Managed IT Services: What Services Are Included?
Why Managed IT Services Matter
What is included in managed IT services? This is a crucial question for any growing business looking to streamline IT operations and improve productivity. Managed IT services can cover:
- Remote monitoring and management
- Security services
- Cloud services
- Communication support
When you choose managed IT services, you’re not just outsourcing individual tasks. You’re investing in a comprehensive IT solution that covers everything from network security to cloud storage.
Why is this important? Because as your business grows, so does the complexity of your IT infrastructure. Keeping up with these demands can strain your internal team and budget. That’s where managed IT services come in.
Key Benefits:
1. Reduced IT spending: Lower costs compared to hiring an in-house team.
2. Expert knowledge: Access to specialists in various IT fields.
3. Dependable service: Around-the-clock support and proactive monitoring.
4. Improved security: Up-to-date compliance and cybersecurity measures.
I’m Reade Taylor, an ex-IBM Internet Security Systems engineer and founder of Cyber Command. With years of experience, I know the importance of aligning IT services with business goals to drive growth and efficiency.
Stay tuned as I dive deeper into what is included in managed IT services and how it can benefit your business.
What is Included in Managed IT Services?
Types of Managed IT Services
Managed IT services come in various types, each designed to handle specific business needs. Here are the main types:
Remote Monitoring
Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools allow MSPs to watch over your IT infrastructure from a distance. They can catch issues before they become big problems, like a server overheating. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and keeps your operations smooth.
Security Services
With the rise of cyber threats, managed security services are more critical than ever. These services include:
- Penetration testing
- Threat hunting
- Incident response
For instance, an MSP might implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to secure your systems. They can also conduct regular risk assessments to keep your defenses strong.
Cloud Services
Migrating to the cloud can be daunting. Cloud services from an MSP can guide you through the process, from setting up cloud storage to managing cloud-based applications. They can also monitor your cloud environment to ensure everything runs efficiently.
Communication Support
Effective communication is key to any business. Communication services include managing VoIP systems, video conferencing tools, and other platforms. This ensures that your team can communicate seamlessly, whether they’re in the office or working remotely.
Networks and Infrastructure
Managed Networks and Infrastructure
This service type involves establishing local area networks (LANs), wireless application protocols (WAPs), and managed firewall services. Backup and storage options also fall under this category, making your network infrastructure secure and available.
Managed Security
This service addresses business security needs. It includes everything from backup and disaster recovery (BDR) solutions to anti-malware options, covering threat, cloud, infrastructure, data, identity, and response management.
Managed Support Services
Managed IT support services range from troubleshooting to addressing advanced issues. Coverage options can be custom to your business needs, from regular hours to 24/7 support. This ensures that potential disruptions are predicted and remediated before they impact your business.
Managed Print Services
Printing can be a hassle. Managed print services take care of your printing needs, from maintaining printers to managing print jobs. This ensures your printing operations are efficient and cost-effective.
Cloud Infrastructure
Cloud infrastructure services help clients take their existing infrastructure and make it virtual. MSPs guide clients through the transition to a cloud environment, offering services like cloud-based remote monitoring and management (RMM) software.
SaaS (Software as a Service)
SaaS solutions involve the delivery and management of software applications over the internet. MSPs can help businesses implement and manage these applications, ensuring they are always up-to-date and running smoothly.
Wireless and Mobile Computing
Wireless and mobile computing services ensure that your team can work efficiently from anywhere. MSPs manage the setup and maintenance of wireless networks and mobile devices, keeping your team connected and productive.
Communication Services
Communication services include managing VoIP systems, video conferencing tools, and other communication platforms. This ensures seamless communication within your team and with clients.
Data Analytics
Data analytics services help you make sense of your data, providing insights that can drive business decisions. MSPs implement tools that analyze your data and generate reports, helping you spot trends and opportunities.
Common Managed IT Services Models
Managed IT services can be delivered in different models, depending on your business needs:
Fully Managed
In a fully managed model, the MSP handles all aspects of your IT infrastructure. This includes monitoring, maintenance, security, and support. This model is ideal for businesses that want to offload their entire IT burden.
Partially Managed
In a partially managed model, the MSP handles specific parts of your IT infrastructure. This could include just the security services or cloud management. This model is suitable for businesses that have an in-house IT team but need additional support.
