Working with a managed IT service provider (MSP) gives businesses more time to focus on their core business operations. Any MSP will make it easier to handle day-to-day IT, but it’s important to realize that different MSPs offer different types of managed IT services.
“The best way to get the most out of your MSP partnership is to strategically choose an MSP who provides the exact types of services that your business needs.” – Eric Hullibarger, President, AhelioTech.
It’s a good idea to have a detailed understanding of the services offered before you sign a contract with an MSP. You neither want to overpay for services you don’t need nor miss out on services that you do need. Given the wide range of options available, it’s also best to research which services you want to ask a potential MSP about.
The rest of this article will provide a brief overview of 7 different types of managed services. We’ll explain what each service provides and list some key signs that your business could benefit from each service.
7 Types of Managed Services & Key Signs You Need Them
1. Managed Security Services
Managed security services defend your IT systems and data from threats like malware and unauthorized access. Services include threat monitoring, firewall setup, and software updates for better protection. This service keeps sensitive information safe and helps maintain your data security standards. If you’re one of the 51% of organizations that plan to increase your investment into cybersecurity, managed security services are a great place to allocate funds.
Key Signs You Need This Service
- Concerns about data privacy and security
- No in-house team to monitor security
- Frequent suspicious emails or unusual login attempts
2. Managed Cloud Services
Managed cloud computing services help you use cloud platforms effectively for storage and applications. This service handles cloud setup, security, and resource management, ensuring efficient access and data storage. It also supports your team in scaling as business needs grow.
Key Signs You Need This Service
- Reliance on cloud storage without oversight
- Growing data storage needs beyond internal limits
- Difficulty accessing files or apps across locations
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3. Infrastructure Management
Infrastructure management takes care of maintaining hardware, software, network resources, and other IT essentials. It covers servers, networks, storage, and security devices, keeping them all running smoothly. According to CloudSecureTech, 70% of data loss incidents are related to hardware failures, and having an MSP to manage your infrastructure reduces this risk. This service also provides cost savings, productivity improvements, and reduced downtime.
Key Signs You Need This Service
- Frequent hardware issues disrupt work
- No internal IT team for maintenance
- Need to manage IT resources efficiently
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4. Network Management
Network management services handle the setup, support, and monitoring of network devices like routers and switches. They keep the network running smoothly, fix connectivity issues, and monitor for any problems. This ensures that devices stay connected and perform well.
Key Signs You Need This Service
- Frequent network issues interrupt work
- No internal team for network support
- Network complexity is increasing due to growth or remote work
5. Managed IT Support Services
IT support services assist with daily technical issues like software bugs or hardware problems. They provide quick troubleshooting and ensure employees have tech support for a smooth workflow. These teams may also help with using new software or systems.
Key Signs You Need This Service
- Frequent tech problems slow down work
- Long wait times for basic IT help
- Limited expertise in common software or hardware issues
6. Disaster Recovery & Data Backups
These services protect important data from loss due to hardware issues, cyber threats, or natural disasters. They regularly back up data, securely store it, and provide quick data recovery plans. This reduces downtime and helps you quickly restore lost data if issues arise. Also, if you’re like the 21% of SMBs who lack a disaster recovery plan, an MSP can help you create one.
Key Signs You Need This Service
- No routine backups of important data
- Worries about data loss from unexpected events
- Long recovery times disrupt productivity
| 💡How Often Should You Test Your Disaster Recovery Plan?
Most organizations find annual testing sufficient for their disaster recovery plans. However, there are times when you may need to conduct disaster recovery tests more frequently than that. Here are some examples.
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7. VoIP & UCaaS (Unified Communications as a Service)
VoIP and UCaaS services create a complete communication system with internet-based phone calls, video conferencing, and messaging. This service replaces traditional phone lines and integrates all communication tools into one platform. Your employees can easily make calls, join meetings, send messages, and share files from any location.
Key Signs You Need This Service
- Landline phone systems are incurring high costs
- Need for unified communication tools for remote work
- Trouble managing separate communication platforms
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Get All 7 of These Different Types of IT Managed Services from One MSP
If this article showed you that you need several different managed service types, you may be concerned about having to work with multiple MSPs. While not every MSP will offer all 7 of the services we discussed, there is one in Columbus, Ohio, who will.
That MSP is AhelioTech. Our team provides 24/7 IT support, real-time network security measures, strategic IT consulting, and so much more. After over 18 years in the business, we’ve developed a deep understanding of a wide variety of IT challenges and are confident that we can help you solve yours.
Reach out to us today to learn more.
