Managed IT Resource Center

Your Guide to Managed IT Services

Introduction to Managed IT Services

What are Managed IT Services?

Managed IT Services involve outsourcing the responsibility for maintaining and anticipating the need for, a range of processes and functions to improve operations and cut expenses. This can include services such as network management, data backup, cybersecurity and more. Essentially, a third-party provider takes over the IT operations of a company, offering expertise and a wide range of services to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Managed IT services offer a multitude of benefits that can significantly enhance operations, security, and overall efficiency. Here are the primary reasons why businesses choose managed IT services: cost efficiencies, access to expertise, and the opportunity to stay focused on the core business.

WHY CHOOSE MANAGED IT SERVICES?

Cost Efficiencies

Cost efficiency is a significant factor in many businesses’ choice of this service model.

  • Predictable Monthly Costs – Managed IT Services are typically subscriptions, where businesses pay a fixed monthly fee for various services. This model provides predictable costs, making it easier for companies to budget and plan their finances. Instead of facing unexpected expenses for IT repairs, updates or emergency interventions, businesses know exactly what their IT expenses will be each month.
  • Reduction in Infrastructure Expenses – Investing in IT infrastructure can be costly. Managed IT Services providers often include the necessary hardware, software, and other technology components as part of their service packages. This means businesses do not need to make significant upfront investments in servers, storage, networking equipment or software licenses. The provider takes on these costs and the business benefits from access to the latest technology without capital expenditure.
  • Lower Labor Costs – Hiring, training and retaining a skilled IT team can be expensive. Managed IT Services offer access to a team of experienced professionals at a fraction of the cost of maintaining an in-house IT department. Businesses can avoid the costs associated with recruiting and training new employees, as well as the ongoing expenses related to salaries, benefits, and professional development.
  • Economies of Scale – Service providers often serve multiple clients, allowing them to achieve economies of scale. They can spread the costs of infrastructure, tools and expertise across several clients, reducing the overall cost for each individual business. This efficiency is passed on to clients in the form of lower prices for high-quality services.
  • Reduced Downtime and Increased Productivity – Proactive maintenance and monitoring are key components of Managed IT Services. By identifying and addressing potential issues before they become major problems, these services help minimize downtime. Reduced downtime means employees can remain productive, avoiding the costs associated with lost work time and the potential revenue loss from operational disruptions.
  • Scalable Solutions – Often these services are scalable, allowing businesses to adjust their IT needs as they grow or as demand fluctuates. This flexibility means companies only pay for the services they need at any given time, avoiding the costs of over-provisioning or underutilizing resources.

Access to Expertise

In today’s business environment, companies often find themselves in need of specialized IT expertise to stay competitive and efficient. Managed IT services provide a comprehensive solution, offering access to experienced professionals and specialized knowledge that can drive business success. Here’s how Managed IT brings access to expertise to companies needing assistance:

  • Diverse Skill Sets – Managed IT service providers employ a team of professionals with diverse skill sets, covering a wide range of disciplines. This includes network administration, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data management and more. Companies benefit from this collective expertise without having to hire full-time staff for each specific role. Whether it’s setting up a robust network infrastructure or managing complex software deployments, managed IT services ensure that the right experts are always available.
  • Latest Technology and Best Practices – Staying up-to-date with the latest technology trends and best practices is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. Managed IT providers continuously invest in training and development to keep their teams knowledgeable about the latest advancements. This means companies gain access to cutting-edge technology and methodologies without the need for constant internal training. By leveraging the expertise of managed IT professionals, businesses can implement the most effective and efficient solutions available.
  • Proactive IT Management – Many companies take a reactive approach to IT management only addressing issues and challenges when it becomes a serious issue. Often managed IT services include round-the-clock monitoring of systems to identify and resolve challenges before they reach a critical stage. BY relying on seasoned professionals intimately familiar with common risks and mitigation steps, it helps to avoid costly disruptions and downtime.
  • Customized Solutions – Providers offer customized solutions tailored to each company’s specific requirements. This personalized approach ensures that businesses receive the exact expertise and support they need. Whether it’s developing a cybersecurity strategy, optimizing cloud infrastructure, or managing data backups, managed IT services provide bespoke solutions that align with business goals and objectives.
  • Cost Efficiency – Hiring full-time IT staff with the necessary expertise can be expensive, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. These services offer a cost-effective alternative by providing access to a team of experts at a fraction of the cost. Companies can scale their IT support based on their needs, paying only for the services they require. This flexibility allows businesses to manage their IT budget more effectively while still benefiting from top-tier expertise.
  • Focus on Core Business Activities – By outsourcing IT management to experts, companies can focus on their core business activities. Managed IT services handle the complexities of IT infrastructure, security and maintenance, freeing up internal resources to concentrate on strategic initiatives and growth. This allows businesses to leverage their internal talents more effectively, driving innovation and productivity.