Co-managed
In a co-managed model, the MSP works alongside your in-house IT team. They share responsibilities and collaborate on tasks. This model is ideal for businesses that want to improve their existing IT capabilities without fully outsourcing.
Stay tuned as we dig into the benefits of managed IT services and how they can improve your business efficiency.
Benefits of Managed IT Services
How Managed IT Services Improve Business Efficiency
Managed IT services can significantly improve business efficiency by addressing several key areas:
Cost Savings
Outsourcing IT functions to a managed service provider (MSP) can save businesses a lot of money. Instead of hiring full-time IT staff, you pay a predictable monthly fee. This eliminates the need for recruiting, hiring, and training IT employees, reducing overhead costs.
Example: A small business that switched to managed IT services reported saving 25% on IT costs. They avoided unexpected expenses, like system repairs or emergency fixes, which often disrupt budgets.
Reliability
MSPs offer 24/7 monitoring and support, ensuring that your IT systems are always up and running. This proactive approach helps catch issues before they become major problems, reducing downtime and maintaining business continuity.
Fact: Businesses using managed IT services experience 50% less downtime compared to those relying on in-house IT teams.
Skills Gap
MSPs employ highly skilled engineers which can be difficult for small and medium-sized businesses to recruit and afford. When partnered with a MSP, smaller companies can gain access to top-notch IT administrators with specific skills, qualifications, training, certifications, and experience specific to your industry.
Scalability
As your business grows, your IT needs will change. Managed IT services provide the flexibility to scale operations up or down based on demand. This ensures your IT infrastructure can adapt quickly to market changes.
Quote: “Managed IT services have allowed us to scale our operations seamlessly,” said the CEO of a growing e-commerce company.
IT Productivity
Outsourcing IT tasks to managed services can free your teams to focus on revenue-generating tasks. These providers can also often provide guidance or recommendations to help you optimize the performance of your infrastructure. This can lead to increases in productivity and improved ROI.
Operational Cost
Managed IT services help businesses avoid the high costs associated with maintaining an in-house IT department. This includes salaries, benefits, and ongoing training for IT staff. With predictable pricing and reduced overhead, businesses can allocate their IT budgets more efficiently.
Innovation Focus
Innovation is essential for staying competitive. Managed IT services enable businesses to adopt new technologies quickly and efficiently. MSPs provide the expertise needed to implement these technologies, ensuring they align with business goals and improve operations.
Example: A small bakery decided to implement an online ordering system to reach more customers. The MSP designed and implemented the system, allowing the bakery to increase its sales by 30% within six months.
Predictable Budgeting
MSPs typically offer subscription-based models. This means you know exactly what you’re paying for each month, making budgeting simpler and more accurate.
Strategic Advantages for Businesses
Managed IT services provide several strategic advantages for businesses:
Competitive Edge
By leveraging managed IT services, businesses can enjoy access to the latest technology and expertise. This enables them to stay ahead of competitors and respond quickly to market changes.
Compliance
IT initiatives in some business areas must meet strict standards and requirements as many governments and industry groups have specific rules in regards to privacy, financial services, retail establishments, and reporting and security in healthcare. Managed providers are well-versed with such standards and are able to comply with them.
Cybersecurity
MSPs often include cybersecurity services as part of their offerings. This ensures the protection of sensitive data and helps businesses comply with industry regulations.
Example: Managed IT services can help businesses adhere to standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOX, ensuring data protection and regulatory compliance.
Access to Latest Technology
An IT support company also provides your business with access to the newest technology on the market, and that technology can be implemented quickly and smoothly. This ensures your IT infrastructure is always up-to-date and efficient.
Stay tuned as we dig into the key components of managed IT services and explore the essential tools and technologies used.
Key Components of Managed IT Services
Essential Tools and Technologies Used
When we talk about what is included in managed IT services, it’s crucial to understand the key components that make up these services. These components ensure your IT infrastructure runs smoothly, securely, and efficiently. Let’s dive into the essential tools and technologies used in managed IT services.
IT Infrastructure
At the core of managed IT services is the robust IT infrastructure. This includes everything from servers and storage systems to network devices and software applications. Managed service providers (MSPs) ensure your infrastructure is well-maintained, updated, and optimized to meet your business needs. This includes routine maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting to prevent any disruptions.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is a top priority for any business. MSPs offer comprehensive cybersecurity solutions such as antivirus software, firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems. They also conduct regular threat assessments and vulnerability scans to protect your data from cyber threats.
