What Are Managed IT Services?

Technology plays a central role in how we do business today. But, properly managing this technology for small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMBs) can be overwhelming and time consuming. This is where managed IT services come into play, offering a solution that ensures businesses can focus on their core objectives without being weighed down by IT concerns.

Definition of Managed IT Services

Managed IT services are comprehensive technology solutions provided by third-party companies known as managed service providers (MSPs). These services are designed to handle the entirety of a business’s IT needs, from maintaining and updating systems to ensuring security and offering support.

Managed IT services simplify operations by:

  • taking on the responsibility of ensuring your IT systems are up-to-date, secure, and running smoothly.
  • offering predictable pricing models that can help businesses manage their budgets.
  • providing access to a team of IT professionals with a diverse set of skills and expertise.

What is the Difference Between Managed Services and Managed IT Services?

While the terms “managed services” and “managed IT services are often used interchangeably, technically there are subtle distinctions between the two. Understanding these differences can help to make informed decisions about what types of services you need.

Managed services refers to a broad category of outsourced day-to-day management responsibilities as a strategic method of improving operations and cutting expenses. This can include a range of services beyond just IT, such as managed marketing, managed finance, and more.

Managed IT services, on the other hand, is a subset of managed services specifically focused on the management of a company’s information technology systems. Managed IT services include, but are not limited to, 24/7 network monitoring, on-demand support, cybersecurity services, and cloud services management. The primary goal for MSPs is to ensure an organization’s IT infrastructure is robust, secure, and efficiently supports the operations of the business.

Increase operational efficiency with managed IT services

What is the Difference Between Having an Internal IT Team and a Managed Services Provider (MSP)?

When looking to upgrade their IT, businesses may contemplate between enhancing their IT team or outsourcing to a service provider. Choosing between an internal IT team and an MSP depends on several factors, including the size of your business, budget constraints, and specific IT requirements. An internal IT team focuses on managing IT services in-house with direct oversight and is employed by the company. MSPs on the other hand, provide external managed IT and support services tailored to a business’s needs. Both options have their advantages, but understanding the differences can help you decide which is best suited for your organization.

Internal IT Team

  • Control: Having an in-house IT team offers direct control over all IT activities.
  • Familiarity: Internal teams develop a deep understanding of your business’s operations and culture.
  • Immediate Availability: An in-house team is physically present to address urgent issues.

However, maintaining an internal team can be costly due to salaries, training, and benefits. Additionally, the scope of expertise may be limited to the skills of the current team members.

Managed Service Provider

 

  • Broad Expertise: MSPs bring a wide range of skills and experiences, ensuring all of your IT needs to be met.
  • Cost-Effective: They offer predictable pricing models and can be more affordable than hiring a full team.
  • Scalability: MSPs can quickly adjust your level of services as your business grows.

Co-Managed IT Services

Co-managed IT is a hybrid model that blends the best of both worlds. It allows businesses to have their own internal IT team while also taking advantage of the resources and expertise offered by an MSP. This model is particularly beneficial for companies that:

  • have an IT team but need additional support or specialized skills.
  • want to scale their IT capabilities without significantly increasing overhead.
  • desire 24/7 monitoring and more support than an internal team alone can provide.
Managed services provider working together with an in-house IT team

Services Offered By Managed Service Providers

MSPs offer a wide spectrum of IT services designed to ensure businesses operate smoothly although, each service varies provider to provider. These services not only support day-to-day operations but also strategic planning and implementation. Here are some of the key services most MSPs provide:

Network and Infrastructure Management

MSPs ensure your network and IT infrastructure are robust, reliable, and optimized for performance. This includes managing services, network devices, and connectivity issues.

Cybersecurity Solutions

With cybersecurity threats evolving every day, MSPs offer advanced security measures to protect your business. Services include regular security assessments, monitoring, threat detection and response, firewalls, and antivirus management.

Cloud Services

MSPs can also manage your cloud infrastructure, including migrations, cloud-based backups, and disaster recovery plans. This ensures your business can leverage the cloud’s full potential while maintaining data security and compliance.

Data Backup and Disaster Recovery

Data is the lifeline of any business. MSPs provide comprehensive data backup and disaster recovery solutions to ensure business continuity in the event of data loss or failure.

Read: The Role of MSPs in Data Backup and Disaster Recovery

Help Desk and Support Services

MSPs offer round-the-clock help desk services, providing your employees with immediate assistance for any IT-related issues. This ensures minimal downtime and maintains productivity.

Custom Software Solutions

Beyond standard IT management, some MSPs also offer custom software development services, creating tailored solutions to meet specific business challenges.

Consulting and Strategy

MSPs don’t just manage your IT; they help you plan your technology roadmap. With expertise in the latest technologies, they can advise on IT strategies that align with your business goals, including digital transformation initiatives.

