Managed IT services are information technology tasks that are outsourced to a third-party vendor. Common managed IT services include:
- Managing a client’s digital help desk
- Monitoring the health and security of client networks
- Overseeing software installations and updates
- Implementing business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR) protocols
Small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) can leverage these services on a subscription basis to elevate their companies to the same level as the industry giants in their field at a fraction of the cost.
With the help of third-party IT service management, businesses can keep their critical networks, endpoints, and data operating smoothly and securely, without the high upfront costs, infrastructure, or talent required to handle these systems in-house.
Managed service providers (MSPs) support a company’s technology needs through ongoing IT support that may include setup, installation, configuration, and monitoring of a company’s networks and endpoints. Unlike the reactive IT services of the past, modern MSPs will proactively assess a client’s IT infrastructure for potential threats and opportunities for improvement. They will then provide a plan of action, which may include a combination of software solutions and services, to improve their digital architecture and security posture.
MSPs vs. internal IT staff
Contrary to popular thought, managed IT services do not necessarily make internal IT professionals obsolete. For the end user, an IT professional can act as an endpoint liaison who manages the relationship, delivers feedback, and analyzes the reports the MSP provides. In the context of outsourced NOC or SOC services, the MSP works as an extension of the main team, helping to address issues and accelerate service delivery without the end user even knowing.
Because the MSP completes most of the routine work, the internal IT professional can tackle more extensive, complex projects they would otherwise not have the time or capacity to handle. Freeing up these workforce resources makes MSPs a valuable resource to businesses of any size and during any stage of growth. Co-managed services also add another dimension to this, with the teams being able to work together to resolve issues in many cases.
Services Outcome
- Handling software updates and patch management
- Installing antivirus and anti-malware platforms
- Meeting industry compliance standards (when necessary)
- Implementing access controls like multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Educating end users on cybersecurity best practices
- Conducting risk assessments to routinely evaluate clients’ cyber defenses
The biggest corporations in the world make IT a priority. They can build out first-class internal IT teams because they pull in the revenue needed to cover the costs. As a result, SMBs face the challenge of finding a solution to fill that gap and level the playing field. When put in this position, smart business owners leverage managed IT services.
Frequently asked questions
1. What is a managed service provider?
MSPs typically handle routine IT tasks like software updates and maintenance, business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR), network support, and cybersecurity management. Outsourcing IT support to a third-party vendor like an MSP provides small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with competitive IT capabilities at a fraction of the cost. It also frees internal teams to focus on what they do best.
2. What are managed IT services?
Savvy MSPs monitor and maintain IT infrastructure remotely via a remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform. This software can help MSPs identify and mitigate network threats before they cause significant infrastructure damage.
3. What is an MSP?
MSPs are responsible for keeping sensitive client data secure and must rely on strong cybersecurity controls and protocols to maintain industry compliance. Implementing best practices, staying on top of the evolving threat landscape, and adopting modern software and technologies are a few of the ways MSPs can ensure compliance.