For example, penetration testing and threat hunting are proactive measures MSPs take to identify and mitigate potential security risks before they become major issues.
User Support
User support is another critical component. This includes help desk services, remote assistance, and on-site support. MSPs provide 24/7 support to address any IT issues your employees might face, from software glitches to hardware failures. This ensures minimal downtime and keeps your business operations running smoothly.
Data Management
Effective data management is essential for any business. MSPs help with data backup, recovery, and storage solutions. They ensure your data is securely stored and easily accessible when needed. Regular backups and disaster recovery plans are put in place to minimize data loss and ensure business continuity.
Network Management
Network management involves monitoring and maintaining your network to ensure optimal performance. MSPs use tools to track network traffic, manage bandwidth, and troubleshoot connectivity issues. They also implement measures like managed firewall services and VPNs to secure your network from unauthorized access.
Cloud Platforms
Cloud platforms are increasingly becoming a staple in managed IT services. MSPs help businesses migrate to the cloud, manage cloud infrastructure, and provide ongoing support. This includes services like IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), which offers scalable and flexible cloud solutions custom to your business needs.
Security Software
MSPs deploy security software to protect your IT environment. This includes antivirus programs, anti-malware tools, and spam filters. Regular updates and patches are applied to keep your systems secure against the latest threats.
Remote Monitoring Tools
Remote monitoring tools are essential for MSPs to keep an eye on your IT infrastructure. These tools allow MSPs to monitor your systems in real-time, detect issues early, and resolve them before they impact your business. RMM (Remote Monitoring and Management) software is a key component here, providing continuous oversight and maintenance.
Automation Tools
Automation tools help MSPs streamline IT operations. Tasks like software updates, backups, and security scans can be automated to improve efficiency and reduce manual intervention. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency and reliability in IT processes.
Stay tuned as we further explore the difference between managed IT services and cloud services and how Cyber Command can help you leverage these technologies for your business.
Managed IT Services and Cloud Services: Understanding the Difference
Exploring Cloud Services from Cyber Command
Cloud services and managed IT services often intersect, but they are distinct in their offerings and functionalities. Let’s explore what Cyber Command brings to the table with its cloud services.
Managed Platforms
Cyber Command provides managed platforms, which are hosted environments where applications can run without the need for clients to manage the underlying infrastructure. This includes everything from servers to network resources. By utilizing managed platforms, businesses can focus on their core operations while Cyber Command ensures the platform is secure, updated, and running smoothly.
Application Services
Application services are crucial for building and connecting applications efficiently. Cyber Command offers a broad portfolio of on-demand application services custom to meet various business needs. For example, with Red Hat OpenShift, developers can deploy and scale cloud-native applications seamlessly. These services help in accelerating development cycles and improving application performance.
Data Services
Data services from Cyber Command provide on-demand access to data storage, preparation, and analysis. This includes tools for managing the entire lifecycle of AI/ML experiments and models through Red Hat OpenShift AI and Data Science. These services enable data scientists and developers to work more effectively, turning raw data into actionable insights.
Infrastructure Management
Infrastructure management is another critical aspect of Cyber Command’s offerings. This includes the management of both on-premises IT and private cloud storage. By outsourcing infrastructure management, businesses can ensure their IT environment is optimized for performance, security, and scalability without the overhead of maintaining it themselves.
Hosted Services
Cyber Command’s hosted services cover a range of solutions, from managed databases to full application hosting. These services are designed to reduce the operational burden on businesses, allowing them to leverage advanced technologies without the complexities of managing them in-house.
Managed Operations
With managed operations, Cyber Command takes care of the day-to-day management tasks, including system monitoring, updates, and security patches. This proactive approach helps prevent issues before they occur, ensuring high availability and reliability of IT services.
Application Velocity
One of the standout benefits of Cyber Command’s services is increased application velocity. By providing a streamlined experience across services and clouds, development teams can release new features and updates faster. This agility is crucial in today’s business environment.
Hybrid Cloud Environments
Lastly, Cyber Command supports hybrid cloud environments, allowing businesses to run applications across multiple cloud platforms seamlessly. This flexibility ensures that organizations can choose the best environment for each workload, optimizing performance and cost-effectiveness.
Stay tuned as we answer some frequently asked questions about managed IT services and help you understand how to choose the right provider for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions about Managed IT Services
What exactly does a managed IT service provider do?