Focus on Core Business

In the modern business landscape, technology is integral to nearly every operation. However, managing IT infrastructure and services can be complex and time-consuming, often diverting attention from a company’s core business activities. Managed IT services offer a solution by taking over the responsibilities of IT management, thereby allowing companies to focus on what they do best. Here’s how managed IT services enable businesses to concentrate on their core functions:

  • Comprehensive IT Management – Managed IT services cover all aspects of IT management, including network administration, cybersecurity, data storage and software maintenance. By entrusting these responsibilities to a team of experts, companies can ensure their IT systems are running smoothly and securely without dedicating internal resources to these tasks. This comprehensive management reduces the burden on in-house staff, freeing them up to focus on strategic projects and business development.
  • 24/7 Monitoring and Support – Managed IT providers offer round-the-clock monitoring and support, ensuring that any issues are detected and resolved promptly. This approach minimizes downtime and prevents disruptions that could impact business operations. Knowing that the IT infrastructure is monitored and supported allows management to focus on their core business activities.
  • Enhanced Security and Compliance – Maintaining robust security measures and ensuring compliance with industry regulations can be challenging. Managed IT services specialize in managing advanced security protocols, protecting against cyber threats, and ensuring compliance with relevant standards.
  • Scalability and Flexibility – As businesses grow and evolve, IT needs can change rapidly. These services offer scalability and flexibility, allowing companies to adjust IT resources and services according to current requirements. This adaptability ensures businesses can continue to focus on core activities without worrying about scaling their IT infrastructure.
  • Cost Savings – Hiring and training an in-house team can be costly, particularly for smaller companies. Managed IT services provide access to a team of experienced professionals at a predictable, often lower cost. This cost efficiency allows companies to allocate more of their budget to core business areas such as product development, marketing and customer service and more.
  • Strategic IT Planning – Managed IT providers not only handle day-to-day IT operations but also assist with strategic IT planning. They work with companies to develop IT strategies that align with their business goals, ensuring that technology supports and enhances business objectives. This strategic partnership allows companies to leverage technology effectively, driving business success while focusing on their primary mission.

TYPES OF MANAGED IT SERVICES

 Network Management

Network management is an important component of Managed IT services, ensuring that a company’s network infrastructure operates efficiently, securely, and reliably. Here’s a detailed description of the network management services typically offered:

  • Network Monitoring – Managed IT services continuously monitor network performance and traffic. This includes real-time tracking of network activity, detecting potential issues, and identifying bottlenecks. By monitoring the network 24/7, service providers can quickly respond to anomalies, prevent downtime, and maintain optimal performance.
  • Network Security – Security is a top priority in network management. Managed IT services implement robust security measures to protect the network from malware, viruses and cyber-attacks. This includes firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and regular security audits. Service providers also ensure that all security protocols are up-to-date and compliant with industry standards.

