SpartanTec, Inc. Columbia: A Comprehensive Guide to Managed IT Services

Managed IT services can be used to refer to a variety of services. This guide will cover the topic of Managed Services within the IT context. Managed Services (or Managed Services Providers in IT) refers to a third-party IT provider that manages some or all of the IT needs of a company.

Managed Services are not like other business solutions. An MSP can be contracted to provide security as a service for a company, but they also have the option to outsource all of their IT needs through Managed Packages, which are designed to function as a complete tech team.

This guide aims to provide information on Managed Services that covers everything a consumer should know, including the types of solutions and pricing models used by providers. The Complete Managed Services Guide will help you make an informed decision about whether Managed Services are right for you.

Types of managed IT services

Backup as a Service

Backup as a service focuses on recovery and backups. Managed backups will ensure that all data on your infrastructure is duplicated and stored off-site. The recovery plan will determine the frequency of backups.

A disaster recovery plan (DRP) is a plan that outlines what will happen if your digital environment fails. It also sets expectations for Managed Services Providers. Recovery plans are based on the Recovery Time Objections and Recovery Point Objections that you have agreed with the MSP. It is easy to understand the RTO. It refers to how fast you can expect to get your systems back up and running.

The RPO is slightly more complex. The Recovery Point Objective refers to the expected age of files that will be restored. The RPO will determine how often providers run backups. If you expect files to be restored within an hour of a backup, an MSP should run backups at least once an hour. You can ensure that your most recent work is saved in the event of an emergency by backing up more often.

Desktop as a Service

Desktops as a Service (DaaS) is a service where a third party hosts the backend of a Virtual Desktop Infrastructure. Once you log in to your DaaS account, the entire operating environment is running from the virtual cloud infrastructure of your managed service provider. DaaS is accessible online or via software installed on a computer. DaaS is easy to access and the VDI will add an additional layer of security. This is an excellent solution for companies that work with important and confidential data, create Bring Your Own Device policies and/or have many telecommuters.

Data Analytics

Data Analysis as a service allows a provider to monitor, capture and analyze network data in order to assist clients in implementing more efficient business solutions. Solutions can result in anything from a change to procedure to an increase of revenue.

Managed Communications

Managed Communications or unified communication combines voice, video and chat into one service. All your employees can connect on one platform instead of using a variety of applications. These managed communication packages can include:

Instant Messaging
Hosted Phones
Video Conferencing
File sharing
Email
Virtual Spaces and Rooms
Calendar Sharing
Administrative Portals

Managed Communications streamlines employee engagement and makes telecommuting a breeze.

Networking and Infrastructure

There are many things that network and infrastructure can refer to. Managed Services Providers may manage servers remotely, performing maintenance and backing up off-site. Others host servers and rent space on their servers. Depending on the size of your company and how much data you need to store, you will have to decide which option is best. Hosting your own server is the most expensive option, as you will need to replace the hardware every five years.

Security as a Service

Security as a service is an outsourcing model for cyber-security. While most SaaS solutions can be deployed through the cloud, some providers may also install physical components in a company’s environment. A Security as a Service package should contain:

Anti-Malware protects against viruses, malware and other cyber-attacks
Patch Installation Verification
Security Reporting
Log Management and Analysis
Monitoring, Testing, and Repair of System Systems
Software as a service

Managed Services Providers, which offer software as a service, distribute the applications through the cloud and act as the intermediary between your company and the developer. Although you may be able to contact the software developer directly, you will always receive the latest updates and personalized customer service if you go through the MSP. This is what makes the difference between ordering groceries from a wholesaler and buying them at a supermarket.

Support Services

Support services cover troubleshooting and helpdesk needs. These are the most sought-after Managed Services. The MSP provides support services for everyday problems such as password resets and software updates. Most Support Services cover tablets and mobile devices as well as printers. Some support services will even offer on-site solutions if necessary.

Managed Packages

Managed Packages provide full-service managed solutions that can be used as an In-House IT department. These packages include multiple Managed Services solutions. They should include at least some security, backup, monitoring, as well as full support services.