Writer: Jordan Sprogis
Editor: Lillian Castro
Reviewer: Cristian Lopez
TL; DR: Isaac Newton once said, “When two forces unite, their efficiency doubles.” Liquid Web, a leading managed hosting provider, and Malwarebytes, a trusted cybersecurity software company, have teamed up to offer Liquid Web’s customers direct access to Malwarebytes’ sophisticated ThreatDown solution. Stephanie Kristek, Liquid Web Product Manager, and Brian Thomas, Malwarebytes SVP of Global Channels, told us about what this collaboration means for its customers and the future of cybersecurity.
Anyone who has ever had their car oil changed knows the worst part is dealing with the mechanic’s upselling.
You go expecting to be out within 20 minutes, but almost immediately, the mechanic begins suggesting additional services. Whether it’s a tire rotation, new brake pads, or an air filter replacement, it always sounds urgent, as if your car will fall apart as soon as you drive off the lot.
Unfortunately, upselling is often part of the experience with certain products and services.
But some things, like cybersecurity, shouldn’t fall into that category. Cybersecurity is not just an optional add-on that companies try to sell you — it’s a necessary safeguard for anyone who’s on the internet.
In July 2024, Liquid Web, a leading web hosting provider, announced its collaboration with cybersecurity company Malwarebytes.
We spoke to Brian Thomas, Malwarebytes SVP of Global Channels, about how the partnership aims to integrate Malwarebytes’ new ThreatDown Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solution as an add-on for Liquid Web’s hosting packages. The product works around the clock to identify, analyze, and neutralize emerging and existing threats.
“This powerful combination enables Liquid Web to ensure their customers’ websites and applications are protected from even the most sophisticated attacks, with measurable before-and-after security score improvements,” said Brian.
A Secure Collaboration for Liquid Web Customers
Founded in 1997, Liquid Web is one of the world’s top web hosting providers, with HostingAdvice experts rating it 4.8 out of 5.0.
Liquid Web’s hosting services are tailored for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) (aptly reflecting its own beginnings as a small business). Nearly 30 years later, Liquid Web continues to strengthen its customers’ online capabilities with flexible managed hosting options for virtual, cloud, and dedicated server hosting.
In addition to flexible VPS, shared web hosting, and cybersecurity solutions, Liquid Web also offers WordPress, Magento, bare metal, and cloud-dedicated hosting.
More than 200,000 businesses trust Liquid Web, as shown by INC. Magazine’s recognition of it as one of the 5,000 Fastest-Growing Companies for more than a dozen consecutive years.
Similarly, Malwarebytes was founded in 2008 as a small startup. It has since grown into a highly-rated cybersecurity company used by millions. Powered by rule-setting AI, its software detects and removes common threats such as viruses, ransomware, spyware, adware, and Trojans.
When Liquid Web announced a merger with Malwarebytes, it shared the goal of including Malwarebytes’ ThreatDown EDR solution for all hosting packages. This solution is part of a bigger picture, where Liquid Web’s main goal is to enhance security on a grand scale and to continuously improve its security options.
The software promises proactive protection against emerging threats (including files and zero-day attacks), helping reduce data breaches, improve website performance, and follow compliance regulations.
“[The merger is] another example of how Liquid Web continues to provide innovative solutions for customers that ensure they remain secure, compliant, and highly performant,” said Stephanie Kristek, Liquid Web Product Manager.
Brian added: “Our partnership with Liquid Web underscores our commitment to take down complexity in cybersecurity.”
Key Features of ThreatDown EDR
If you’re asking, “Why do I need to boost my website’s security even more?”
The answer is simple: As cyberattackers and methods become more sophisticated, security measures have to keep up too.
Basic antivirus programs, for instance, only provide protection against known threats, which means they potentially overlook new or hidden dangers that the software can’t yet identify.
ThreatDown EDR constantly collects and watches over your server’s security information to spot any unusual activity and alert you if there’s a breach.
In addition to staying secure, ThreatDown EDR is also essential for meeting security and compliance standards.
For example, many companies must comply with regulations such as PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), SOC 3 (System and Organization Controls), and HIPAA/HITECH (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act/Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act).
We’ll dive deeper later, but here’s a peek at what customers can expect with ThreatDown EDR:
- Proactive threat detection: Continuously monitors suspicious activity to identify threats before they have the chance to cause damage
- Automated response: Automatic response to threats by isolating infected systems or blocking malicious traffic
- Enhanced compliance: Console capabilities and reporting help customers meet strict industry compliance standards
ThreatDown EDR is available with Liquid Web as a hosting package add-on for $30 per month per server.
Inside the Malwarebytes ThreatDown EDR Solution
ThreatDown EDR is a great option for small to midsize organizations that handle sensitive customer data, such as those in the healthcare, finance, education, and retail sectors.
This need is especially important for smaller eCommerce stores. All too often, SBOs mistakenly believe they aren’t susceptible to cyberattackers when in reality, businesses with weaker security measures are the ones most often targeted.
Here’s a more detailed look at the security solution’s processes and how Liquid Web connects its customers to the EDR solution.
Threat Monitoring
ThreatDown EDR uses an agent-based system to continuously monitor security data on your server and detect potential threats or anomalies in real time using AI-powered intelligent rulesets. The Malwarebytes security team also double-checks that file components remain unchanged and free from unauthorized access or tampering.
Intrusion Detection
ThreatDown EDR is like a 24/7 radar, so it can accurately detect signs of intrusion by monitoring logins, user and file access, and permission levels. The security experts also continuously analyze network traffic to identify, respond to, and mitigate potential threats.
24/7 Rapid Response
When a threat is detected, you’ll be notified immediately and kept informed during the investigation and resolution process. Malwarebytes’ response team uses F5 AIP (a protocol that offers visibility into infrastructure), making it easier to detect and respond to security incidents promptly.
“The ThreatDown multi-tenant console provides a unified interface for a holistic view of customer endpoint security,” Brian added. “Layered on top is our Security Advisor dashboard, which offers one-click insights into overall security posture and provides actionable recommendations for quick improvements.”
Learn more about the ThreatDown EDR add-on here. For just $30/month/server, you’ll get round-the-clock monitoring and care with automatic reports for security and compliance needs. If you’re not yet a Liquid Web user and want a trusted web host provider for your business, get started here.