Source: Integrated Research

  • Network Configuration and Optimization – Managed IT services handle the configuration and optimization of network devices such as routers, switches and firewalls. This involves setting up network parameters, ensuring proper segmentation, and optimizing network paths for better performance. Regular assessments and adjustments are made to enhance the efficiency and speed of the network.
  • Troubleshooting and Support – When network issues arise, managed IT services provide prompt troubleshooting and support. Experienced technicians diagnose and resolve problems quickly to minimize downtime and disruption. This support often includes remote assistance as well as on-site visits when necessary.
  • Network Upgrades and Maintenance – Managed IT services ensure that all network components are up-to-date and functioning correctly. This includes regular maintenance of hardware and software, firmware updates, and network upgrades to support new technologies and business needs. Scheduled maintenance ensures that the network remains reliable and performs at its best.
  • Disaster Recovery and Backup Solutions—Managed IT services include disaster recovery and backup solutions to protect against data loss and ensure business continuity. These solutions involve regular backups of network configurations and data, as well as developing and implementing disaster recovery plans. In the event of a network failure or data breach, these measures help restore operations quickly.
  • Network Documentation and Reporting – Comprehensive documentation and regular reporting are essential aspects of network management. Managed IT services to maintain detailed records of network configurations, changes, and incidents. They also provide periodic reports on network performance, security status, and any issues that have been resolved. This transparency helps businesses stay informed about their network health and performance.

Cybersecurity Services

In an era where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, robust cybersecurity measures are essential for protecting business assets and sensitive information. Managed IT services provide comprehensive cybersecurity solutions designed to safeguard against a wide range of threats. Here’s a detailed description of the cybersecurity services typically offered:

  • Threat Detection and Prevention – Managed IT services utilize advanced tools and technologies to detect and prevent cyber threats before they can cause harm. This includes implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and block potential attacks. Continuous threat intelligence updates ensure that the latest threats are identified and mitigated.
  • Endpoint Security – Protecting endpoints such as desktops, laptops and mobile devices is critical in a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. Managed IT services deploy and manage endpoint protection solutions that include antivirus, anti-malware, and anti-ransomware software. Regular updates and patches are applied to ensure that all devices are protected against the latest threats.
  • Data Encryption – Data encryption is a fundamental aspect of cybersecurity. Managed IT services implement encryption protocols to protect sensitive data both at rest and in transit. This ensures that even if data is intercepted or accessed without authorization, it remains unreadable and secure.
  • Security Awareness Training – Human error is a significant factor in many cybersecurity breaches. Managed IT services provide security awareness training to educate employees about best practices and common threats such as phishing, social engineering and password security. Regular training sessions help create a security-conscious culture within the organization.
  • Vulnerability Management – Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing are essential for identifying and addressing security weaknesses. Managed IT services conduct thorough scans of the IT environment to detect vulnerabilities and provide recommendations for remediation. This proactive approach helps prevent potential exploits and strengthens the overall security posture.

  • Incident Response and Management – In the event of a cybersecurity incident, a swift and effective response is crucial. Managed IT services offer incident response and management, including the development of incident response plans, rapid identification and containment of threats and thorough investigation of incidents. This ensures that any breach is managed efficiently, minimizing damage and recovery time.
  • Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) – SIEM solutions provide real-time analysis of security alerts generated by applications and network hardware. Managed IT services implement and manage SIEM systems to collect, correlate, and analyze data from various sources. This enables the early detection of suspicious activities and the generation of actionable insights for improving security measures.
  • Backup and Disaster Recovery-In addition to protecting against cyber threats, managed IT services include backup and disaster recovery solutions to ensure business continuity. Regular backups of critical data and systems are performed, and disaster recovery plans are developed and tested. This ensures that in the event of a cyberattack, data can be restored, and operations can resume quickly.

Cloud Services

Cloud services are a cornerstone of modern IT infrastructure, offering flexibility, scalability and cost-efficiency. Managed IT services provide comprehensive cloud solutions to help businesses leverage the full potential of cloud computing while ensuring security, performance and reliability. Below is a summary of the cloud services typically offered:

  • Cloud Migration – These services are designed to assist in the transition from on-premises infrastructure to cloud environments. This includes planning, executing and managing the migration process to ensure minimal disruption and data integrity. Services include assessing the current IT landscape, selecting the appropriate cloud platform (public, private or hybrid), and migrating applications, data, and services to the cloud.
  • Cloud Infrastructure Management – Once migrated to the cloud, managed IT services provide ongoing cloud infrastructure management. This includes monitoring and maintaining cloud resources, optimizing performance, managing cloud storage and ensuring high availability. Service providers ensure that the cloud environment runs smoothly and efficiently by handling these tasks.
  • Security and Compliance – Security is paramount in cloud computing. Managed services implement robust security measures to protect cloud environments, including data encryption, access controls and threat detection. Additionally, they help businesses comply with industry regulations and standards such as GDPR, HIPAA and PCI-DSS by implementing necessary security controls and conducting regular audits.
  • Cloud Backup and Disaster Recovery—Comprehensive cloud backup and disaster recovery solutions help ensure data protection and prevent disruption to normal business activities. Critical data and systems are regularly backed up, and disaster recovery plans are developed and tested. In the event of data loss or a disaster, these solutions enable quick restoration of data and systems, minimizing downtime and disruption.

