Information technology (IT) is a very crucial part of any organization. It is a necessary piece that businesses need to remain competitive in the ever-demanding global market. Over the years, the field of IT has experienced tremendous change; however, not all businesses have keyed into the recent trends. It could be for their lack of resources to build a team of IT experts, especially for small and medium-sized companies.
As an alternate solution, many businesses adopt managed IT services to stay afloat with the competition and manage their technical needs. IT support experts serving Raleigh, and nearby areas offer a variety of services to help businesses like yours with their needs.
What are Managed IT Services
Managed IT services are a process by which companies outsource their IT tasks to third-party organizations. These third-party organizations are commonly referred to as Managed service providers, MSP for short.
When contacted by a company, managed service providers basically assume control of the company’s IT support, maintenance, and problem resolution. They can also assume responsibilities for a wide range of processes to improve performance. An MSP can either act as a company’s primary IT resource or as an extension of its IT team.
By handling more complex, and tedious IT tasks, MSPs offer some valuable benefits to businesses. First, they take away the burden of IT complexities, providing the company’s employees with additional time and resources to focus on other innovative ideas and projects. In addition, they provide a wide range of different services that are targeted at improving the company’s overall performance and also help them to achieve their goals.
Services Provided by Managed Service Providers
There are different types of services offered by various MSPs. That is to say; not all MSPs offer all types of services. While some may offer a wide range of services, others may offer only a handful or may even specialize in specific areas. So, it is important you have a clear agreement with your MSP to make sure you have a complete understanding of what services is required of them. However, regardless of which MSP you intend to work with, here are some services that you can expect from them.
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Network Management and Monitoring
This service allows an MSP to take responsibility for all network-related tasks, which may include establishing local area networks (LAN), Wide area networks (WAN), and other various connections. They can also manage backup and storage options.
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Help-desk Support Services
This is one of the common services provided by MSPs. It involves all services that are concerned with IT help which includes troubleshooting and more technical issues.
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Communication Management Services
This typically covers various communication infrastructures such as data, video, messaging software, and voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP). In some instances, MSPs can function as a company’s third-party call center.
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Management of Software as a Service (SaaS)
MSPs offering this type of service typically provide a software platform, usually subscription-based, for their clients. Some software platforms they may provide are anti-virus software, office 365, and universal communication software.
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Wireless and Mobile Computing Management
This service is particularly useful for companies that lack the resources to set up their own. The companies utilize MSPs to implement wireless connections and may even use them as their internal network.
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Print Services Management
Print services management is ideal for companies that have complexities in file management. These companies can solve their file management problems by adopting MSPs to assist remotely with data and file organization.
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Cloud Infrastructure Management
Cloud infrastructure management is a more in-depth service offered by MSPs. It includes storage, computing, network, and IT management. Some MSPs may also provide virtualization services for operating systems, apps, software, and more.
Other services that can be provided by MSPs include cyber security and risk management, backup and recovery services, installations and upgrade management, provision of web hosting, monitoring and reporting performance, etc.
Benefits of Managed IT Services
Managed IT services provide a lot of benefits to businesses, some of which include the following.
- Help to fill employment gaps.
- Provide access to IT experts
- Increase work efficiency
- Provide increased scalability and flexibility
- Increase security and minimize risks
- Provide remote support
- Provide better cost efficiency
Working with MSPs gives you access to a wide range of knowledge, skill set, and experience from certified IT experts. Their expertise enables them to provide solutions to your needs and implement strategies that can increase your company’s performance.