As technology becomes ingrained into our day to day activities, it has also become more complex and diverse. However, not all companies have the capacity to build and manage the necessary IT infrastructure.
For this reason, companies are opting for managed IT services as opposed to having their own in-house IT departments.
What are Managed Services?
Also known as outsourced IT, managed service providers (MSPs) are third-party companies that offer IT infrastructure and the requisite technical support services to businesses.
So what services do MSPs offer?
Networking and Security Solutions
This type of service involves an MSP taking on the networking of an individual company to an onsite infrastructure setup. It can include managed cloud infrastructure, mobile, and wireless networking, managing print services remotely, and/or managing storage and backup options. The service also includes other IT services, which can be controlled remotely or onsite from the provider’s location.
An MSP can also manage all facets of system security including risk assessment and mitigation. This is done through:
- Anti-malware software: MSP installs anti-malware software programs into your organization’s computer system to protect your network from common viruses and related malware.
- Patching and maintenance: This usually involves updating your computer’s OS and software.
- Application compatibility: The service providers ensure that your software programs and hardware are compatible and fully integrated with one another.
Communication Services
This service comes as part of the managed services package and includes:
- Data: Allows sharing and sending of data through mobile devices, desktops, and laptops from any location.
- Voice: Allows audio communication either one-on-one or in multi-party conversations from different locations on mobile phones and fixed lines.
- Audio visual solutions: This allows staff members to take part in video conference calls and webinars from anywhere across the globe as long as there is an internet connection.
Software-as-a-Service
This service involves the MSP offering your company software programs that you can subscribe to on per-year, per-month, or unlimited access basis. The SaaS could be a program that the provider develops or gets from a third party. The most impressive feature of SaaS is that all security patches and updates are installed remotely when available. This way, your staff concentrates on their core business and take comfort knowing all software programs are updated and safe.
Data Analytics
This is where the managed services provider collects and analyzes raw data and then transforms it into meaningful information that is then handed on to your team. That way, you can effectively monitor new market trends as well as take proactive steps that help you remain competitive.
Support Services
In the course of normal business operations, your staff is bound to encounter problems with new software, particular system protocols, or even prompts. Luckily, with a managed services provider, you can call their support center and ask for assistance, which not only saves you time but also money in the long run.
Managed services have made it possible for small businesses to run and operate IT infrastructure that is almost comparable to that found in multinational organizations. This has helped improve productivity and made them more efficient and therefore, better able to serve their customers.