What Are Managed IT Services?

What are Managed IT Services and what is an MSP?

One of the most common questions we are asked is, “What are Managed IT Services?” The simple answer is Managed IT Services are peace of mind for your business. The peace of mind that your business technology (data network devices, workstations, servers, software, security, endpoints and more…) is being actively managed to keep your business running smoothly and keep your information safe.

The technical answer is that “Managed IT Services” are a business model where companies hire professional IT people to monitor, manage and maintain their entire IT infrastructure.

Instead of calling a break/fix IT company when something goes wrong, you have a full team of IT specialists working for you around the clock. This benefits your business because your technology will receive regular proactive maintenance. Managed services work best when the provider keeps all your networking and computer equipment functioning optimally all the time. And this is definitely the best solution for your business.

Servers, routers, computers, etc. actually last longer and perform better when they receive regular maintenance. If you wait till something breaks, then you’re basically shortening the life of your equipment. And this type of equipment is often pretty expensive. In the long run, you will save money and experience fewer technology headaches.

What is a Managed Service Provider?

A managed services provider (MSP) is an information technology (IT) company. They hire engineers and IT specialists. They are often certified partners with industry leaders like:

• Microsoft
• Dell
• Lenovo
• VMWare
• Netgear
• Sonicwall
• Allworx
• Many others

With a wide range of experienced people, a managed IT company can address just about any type of problem you might be having. They don’t just fix broken computers. They can help you develop a new design for your Wi-Fi or install new cabling to accommodate video surveillance cameras.

They also offer a wide range of other services that can benefit your business including:

• IT consulting
• Cloud services
• Cybersecurity Services
• Virtualization
• Email/Spam protection
• Business phone systems
• Video surveillance
• Backup & disaster recovery services
• Cabling services
• Audio-Visual systems and services
• IT Audits
• Virtual CIO services
• IT Security

Managed service providers usually offer various service packages that can be customized so that you get only what you need at a price that fits into your budget. Your service level agreement (SLA) will outline your services and the prices. Many companies like this type of agreement because it will cover anything and everything that could go wrong with their IT equipment for the same price each month. This alleviates your worries about your IT infrastructure plus it typically provides worry-free maintenance that will keep your network in best working condition.

5 Managed Service Provider Tips That Protect Your IT Investment

1. Outsource Your Internal IT Department

Those with an in-house computer technician may think they’re saving money but with today’s hefty salaries in this industry, it’s often not a bargain. Even when businesses have talented IT people or staff there are always areas that need attention and support. With hundreds of customer, Centerpoint IT has the experience to guide your business to use technology as an effective business tool and help proactivly avoid issues.

2. Early Issue Detection Reduces End-User Delays

Often, day-to-day computer issues do not get immediately noticed. Managed IT providers run monitoring and reporting tools that identify the unknown items. They will report their findings when a potential problem gets discovered. That way, the problem gets fixed before it causes frustration and downtime for your employees.

3. Remote Technical IT Support Shortens Response Times

Often workstation issues can get solved remotely, eliminating the expense of a technician doing an on-site visit and assessment. This is a fast, easy way to resolve common computing issues so your employees can get back to work.

4. The Break/Fix Model Forces Companies to Pay High Incident Fees

Undetected IT issues become expensive break/fix fee incidents. That happens when a system isn’t monitored correctly. When the server and network outages keep happening, this is a sign there may be deeper problems that could be expensive to repair.

5. Managed IT Helps Avoid Unanticipated Costs

When mission-critical technology fails, this can cost your company in several ways. First of all, your workflow is disrupted. Your employees can’t work. During any downtime, employees still get paid (often overtime), which includes paying the in-house technical support personnel, possbily paying outside consultants and most likely a loss of business.

Technology Can Drive Revenue and Innovation

When your IT infrastructure works, it can significantly increase the productivity of your users, but what about goals specific to your company? Your Managed IT provider serves the role of a consultant for your business development regarding how technology can drive your business forward. From new solutions to better internal practices, your goals can be reached through the professional management of your technology.

When you partner with Centerpoint I.T. you’ll have a dedicated technology team working to help you succeed in business. We’ll keep your IT infrastructure running in peak condition. This allows you to focus on building your business. So stop stressing out over your technology issues and team up with a dependable managed services provider who understands how important your business is to you.

Looking For A New Managed IT Provider in Atlanta?

Contact us for a technology conversation. Centerpoint IT is the leading choice for Atlanta businesses.

Learn more on how Managed IT Services can help your business.
Discover the best IT Company suited for your business.