Your IT infrastructure is an integral piece of your business, but it is also a delicate ecosystem. Managing it correctly can be complex and demanding, often requiring expertise and resources that may not be readily available – and one mistake can lead to extended, unplanned downtime that will cost your business more money the longer it continues. This is where managed service providers come into play. Businesses are increasingly turning to managed IT to handle daily tasks, improve efficiency, and increase security.
But should you join them? And what should you expect from managed IT support?
What Are Managed IT Services?
Managed IT services involve outsourcing the management and support of your IT infrastructure to a third party provider, referred to above as a managed service provider or MSP. The MSP will typically offer a wide range of services, revolving around IT management, security, and support. They will usually charge on a subscription-based model.
Benefits of Managed IT Services
Managed IT services provide many advantages that you should consider when deciding whether they are right for you.
- Cost Efficiency: MSPs provide a cost-effective solution by eliminating the need for an in-house IT team. The predictable billing structure helps you plan ahead.
- Expertise and Experience: MSPs are staffed with skilled professionals, who are up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices. They also often have a wider variety of skills than a smaller, in-house IT team would be able to provide.
- Proactive Approach: Unlike the traditional reactive model, managed IT support focuses on proactive monitoring and maintenance. MSPs will identify potential issues and resolve them before they can cause a negative impact. This minimizes disruptions.
- Enhanced Security: Comprehensive cybersecurity measures like next-generation firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits are implemented to protect your business from cyber threats.
- Scalability: Managed IT services will usually offer flexible service packages, allowing you to scale up or down depending on your needs. This allows you to stay agile and responsive to market demands.
- Focus on Core Business: With IT taken care of, you and your employees will be able to focus on your primary roles – not constant technical issues.
Core Services
Below are some of the main services typically provided by MSPs. Keep in mind that a given provider may offer some or all, potentially under different service packages.
- Network and Infrastructure Management: MSPs handle network administration and maintenance, ensuring continuity and optimal performance. This includes monitoring network traffic, managing hardware and software, and troubleshooting issues.
- Cybersecurity: Security solutions and/or services are provided to protect against cyber threats.
- Data Backup and Disaster Recovery: MSPs ensure that data is regularly backed up and can be quickly restored in the event of a disaster. They develop and implement disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime and data loss.
- Helpdesk Support: Providers often offer 24/7 support to address technical issues faced by employees. This includes troubleshooting hardware and software problems, and providing guidance on IT-related queries.
- Cloud Services: Many MSPs provide cloud solutions, including cloud storage, computing, and software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications. They may assist with cloud migration, management, and optimization.
Choosing the Right MSP
Once you have made the decision to use managed IT services, selecting an MSP is the next challenge you will face. The right choice will depend on a number of factors.
- Assess Your Needs: Identify your business needs, and find an MSP that offers services tailored to those requirements. Consider factors such as the size of your business, industry regulations, and future growth plans.
- Evaluate Experience and Expertise: Look for a proven track record and extensive experience in managing IT services. Check credentials, certifications, and client testimonials to ensure they have the expertise to meet your needs.
- Scalability and Flexibility: Choose an MSP that can scale their services as your business needs change.
- Security Measures: Ensure they have sufficient cybersecurity practices in place to protect your data and systems.
- Support and Communication: Effective communication and reliable support are essential for a successful partnership. Choose an MSP that offers responsive support and maintains clear communication channels.
Find Your Perfect MSP Fit
The benefits of managed IT services are clear – lower costs, improved operational efficiency, and better security all make MSPs a highly attractive option for businesses. But it is important to have a full understanding of your own requirements, current infrastructure, and goals in order to choose the right one for you.
The IT experts at Soaring Towers provide comprehensive managed services, designed to support you 24/7 and keep your IT running smoothly. We focus on fixing small issues before they have the chance to turn into big problems, so you can focus on what you’re best at. Discover our managed IT services to learn more.