5 min read | Jun 19, 2023
Managed IT services include a range of network and IT solutions that are managed by a third-party service provider. Whether you’re looking for as-needed services or a comprehensive IT management plan, managed IT services handle all things tech-related for your business.
What Is a Managed Service Provider (MSP)?
Managed service providers (MSPs) are hired by small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to take control of day-to-day business operations. MSPs can remotely manage a customer’s IT infrastructure and end-user systems as a third-party company. Services provided can range from network and infrastructure monitoring to auditing and legal compliance.
What Are the Benefits of Using Managed IT Services?
No matter what industry, technology plays a crucial role in our everyday lives. Partnering with an MSP gives business owners peace of mind when technical issues arise, as they won’t be stuck on hold with an internet provider. A fully-managed IT infrastructure means that monitoring, technical support and problem resolution are taken care of, giving you more power to focus on driving growth for your business.
How Does Managed IT Work?
Customers pay MSPs for their services, including managed IT. Fixed-cost IT packages provide constant support and protection backed by a team of experts in your community. Seamless integration of managed IT and other services are a bonus too, resulting in a smooth transition that doesn’t interfere with your business operations.
At Benton Technology Solutions, a monthly contract puts your network in the hands of our expert IT team. Reactive need-based service plans are also available for business owners that need support on a whim. We work to formulate a managed IT solution that addresses the needs of your business while staying true to your budget.
Why Other Businesses Utilize Managed IT Services
Managed IT services aren’t just for small or medium-sized businesses in the community. A range of Fortune 500 companies rely on MSPs to handle their IT infrastructures for a number of reasons.
- Managed IT services provide companies with valuable insights and technical expertise at a fixed monthly cost. Minimizing unexpected IT expenses saves internal dollars for training and hiring new staff, higher marketing budgets and expanding company outreach.
- There’s a lack of technical expertise within an organization. When companies understand their weaknesses, outsourcing allows for efforts to be focused elsewhere—like productivity and efficiency.
- Pressure from the industry to stay up-to-date with the latest technological advancements. Companies with the right technology have a competitive advantage and don’t get left in the dust by their competitors.
- An increase in cyber attacks on the organization. IT services can identify vulnerable IT infrastructures and propose solutions that protect against unwanted cyber-attacks.
What Types of Managed IT Services Are Available?
Designed to avoid outages, minimize downtime, safeguard revenue, increase customer satisfaction and more, most MSPs offer various managed IT services.
Network and System Monitoring
A loss in network connectivity, hardware or software malfunctions and unresponsive applications put your business at a standstill, driving your customers to a competitor and idling your employees. Our team of experts proactively monitors your server to detect early signs of trouble before an outage occurs.
Some of the following monitoring solutions at Benton Technology Solutions include:
- 24/7/365 server, workstation and infrastructure monitoring
- Maintenance on a regular basis
- Monitored network point and device customization
System Design and Upgrades
Managed IT services include support for when you’re ready to install a new network or modify an existing one. System design is one of the most important aspects when creating or upgrading your network infrastructure. A professionally-designed network is one that ensures your requirements are met while staying technically sound and efficient.
Security Management
Today, we rely on all sorts of devices throughout a typical business day—including mobile phones. While adding more devices streamlines internal processes and allows for easier communication, using them significantly increases the chances of your data being compromised. Mobile device security provides your company and its devices with a layer of protection that keeps your data safe.
Backup and Disaster Recovery
Network emergencies are a nightmare for small and mid-size business owners. Whether it’s server outages, cyber-attacks or equipment malfunctions, network downtime should be addressed as quickly as possible. Backup and disaster recovery services give your business the opportunity to recover from an emergency—with minimal rebuild.
The experts at Benton Technology Solutions will help you design a disaster recovery plan custom to your business. At a minimum, your disaster plan should include the following:
- Inventory of your hardware and software
- A tiered priority list of applications and hardware
- Outline all internal personnel involved in recovery processes
- The internal flow of communications for your organization
- Scheduled tests for your backup plan
Auditing and Compliance
Your IT infrastructure should comply with a standard set of privacy and security requirements, along with industry best practices and guidelines. During an audit, IT specialists will take inventory of your system for your data recovery plan and identify methods to strengthen the infrastructure in your network.
Analytics and Reporting
Automated alerts and regular reporting consistently keep you informed. You can expect reports that contain risk assessments, billing information, areas of improvement or executive summaries. Any MSP provider should be transparent and forthcoming with details about your network and its infrastructure, especially if actions are being taken to alter it.
Manage Your IT with Ease
At Benton Technology Solutions, we strive to take care of your managed IT service and support. We’ll handle tech operations that include IT, VoIP, Data and Cloud services for small and mid-size businesses. Contact the experts at Benton Technology Solutions and schedule your network assessment today!