What are managed IT services?

Managed IT services are simply services provided by an IT company to help clients with maintenance of their IT infrastructure: their network, hardware, software, and security.

Depending on different providers and client’s needs they can cover many different IT areas. In most cases it consists of loading a piece of software on client’s systems (servers as well as workstations) that monitors the health of a system and informs the IT provider of any errors and system glitches that occur during normal operation and can be dealt with on ongoing bases preventing their compounding resulting in a system crush, as well as, allowing for scheduling software security updates to not collide with business operating hours, preventing work interruption. This maintenance allows systems to run for many years without major interruptions which cost a business time and money.

Another part of the managed services is ensuring the proper running of a good, modern antivirus software. Again, I am using the term “antivirus” to make things easier because the modern solutions cover many more safeguards from online threats (might include malware and ransomware detection, secure gateway, end point protection etc.). A managed solution allows real-time threat detection and containment of possible problems before they happen as well as ensures that protections software actually runs on the systems and is being updated regularly. These updates are vital to maintaining proper security.

Managed backup solutions should be a part of the managed services as well. How does it differ from a normal backup? It differs quite a lot from an old fashion solution. When backup is being managed, service provider makes sure that such backup actually runs when it supposed to and is being tested from time to time to ensure that it is not corrupted. And yes, the Cloud needs to be backed up as well (OneDrive or Google Drive are NOT backup solutions and will be affected by, say, ransomware the same as the systems themselves).

For any business (micro, small and large) there are 5 main benefits of engaging an IT company to provide managed services.

1. A proactive approach: we all know that prevention is much more cost effective than dealing with an emergency. Spotting and dealing with problems quickly saves time and money and prevents frequent system failures. This, in turn, not only provides a very stable environment to work with (increasing efficiency), but also ensures strong returns on technology investment.

2. Cost control: pricing matches your business needs and is, in most cases stable, allowing for easy budgeting. Planned maintenance permits uninterrupted work time and prevents cost of equipment failure and lost productivity.

3. Business continuity: tailored to company needs, rigorous data protection ensures your access to it when you need it without a need and additional costs of data recovery or having to re-create records or re-purchase of designs, drawings etc.

4. Peace of mind: with layered security approach and modern protection from viruses, hackers, phishing attacks and 24/7 vigilance by experienced techs, behind the scenes, your chances of security breach diminish drastically.

5. Enhanced business performance: fast working and fail free computers allow your employees to work efficiently, without computer related frequent interruptions. Cost of maintenance is decreased and with a help of IT provider familiar with your operations you can easily plan any technology upgrades necessary to stay ahead of your competition.

In conclusion: don’t be scared of managed IT services. Find a good reliable IT company that offers a wide range of services and can tailor them to your needs. This service does not have to be expensive, and it is well worth investing in it. You might think you are too small to bother, but if your computer is necessary for functioning of your business – and they are becoming more and more important, you want to make sure that it is secure and well maintained. Even if you are using your computer “only” for accounting and administrative purposes, communication with suppliers and clients of your business (you never know when a copy of communication with them won’t save your bacon in future litigation, for example) it is important to ensure it’s well functioning and security. In today’s world a company cannot afford lack of security. By ensuring this peace of mind managed IT services allow you to safely concentrate on building your business and planning future world domination 😉

For more information about what type of service would meet your company needs book a free consultation now.

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