What is the Difference Between Managed Services and Cloud Services?

Managed services and cloud services both play crucial roles in a business’s IT strategy and typically go hand-in hand, but they fulfill different needs. Managed services involve outsourcing IT operations to an external provider, covering everything from preemptive monitoring and cybersecurity to handling technology-related issues, applicable across all tech environments. Meanwhile, cloud services specifically provide access to computing resources like storage and software via the internet, allowing businesses to scale resources according to their needs and pay accordingly. While cloud services focus on delivering specific resources, managed services offer a comprehensive approach to IT management, including the oversight of cloud-based assets.

Cloud floating in server room signifying cloud services

Benefits of Managed IT Services

The benefits of managed IT services extend across various aspects of a business, from enhancing operational efficiency to securing critical data. Here is how partnering with a managed service provider could transform your business:

  • Cost-Savings: Managed IT services eliminate the need for full-time in-house IT staff, reducing overhead costs like salaries, benefits, and training. Instead, businesses benefit from a predictable monthly fee that covers all IT needs, allowing for better budget management and allocation of resources.

  • Access to Expertise: MSPs bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, offering professionals skilled in various domains. This expertise ensure your IT infrastructure is not only up to date with the the latest technology trends but also optimized for performance and security. SMBs in particular find this access invaluable as it levels the playing field with larger competitors.
  • Security: Cybersecurity is a critical concern for businesses today. MSPs provide robust security measures, including regular updates, 24×7 threat monitoring and response strategies to protect against data breaches and cyber threats. This comprehensive security coverage gives business owners peace of mind, knowing their sensitive data is well-protected.

  • Scalability: As businesses grow, their IT needs evolve. Managed IT services offer the flexibility to scale IT resources up or down as required, ensuring the IT infrastructure can support business expansion without the need for significant upfront investment in new hardware or software.

  • Strategic Planning: Beyond day-to-day IT management, MSPs also assist with long-term IT strategy, helping businesses align their technology roadmap with their business goals. This strategic planning ensures technology investments are made wisely, supporting growth and innovation.

  • Focus on Core Operations: Perhaps the most significant benefit is the ability for business owners and their teams to focus on what they do best. With the assurance that your IT is in expert hands, businesses can concentrate on core operations, driving growth and satisfaction.

Managed IT services offer a holistic solution to managing a business’s IT environment, providing a range of benefits from cost savings and access to expertise to enhanced security and strategic planning. By partnering with an MSP, businesses can not only optimize their technology investments but also gain a competitive edge in their industry.

Learn More: How a Managed Services Provider Can Help Your Business Thrive

Threat identification as a managed service

Who Would Benefit Most From Managed Services?

Managed IT services can be a game-changer for a wide array of businesses, but some organizations in particular do benefit more so than others. Here’s a look at which kinds of businesses can gain the most from partnering with a managed services provider:

  • Small and Midsize Businesses (SMBs): SMBs often have limited resources to dedicate to IT management and lack the in-house expertise to handle complex issues. MSPs can provide the comprehensive support businesses need, allowing them to keep their operations running smoothly.

  • Businesses Experiencing Rapid Growth: For companies in growth mode, scaling IT infrastructure can be a challenge. Managed IT services offer scalable solutions that can adjust as the business expands, providing the flexibility needed to support growth without the high costs of expanding an in-house team.

  • Organizations With Strict Compliance Requirements: Industries such as healthcare, finance and legal services face strict regulatory requirements regarding data protection and privacy. MSPs specializing in these sectors can ensure that businesses stay compliant with regulations such as HIPAA, GDPR, and others, avoiding costly fines and reputational damage.

  • Businesses Seeking to Improve Cybersecurity: With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, companies of all sizes need advanced security measures. MSPs offer specialized cybersecurity services, including continuous monitoring, threat detection, and incident response, to protect businesses from cyber attacks.

    Learn more: Cybersecurity Must-Haves for Small Businesses

Managed IT services can provide significant advantages to these businesses, offering not just cost savings and efficiency gains, but also a strategic partnership that supports growth, enhances security, and ensures compliance. By leveraging the expertise and resources of an MSP, businesses can focus on their core competencies and drive their competitive advantage.

The benefit of using managed IT services to automate operations

Conclusion

Leveraging technology is not just an option for businesses; it’s a necessity for growth, competitiveness, and operational excellence. Managed IT services emerge as a pivotal solution for businesses across the spectrum from small startups to rapidly expanding enterprises and those operating in highly regulated industries. By entrusting the complexities of IT managed to expert MSPs, businesses can not only streamline their operations but also secure their data, scale efficiently, and focus on their core objectives.

If you’re ready to transform your IT operations and propel your business forward, it’s time to explore how managed IT services can unlock your potential. Contact us today to discover how we can support your journey towards operational excellence and strategic growth.