A managed IT service provider (MSP) takes over the responsibility for managing your company’s IT infrastructure and end-user systems. This includes remote monitoring and management of hardware and software, cybersecurity services like threat hunting and incident response, cloud services for managing cloud-based applications, and communication support such as VoIP services. MSPs ensure that your IT services run smoothly, securely, and efficiently, allowing you to focus on core business activities.
How do managed IT services save costs for businesses?
Managed IT services help businesses save costs in several ways:
-
Predictable Budgeting: MSPs offer subscription-based services, enabling businesses to predict monthly, quarterly, or annual IT expenses. This helps in managing budgets more effectively.
-
Reduced Overhead: By outsourcing IT tasks, businesses can avoid the costs associated with hiring, training, and maintaining an in-house IT team. Instead, they pay only for the services they need.
-
Access to Latest Technology: MSPs provide access to the latest technologies and updates as part of their service. This eliminates the need for businesses to make significant investments in new technology.
-
Scalability: Businesses can scale their IT services up or down based on their needs without worrying about the costs of over-provisioning or under-provisioning resources.
What should businesses look for when choosing a managed IT service provider?
When selecting a managed IT service provider, consider the following factors:
-
Provider Expertise: Ensure the provider has a proven track record in your industry. Ask for case studies or references to verify their experience and technical know-how.
-
Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Look for clear SLAs that define the provider’s responsibilities, response times, resolution times, and uptime guarantees. Ensure there are penalties for non-compliance.
-
Compliance and Security Standards: The provider should meet all relevant compliance requirements like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS. They should also offer robust security measures, including encryption and regular security audits.
-
Assessment Needs: Before signing a contract, the provider should conduct a thorough assessment of your current IT infrastructure to identify gaps and plan for future needs. Regular assessments should be part of the service to ensure optimal and secure IT environments.
-
Scalability: The provider should be able to scale their services as your business grows. Look for flexible pricing plans that can adapt to your changing needs.
By keeping these considerations in mind, you can find a managed IT service provider that aligns well with your business needs and helps you achieve your goals.
Next, we’ll dig into how managed IT services can save costs for businesses and improve overall efficiency.
Conclusion
Future Trends
The landscape of managed IT services is constantly evolving. Here are some key trends to watch:
- Edge Computing: This technology processes data closer to where it’s generated. It reduces latency and improves speed, making it ideal for real-time applications like IoT.
- AI and Automation: AI-driven tools and robotic process automation (RPA) are becoming essential. They help with proactive monitoring, threat detection, and routine IT tasks, allowing MSPs to offer faster and more efficient services.
- Quantum Computing: Though still in its infancy, quantum computing promises to revolutionize data processing and encryption. Keeping an eye on its development is crucial for future-proofing IT strategies.
- Improved Cybersecurity: With cyber threats constantly evolving, MSPs need advanced security measures like zero-trust architecture and AI-based threat detection.
Cyber Command’s Unique Offerings
At Cyber Command, we are committed to helping your business thrive with our comprehensive managed IT services. Here’s why we stand out:
- All-in-One Solution: We offer a complete range of services, from cybersecurity to cloud management, custom to meet your specific needs.
- 24/7 Support: Our team is available around the clock to ensure your IT systems are always running smoothly.
- Predictable Costs: With our fixed monthly pricing, you can budget your IT expenses more effectively and avoid unexpected costs.
- Business Growth Focus: We align our IT strategies with your business goals to help you scale and grow efficiently.
Ready to take your IT to the next level? Learn more about our managed IT services and how we can help your business succeed.
Aligning Technology with Business Goals
In the IT world, standing still is not an option. Continuous improvement is the key to staying relevant and effective:
- Regular Training: Our team undergoes regular training to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices.
- Client Feedback: We actively seek feedback from our clients to identify areas for improvement and to ensure we meet their evolving needs.
- Proactive Monitoring: By continuously monitoring your IT environment, we can identify potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring minimal downtime and improved productivity.
- Adapting to Trends: We keep a close eye on emerging trends and integrate them into our service offerings to provide cutting-edge solutions.
The journey to effective IT management is ongoing, but with the right partner by your side, you can steer the complexities and open up new possibilities. Let’s accept the future together and leverage the power of managed IT services for a more efficient, secure, and innovative business.
By choosing Cyber Command, you’re not just getting an IT service provider; you’re gaining a business partner dedicated to your long-term success.
