR solution with a 24/7 SOC.
The goal was to enhance their security across both their endpoints and their Identities while keeping costs under control – a key concern for a business handling sensitive data with a lean internal IT team.
Client Background
The client is a UK private equity firm with a long-standing track record of investing in ambitious businesses across the UK. With approximately 65 users and a single internal IT lead, the business prioritised security – particularly across its Microsoft 365 environment where large volumes of sensitive information is stored and accessed daily.
Prior to working with Central Networks, the firm relied on 3rd party product for antivirus protection, but wanted to take a more strategic and comprehensive approach to threat detection and response.
The Challenge
As a growing private equity firm with large volumes of high value data, the company recognised the need to strengthen its cybersecurity posture further – particularly out of hours when internal resource wasn’t available to monitor alerts.
Key drivers included:
- The need for continuous 24/7 monitoring
- Protection not just at endpoint level but across Microsoft identities
- Limited internal bandwidth to respond to alerts or investigate threats
- Desire to reduce tooling overlap and improve cost efficiency
The Solution
Central Networks implemented a fully managed MDR service with a 24/7 Security Operations Centre (SOC). This included continuous threat monitoring and response, with the service tailored to the firm’s specific setup and security requirements.
- 24/7 threat monitoring and response
- Continuous support from the cyber and service desk team
Crucially, the service was designed to maximise the firm’s existing licences – eliminating the need (and cost) for third-party antivirus tools.
The Result
The firm has significantly increased visibility and protection across both endpoints and user identities. With alerts managed by Central’s security team around the clock, internal IT is no longer burdened with monitoring or response – freeing up time and reducing operational risk.
The leadership team has also responded positively, appreciating that cybersecurity is being prioritised and confident in discussing these measures with both customers and investors.
Key outcomes:
- Strengthened protection across their core systems and identities
- Maximised use of their existing IT environment to deliver cost efficiencies
- 24/7 coverage that supports operational growth
- Increased confidence from the board and internal stakeholders
- Simplified internal reporting using the MDR reports
Summary
By partnering with Central Networks, the private equity firm unlocked a smarter, more cost-effective approach to cybersecurity. Through a tailored MDR solution that worked with their Microsoft environment, the firm gained peace of mind, stronger defence, and a service that grows with their business.
“Central Networks took control of the project from the get-go and worked with us to ensure that all of our specific requirements were met, including replicating our current configuration to ensure we didn’t regress. Their technical staff were knowledgeable, helpful and ensured that we were kept up to speed on the configuration and the aftercare after deployment was top-notch. The system they put in place has enabled us to feel more confident in our cyber security and the monthly reports are very useful to report back to the board on our current threat profile.”
– IT Manager, Private Equity Firm