  • Scalability and Resource Optimization—One of cloud computing’s key advantages is its scalability. Managed IT services help businesses scale their cloud resources up or down based on demand, ensuring cost efficiency and optimal performance. They also monitor resource usage and provide recommendations for optimizing cloud resources to avoid overprovisioning and reduce costs.
  • Application Hosting and Management – Many providers offer application hosting and management in the cloud, allowing businesses to run their applications on robust, scalable and secure cloud infrastructure. This includes deploying, configuring and maintaining applications, ensuring they perform optimally and are always available to users.

Data Recovery & Backups

Data is one of the most valuable assets for any business, and ensuring its protection and availability is crucial for operational continuity and success. Managed IT services provide comprehensive data recovery and backup solutions to safeguard business-critical information and ensure quick recovery in case of data loss or disaster. Here’s a detailed description of the data recovery and backup services typically offered:

  • Regular Data Backups – Managed IT services implement and manage regular data backup schedules to ensure that all data is backed up consistently. This includes automated daily, weekly or monthly backups depending on the business’s needs. By maintaining up-to-date copies of data, businesses can minimize data loss in the event of hardware failure, cyberattacks, or other incidents.
  • Cloud Backup Solutions – Cloud backup solutions offer a secure and scalable way to store backups off-site. Managed IT services help businesses leverage cloud storage for their backups, ensuring data is safe from local disasters such as fires, floods or theft. Cloud backups provide the flexibility to access data from anywhere and facilitate quick restoration when needed.
  • On-Premises Backup Solutions – For businesses preferring to keep backups on-site, managed IT services offer on-premises backup solutions. This includes setting up and maintaining backup servers, storage devices and software. On-premises backups provide quick access to data and can be an integral part of a comprehensive backup strategy when combined with cloud backups.
  • Incremental and Differential Backups – To optimize storage space and backup times, managed IT services implement incremental and differential backup strategies. Incremental backups save changes made since the last backup, while differential backups save changes since the last full backup. These methods reduce the amount of data transferred and stored, making the backup process more efficient.
  • Disaster Recovery Planning – Managed IT services develop and implement disaster recovery plans tailored to a business’s specific needs. This includes identifying critical systems and data, establishing recovery objectives, and creating detailed procedures for restoring operations after a disaster. Regular testing and updates ensure the plan remains effective and aligned with the business’s current operations.

  • Business Continuity Solutions – Business continuity solutions go beyond data recovery to ensure that essential business functions can continue during and after a disaster. Managed IT services integrate data recovery and backup solutions into a broader business continuity plan, covering aspects such as alternative communication methods, remote working capabilities and temporary operational setups.

IT Support Services

IT support services are a crucial element of Managed IT services, ensuring that businesses have access to the technical assistance they need to maintain smooth and efficient operations. These services encompass a wide range of support activities aimed at addressing IT issues, optimizing system performance and enhancing user productivity. Here’s a detailed description of the IT support services typically offered:

  • Help Desk Support – Managed IT services provide a dedicated help desk that serves as the first point of contact for any IT-related issues. This includes troubleshooting software and hardware problems, resolving connectivity issues, and providing guidance on the use of IT systems. Help desk support is typically available 24/7, ensuring that employees can get assistance whenever they need it.
  • Proactive Maintenance – Preventative maintenance is essential for preventing IT issues before they occur. Managed IT services offer proactive maintenance, which includes regular system updates, hardware checks, software patches and performance monitoring. This proactive approach helps to identify potential problems early and mitigate risks, ensuring systems remain reliable and efficient.
  • User Training and Support – Effective use of IT systems often require user training. Managed IT services provide training sessions and resources to help employees understand and utilize their IT tools effectively. This includes training on new software, cybersecurity best practices, and efficient use of productivity tools. User support enhances overall productivity and reduces the likelihood of user-related issues.
  • Hardware Support and Maintenance – Hardware support encompasses the setup, maintenance and repair of IT hardware such as computers, printers, and networking equipment. Managed IT services provide regular hardware inspections, preventive maintenance, and timely repairs or replacements to keep all hardware functioning optimally.
  • Backup and Recovery Support – In the event of data loss or system failure, having reliable backup and recovery support is crucial. Managed IT services ensure that backup systems are in place and functioning correctly. They also provide support for data recovery processes, helping businesses restore lost data and resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
  • Security Support – Protecting against cyber threats requires constant vigilance and support. Managed IT services offer security support, including monitoring for potential threats, managing security software and responding to security incidents. This includes installing and configuring firewalls, antivirus programs and intrusion detection systems.
  • Strategic IT Consulting – Beyond day-to-day support, managed IT services offer strategic consulting to help businesses make informed decisions about their IT investments. This includes advising on technology upgrades, IT infrastructure improvements and long-term IT strategy to align with business goals.

BENEFITS OF MANAGED IT SERVICES

Business owners and managers understand the importance of robust IT infrastructure in optimizing processes and the resulting positive impact on productivity. The value new IT systems and applications can deliver to the bottom line increases each year. However, the time and resources needed for ongoing care and maintenance presents a challenge. Should the business rely on in-house IT resources or turn to Managed IT services? While in-house resources are always on-site there are limitations, especially regarding time available and level of expertise. However, Managed IT services offer several benefits, including:

Proactive Maintenance

Appropriate systems, hardware, and software maintenance limits the opportunity for issues to arise. Managed IT services ensure that all systems are updated with the latest patches and updates to minimize vulnerabilities. If hardware needs to be replaced or upgraded, your dedicated IT team is there to act quickly and minimize downtime.

Enhanced Security

One of the most important benefits is the ability to maintain enhanced security. Since cyberthreats are constantly evolving it is essential to regularly test, update, refine, and implement new measures to keep data safe. Managed IT services provide robust security controls, including firewalls and intrusion detection systems to detect and repel attacks. This can be especially useful for those required to comply with certain security frameworks or regulations.

Scalability

The ability to rely on a single vendor that can grow with the company is a compelling benefit for many. Not only can the required infrastructure be easily updated, but the support needed to accommodate change is also readily available. Most providers offer various plans which can be customized backed by a deep bench of resources available when the need arises.

Increased Productivity

Limiting downtime and disruptions is essential to ensuring staff remain focused on revenue-generating work. While attention to maintenance ensures routine issues are managed, there are still times when the unexpected may occur. When this happens, it’s comforting to know your dedicated team of IT professionals stands ready to address problems quickly and efficiently. The result is less downtime and a more productive operating environment.

QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN SELECTING AN IT PROVIDER

Navigating the vast field of managed IT providers can be challenging for any business owner. You need an IT partner that aligns with your company’s unique needs, ensuring your technology infrastructure is robust, secure and prepared for future growth. Here are key questions you should ask potential IT providers before making your decision.

