10 Examples of Managed IT Services You Can Have Provided By an IT Company

Below are just 10 types of managed services that a provider might offer, but keep in mind that every IT partner is different, so ask all potential vendors for their full list of services.

1. Network Infrastructure

For nearly all modern organizations, networks are the backbone of everything from daily office operations to customers’ experiences of interacting with businesses via the internet. Depending on what industry your business operates in, the business model you have, and the size of your company, having IT experts to help take responsibility for network management, maintenance, and upgrades can be extremely helpful. MSPs often offer their clients a range of network services so they can meet the business needs of a variety of customers.

2. Cybersecurity

A key element of successful IT management is ensuring technologies of all kinds are secure against cyber threats like hackers, malware, ransomware, and more. An experienced IT service provider can help keep your infrastructure safe from these problems by implementing security tools, ensuring updates are carried out as needed, and helping to proactively identify a problem before it negatively impacts your business functionality. The efforts of managed service providers can help your business have more uptime.

Managed Security Services May Include:

• Anti-malware
• Anti-virus
• Anti-spam
• Network security monitoring
• Penetration Testing
• Firewall
• Virtual private network (VPN)
• Intrusion detection and documentation
• Training teams on skills such as safe online practices
• Incident reporting and analysis

3. Support Services

One commonly requested solution for many businesses is general IT support services, such as help desk support. This approach to IT management is a lower-cost alternative to having an in-house IT team and can offer users access to the help of IT professionals for issues like desktop computer problems, mobile device management, technical questions, and more. This support is often offered remotely and can be very helpful for small to medium-sized businesses.

4. IT Consulting

For businesses that don’t have IT teams, IT consulting from an MSP can be a great way to identify IT challenges, assess business goals, and ensure that the business’s IT solutions, administration, and implementation are up to par to achieve those goals.

5. Cloud Infrastructure

Cloud computing is in demand now more than ever before. Many businesses have cloud-based technology solutions to store data, execute business operations, and more. Employees can access their business systems and resources from mobile devices and home computers. A technology services provider like an MSP can help implement a new cloud infrastructure or update your existing system.

6. Software as a Service (SaaS)

Managed software as a service is another common offering from MSPs that many businesses find helpful. If you use software subscription services such as Microsoft Office 365 or something similar, an MSP can help negotiate your subscription contract, ensure all of the components are configured correctly, execute upgrades, and help troubleshoot issues.

7. Communication Services

Managing your business’s communication services can be a big job. That’s why many businesses choose to have their communications managed by an MSP. Communication technologies include a combination of everything from standard phone systems to virtual communication software, such as Zoom or Teams.

Managed Communication Services May Include:

• Email application management
• Phonelines, VoIP, etc.
• Video conferencing platform management
• File sharing platforms
• Instant messaging
• Virtual space connectivity

8. Data Backup & Disaster Recovery

Being prepared for cyber security breaches and natural disasters is paramount to any business. All organizations are at risk of experiencing any number of data loss incidents, regardless of what business they operate in or how large or small their staff is. Downtime can greatly impact a business’s financial bottom line and reputation, so it’s essential to have a plan in place for backing up data and restoring it in the event of an incident.

9. Data Analytics

Data is one of the most powerful tools a business has, but utilizing it correctly can be difficult if you’re not experienced in data analytics. An IT provider can help you collect, analyze, store, and secure client data so you can use it to your advantage. Data management is often boiled down to storage. However, don’t underestimate the positive impact that data analytics can have on your business.

10. Equipment Services

Whether you’re simply looking for an IT contact to provide recommendations for the best equipment to purchase or you’re hoping to find an IT partner who can manage the installation, management, and support of your equipment, consider working with a managed services provider. They are experienced with a variety of equipment types and brands and often have relationships with manufacturers to get their customers the best pricing on popular equipment, including servers, computers, mobile devices, tablets, printers, and more.