In today’s world, technology is everywhere you look. There are thousands of software programs in the palm of your hand and on your desktop, which can be overwhelming for a person with only a basic understanding of technology and its uses. That’s why many businesses use managed IT services to do the work for them.
Organizations and companies use a wide range of technological devices, programs, and services. These organizations can outsource their information technology services and use a third-party vendor that specializes in managing IT. These vendors are called managed service providers (MSP) and are typically secured through subscriptions or contracts.
The responsibilities of an IT company range from simple computer problems, connectivity issues, data protection, infrastructure maintenance, cloud computing, and malicious software solutions. They are reliable, cost-effective, and remove the need for an in-house, full-time employee with restricted hours.
Some examples of managed IT services include cloud solutions, backup management, antivirus, password management, and patch management solutions. These services, as a whole, make up Complete IT Infrastructure Management, which EHPN provides.
Why outsource IT?
Outsourcing IT services can increase IT efficiency, improve time management, and reduce costs. Managed IT companies typically have more cybersecurity expertise and can keep the client’s organization within the parameters of cybersecurity laws and regulations all while combating any threats faced. The less time a company has to spend on technological problems or updates, the more time they have to focus on its revenue-generating tasks and priorities.
What are the benefits of using a managed IT company?
Utilization of IT vendors means a company can set the terms of the contract using service level agreements (SLAs) that remove the need for full-time employees. This saves time recruiting, hiring, and training staff, leaving you only to pay for the services instead of the additional benefits for an in-house IT employee, including the software needed for IT infrastructure management (such as ticketing and monitoring systems).
What is cloud computing?
You are utilizing cloud computing whenever you open your laptop or use your desktop. Cloud computing is a method of delivering and utilizing IT services via the internet, including: servers, hardware, storage, networking, software, monitoring, intelligence, and analytics. A few examples of this type of service are Microsoft O365, Gmail, and Azure.
What services does cloud computing offer?
Have you ever received push notifications to purchase more cloud storage for your data? Cloud storage includes device memory backup and data recovery that is accessible anywhere via the internet. File storage is a small portion of cloud computing. It also includes email services, financial and business applications, Microsoft Office, and more.
What is backup monitoring?
The monitoring and management of hardware and infrastructure is a continuous process. Managing backups include testing, maintenance, and deleting obsolete backups. Backup monitoring is essential for reliable stored data, and ensures industry standards compliance.
What is antivirus and anti ransomware software?
These are security services that monitor, detect, and prevent virus and malware attacks. Incident response is nearly instantaneous to protect your technology and data by quarantining the suspicious coding or removing it completely. Even if an attack successfully penetrates your firewall, anti ransomware service assists organizations in recovering quickly with minimal downtime and damage. EHPN pairs their clients’ software with a Security Operations Center (SOC) that responds to issues in real time.
What is password management?
Passwords should never be reused or easy to guess, which makes it nearly impossible to remember all the passwords you may have. This is where a password manager comes in. A password manager allows you to easily create, store, and manage all of your passwords in one place. Many password management services offer features such as two-factor authentication and multi-factor authentication, which can help to prevent unauthorized access to accounts. In addition, many password management services offer fraud protection and other security features.
What is patch management?
Patch management is the process of distributing and applying updates to software. Patches are often necessary to correct errors and vulnerabilities in the software. Vulnerabilities are essentially a hole in the netting that protects your data and computer system. Three common types of patch management are security patches, bug fixes, and feature updates. A common example of patch management are the updates that are available to download on your Apple or Android phone. Microsoft Windows patch management is done by a third party. EHPN uses coding patches to ensure security and functionality until a new software update is released.
Break Fix vs Managed Services
Break/fix is a dated style of IT services. A client would contact the technician to request upgrades, resolve issues, or maintenance. This style of service doesn’t work to prevent IT problems from happening, but rather reacts to them. Through this process, the technician would complete the requested work and bill the client. There are no contracts or subscriptions for continuous maintenance or surveillance.
Managed services are contracted or subscription services in which the client and the vendor would be affiliated for particular services around the clock for the agreed amount of time. This type of service works to prevent IT problems from occurring and also fixes them when they arise.
Cloud Computing vs. Managed Service Providers
Managed service providers cover all aspects of IT and provide clients with whatever they may need. Cloud computing is a service that can also be organized by managed service providers.
Choosing the right IT services for you can be a daunting and confusing task. You must analyze the cost, functionality, storage options, and any additional amenities your business specifically needs. It is recommended that you reach out to a managed service provider that can guide your business to the right decision.
Regardless of which direction you choose, a third-party IT service will enhance your business’ productivity and lessen the strain of technical problems.
Learn more about EHPN’s managed IT services and how we can benefit your business.