  1. What IT Services Do You Specialize In? Every IT provider has its own area of expertise, be it managed IT services, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data management or a host of other tech-related fields. Understand the services your business needs and ask whether a prospective provider can deliver them effectively.
  2. What Is Your Experience with My Industry? When choosing a provider, it’s important to consider the IT requirements specific to your industry. To ensure they have the necessary expertise, ask about their experience working with businesses like yours. The ideal provider will have a solid grasp of your industry’s compliance regulations, software needs and potential security risks.
  3. How Quickly Do You Respond to IT Issues? Response time is an important metric in the IT world. It’s vital to determine how quickly a provider can attend to a problem once it arises. Ask about their Service Level Agreement (SLA), which outlines expected performance levels, including response times.
  4. What Security Measures Do You Implement? The ever-increasing threat of cyber-attacks makes this question imperative. Inquire about their approach to cybersecurity and the measures they put in place to protect your data. This can range from firewall and antivirus installations to conducting regular security audits and employee training.
  5. How Do You Manage Data Backup & Recovery? The loss of data can severely impact a business. Ensure your potential IT provider has a comprehensive backup and disaster recovery plan. They should provide solutions that secure on-site and off-site data and outline clear recovery protocols.
  6. How Do You Keep Up with Technology Trends & Innovations? Technology is rapidly evolving, and your IT provider must stay up to date. This ensures they can advise you on implementing the most advanced and suitable solutions for your business. Ask how they keep their skills and knowledge fresh.
  7. Can You Provide Client References? Client references can give you valuable insights into an IT provider’s work ethic, reliability and customer service. Ask for references from clients in your industry or with similar IT needs.
  8. How Will Our Businesses Communicate & Collaborate? Your IT provider should be a strategic partner, not just a vendor. They should facilitate regular communication, provide a dedicated point of contact and align their services with your business objectives. Utilizing collaboration tools, they should help with remote work, project management and team interactions. The right IT provider is proactive and strategic, aiding in IT road mapping and anticipating future tech needs.
  9. What Does Your Pricing Structure Look Like? Understand the pricing structure, what it includes and how it aligns with your budget. IT services can be billed on a per-project basis, monthly retainer or on an on-demand basis. Consider what works best for your financial planning.
  10. What Makes Your IT Services Unique? This question gives IT providers a chance to differentiate themselves from their competition. It could be a particular methodology, customer service excellence, or a unique product offering. Their answer can help you understand their core values and approach to IT solutions.

MANAGED IT SERVICES

As technology becomes increasingly important in the day-to-day operations of businesses, managing it can become a time-consuming and complex task. Many business owners find themselves spending valuable time and resources trying to keep up with the latest technology to ensure systems run smoothly.

However, when technology is managed correctly, it can be a powerful tool that enhances a company’s productivity and growth. That’s where managed IT services come in. By outsourcing some or all of your day-to-day IT operations and management to experienced specialists, business owners can focus on core competencies and leave the technical work to an outsourced team of IT professionals.

One of the biggest struggles businesses face with technology is keeping up with the constantly changing landscape of software and hardware. It can be challenging to know when to upgrade systems, which new technologies to invest in and how to maintain the security of sensitive data. Additionally, unexpected IT issues can occur, causing downtime and lost productivity.

Managed IT services can help overcome these challenges by providing access to experienced professionals who can guide you through the ever-changing technology landscape. Our managed IT services include access to a virtual chief information officer (vCIO) whose role is to support you beyond traditional break/fix services. A vCIO works with your leadership team to align the organization’s IT strategy with your overall business objectives. As a result, you can expect support in enhancing IT capabilities, driving innovation, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the security and integrity of your IT systems and data.

Adams Brown Technology Specialists offers the following as part of our Managed IT services including:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What exactly does “managed IT services” entail?

Managed IT services refer to an external provider’s proactive management and maintenance of IT systems. This often includes network monitoring, software updates, data backups, cybersecurity measures, help desk support and other essential IT tasks, all designed to optimize a business’s IT environment and minimize disruptions.

What kind of support can I expect? Is it 24/7?

Managed IT services offer 24/7 support to ensure any critical issues are addressed promptly, no matter the hour.

What’s the difference between cybersecurity and IT security?

While often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle difference. IT security refers to securing information systems, digital data and IT assets. Cybersecurity is a broader concept, focusing on protecting data from threats in the cyber realm, including the internet, networks and digital devices.

What is one of the most pressing cybersecurity challenges for businesses?

A challenge many businesses grapple with is the continuous evolution of cyberthreats and the necessity of staying informed and educated about cybersecurity. One of the prevalent tactics hackers employ is deceiving employees into revealing their login credentials. It’s not so much about “stealing” in the traditional sense; it’s more about skillfully manipulating users into inadvertently handing over their access. Once these cybercriminals infiltrate the system, they often lie in wait, biding their time until they spot an opportune moment to launch a damaging attack. By prioritizing cybersecurity education and embedding best practices throughout the company, businesses can significantly fortify their defenses against these commonplace cyber threats. Among the most potent tools in this educational arsenal is Security Awareness Training, which equips employees with the knowledge and vigilance needed to thwart such deceptive tactics.

Why should my business consider managed IT services instead of hiring in-house?

