Managed IT services are third-party assistants that handle various IT tasks. In fact, businesses can outsource any competence they require — ranging from site designs to cybersecurity. Outsourced staff is usually located remotely or operates from offshore locations. But what are the actual benefits of managed IT solutions? And why would you want to adopt them? Read on to learn!
Managed IT Services Definition
So, what are managed IT services exactly, and who needs them? Let’s first clarify the definition of IT managed services. It refers to outsourcing IT tasks to a third-party provider, known as a Managed Service Provider (MSP). The approach allows the outsourcing of those specialists partially or hiring them to cover all project needs (including security).
The first information technology solutions of this kind can be traced back to the 1990s when the application service providers (ASPs) were created. ASPs offered businesses remote assistance for their IT infrastructure.
Today, employing outsourced personnel is a common practice, especially for middle- and large-scale businesses. With rising popularity comes an increase in the number of vendors who provide corresponding solutions. Among the variety, it is important to find a managed it support company that is reliable and works with top professionals in your industry.
What are the Benefits of Managed IT Services?
These days, businesses shift more to managing their resources remotely. There are a few reasons for this.
Cost Savings
In-house staff requires lengthy hiring and training, along with skills improvement and social packages. By contrast, MSP subscription plans come at regular prices. However, some unpredictable expenditures may be connected to variable cloud prices. However, these can hardly be comparable to the end cost of in-house personnel.
Expertise and Experience
MSPs bring specialized knowledge, ensuring that IT systems are outsourced efficiently. With them, you won’t need to look for a specialist with particular knowledge. You simply outsource the tasks that require this knowledge and instead focus on some internal initiatives.
Focus on Core Business
Outsourcing IT tasks allows businesses to focus on core, cost-effective activities without IT distractions. It means you won’t have to spend extra time hiring and training.
Besides, outsourced personnel can even bring some fresh perspectives and suggestions for improving your business continuity and company processes as a whole.
Availability 24/7
Managed systems use monitoring technologies to spot breaches or issues in your systems around the clock. This way, you always stay alert about dangers and can handle them quickly to avoid long-term consequences.
Types of Services
Managed tech services can help you with different tasks. Below are some of the core types of managed IT services to know about.
Network and Infrastructure Management
It includes monitoring and maintaining network performance, managing servers, and ensuring reliable connectivity. It is the broadest and most commonly employed type out of all possible information technology solutions. However, new solutions have also emerged with the growing needs in the IT sector.
Security Management
The cybersecurity services provide comprehensive security measures, such as
- threat detection
- prevention,
- and response.
The purpose is to safeguard businesses against cyber attacks. Most commonly, security outsourcing systems partner with various security companies and even complete up to a staggering 100% of all tasks.
Cloud Services
Managed cloud services emerged with the introduction of cloud computing technologies. They commonly commit to cloud management and help with specialized applications and platforms (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), enabling businesses to leverage cloud technology efficiently. They can also consult your business on assessing, managing, and finding the best-fitting cloud solutions.
Communication Services
As the need for intense communication with clients and partners grows, so do the opportunities for outsourcing the solution that focuses on communication. The personnel usually covers all communication channels, such as phone, email, multimedia, and more. Sure, you won’t have to worry about security with such companies. They employ robust encryption and licensing, so you can rely on them for any task.
Data Backup and Recovery
Managed services providers offer data backup solutions and disaster recovery plans to protect business data and ensure quick recovery in case of data loss.
These solutions can also estimate the backup requirements for your project, suggest the desired backup schedule, and recommend the length of backups.
Conclusion
Managed IT solutions are essential for businesses seeking to optimize their IT operations. By outsourcing information technology tasks to experts, companies can save costs, improve security, and focus on core business activities. As you can see, there are many benefits. Ultimately, the choice is yours, but outsourced staff can, indeed, make your project flow much easier.
FAQ
In short, what does managed IT services mean?
They refer to outsourcing IT tasks to a third-party provider. Outsourced personnel can handle security and data backup responsibilities.
And what is included in managed IT services?
These solutions include network and infrastructure handling, security improvement and tracking, cloud solutions, communication, data backup, and recovery.
What are some managed services examples?
Examples of outsourced help include customized security solutions, cloud infrastructure handling, disaster recovery solutions, and managed communication tools.
Why outsource IT solutions for small businesses?
This type of solution allows for cost savings, improved security, and the ability to focus on core business activities.