Managed IT services offer several advantages over an in-house team, including:

  • Cost-Efficiency
  • Expertise
  • Scalability
  • Latest Technology

I already use managed IT services. What should I expect from my provider?

A managed IT services provider should elevate your technological framework and cybersecurity posture, ensuring optimal performance and peace of mind. Here’s what you should expect:

  • Proactive Monitoring: Continuous surveillance of your IT infrastructure to identify and address issues before they escalate.
  • Regular Maintenance: Scheduled updates, patches and tune-ups to ensure all systems are running efficiently and securely.
  • Cybersecurity Measures: Implementation of robust security protocols such as firewalls, intrusion detection, encryption and multi-factor authentication.
  • Data Backup & Recovery: Routine backups to both local and off-site locations, and swift recovery processes in case of data loss.
  • 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock help desk support to address any queries or issues you might encounter.
  • Strategic IT Planning: Guidance on future IT investments, scalability considerations and technology roadmaps tailored to your business goals.
  • Compliance & Industry Standards: Ensuring your IT setup aligns with your domain’s legal regulations and industry standards.
  • Employee Training: Regular sessions to educate your team on best practices, cybersecurity awareness and usage of new technologies.
  • Vendor Management: Coordinating with third-party vendors on your behalf, ensuring all technology integrations are seamless and beneficial.
  • Regular Reporting: Providing analytics and reports on IT system performance, potential vulnerabilities and other key metrics to keep you informed.

A technology partner isn’t just about maintaining the status quo; they’re about actively enhancing your technological environment and positioning your business for future growth and innovation.

Is there downtime when transitioning to a different managed services company?

The goal is to ensure a seamless transition with minimal disruption and no downtime. While there might be brief periods of downtime for certain tasks, these are typically scheduled during off-peak hours.

How do you ensure the cybersecurity of data and systems?

Adams Brown Technology Specialists utilize a combination of best practices, including regular vulnerability assessments, intrusion detection systems, multi-factor authentication, encryption, regular software updates and employee training to maintain a robust cybersecurity posture.

How do you handle data backups and recovery?

In case of data loss, systems are in place to ensure rapid data recovery, minimizing downtime and data loss.

What measures are in place in case of a data breach?

An incident response plan is in place in case of a breach. This involves identifying the source of the breach, containing the threat, communicating with relevant stakeholders, recovering lost data and taking steps to prevent future incidents.

Can managed services and cybersecurity be tailored to fit specific industry needs?

Absolutely. Different industries have unique requirements, and services can be customized to align with your specific industry regulations, standards, and needs. Managed IT and cybersecurity services are more than just protective measures. It’s a strategic partnership that ensures your company’s continuous growth and resilience against threats. It’s about having a knowledgeable ally dedicated to keeping your tech infrastructure running smoothly while you focus on what you do best: driving your business forward.

MANAGED IT SERVICES – RESOURCES

Looking for additional information on Managed IT services? Below is a list of valuable resources for exploring the topic more deeply including articles, books, websites and more.

Articles & Whitepapers

Books

Industry Forums and Communities

  1. Reddit – r/msp – A community for managed service providers to discuss and share insights.
  2. Spiceworks Community – Forum for IT professionals, including discussions on managed IT services.
  3. TechSoup Forums – Discussions and resources for IT professionals in nonprofit organizations.

These resources should provide a solid foundation for understanding and exploring Managed IT Services, whether you’re looking to implement these services in your organization or work with an outsourced vendor to guide you.

SERVING THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY

Business needs extend well beyond the realm of hardware hiccups and printer breakdowns. When local companies faces IT, technology, cybersecurity or growth challenges, they turn to Adams Brown Technology Specialists to help achieve their goals. We provide compliance & regulation, cybersecurity, managed IT, penetration testing, SOC reporting, technology consulting and vulnerability scanning services to business owners and leaders across the country.

With specialized knowledge and experience serving the agriculture, construction, dental, feed yard, healthcare, local government, manufacturing and optometry industries, our team stands ready to assist.

To start a conversation about how Adams Brown Technology Specialists can help you meet your business goals, fill out the form on this page.

Our network of office locations includes:

Have a question or need help? Contact the Adams Brown Technology Specialists team.