Businesses often lack the resources necessary to effectively manage their own IT infrastructure. Outsourcing managed network services to a managed service provider (MSP) who will expertly monitor and maintain the company’s IT environment can be the optimal solution.
Managed network services refer to networking applications and functions that businesses may outsource to a third party to be managed. These services range from standard transport services like leased LAN and WAN lines to updated virtual network services.
Managed network services are typically delivered via cloud infrastructure services, but also can be installed and managed in-house by the service provider.
Although managed network services can be invaluable to businesses of all sizes and in all industries, they are not right for all enterprises. Learn more about managed network services, how they work, and what type of organization should consider working with an MSP.
Explaining Managed Network Services
Managed network services enable businesses to outsource the software, technical support, and overall infrastructure services required to manage and effectively operate an IP-based communication network.
A managed network may provide companies with a variety of hardware infrastructure services, such as servers, switches, and routers. It also may deliver firewall software to protect the infrastructure against cybersecurity risks and an OS that allows the system to run seamlessly. The entire system is maintained and continuously monitored by the service provider.
Managing and monitoring the many components of network infrastructure can be a complex and time-consuming process. When businesses do not have the talent or resources necessary to properly use existing IT resources or do not have access to the resources needed, they may seek the assistance of a third-party provider that offers professional managed network services.
An experienced managed network service provider offers enterprise-wide, remote network infrastructure management and monitoring services to allow companies to run smoothly and efficiently.
Benefits of Managed Network Services
Acquiring managed network services from a trusted MSP can have countless benefits for growing businesses. Some of these advantages include:
1. Gain Access to Qualified IT Specialists
It can be challenging to put together a team of highly qualified IT specialists with experience managing and monitoring business networks. MSPs have accomplished this by hiring only the most qualified IT specialists and providing them with ongoing technical training and education.
These specialists have the most up-to-date knowledge of network management practices and deliver services that align with current industry standards.
2. Enjoy Speedy Response Times
Managed service providers offer 24/7 IT support, meaning businesses can gain peace of mind that their network is continuously monitored and managed by professionals. Through round-the-clock monitoring, MSPs detect technical problems early on and address them before they become more costly and complicated to resolve. This minimizes possible downtime and prevents significant financial losses.
3. Cut Down on Ongoing IT Costs
When businesses choose to outsource to a team of technical administrators, they can reduce their IT expenses. It is expensive to hire in-house IT specialists and the cost of purchasing network management tools and equipment are substantial.
Consider outsourcing managed network services to an MSP who will handle all IT functions of the business, saving the company time and money in exchange for a flat, predictable, and recurring fee.
4. Maintain Round-the-Clock Monitoring
Technical issues can strike at any time, day or night. When businesses rely on an in-house team of professionals that work a standard 9-to-5, IT problems that occur outside of these hours often are left on the back burner until the next business day.
Hours of downtime can lead to significant financial losses and frustrated customers. There is no way to predict when an IT issue may occur, meaning businesses need 24-7k monitoring and IT support that only a dedicated MSP can provide.
5. Get the Latest Tried-and-Tested Technologies
Many businesses do not have the budget required to continuously buy and implement new technologies. This can lead to inefficiency and cause these companies to fall behind their competitors.
Managed service providers have access to the latest resources that can be quickly integrated into a company’s systems. All tools and solutions used by MSPs meet current IT industry standards and have been rigorously tested by accredited organizations.
6. Ensure that Data is Safely Backed Up
Businesses are responsible for a wealth of information that is often sensitive in nature. Without the proper security tools and protocols, this data could become lost or may fall into the wrong hands.
MSPs often offer data backup services that help mitigate these risks by continuously backing up files to a secure remote database. These services make the recovery process fast and simple.
Speak with a Managed IT Service Provider
Outsourcing all of an organization’s IT functions to an MSP enables companies to put a greater focus on core business activities. For more information about managed network services or to speak with a managed IT service provider, contact SeaGlass Technology online today.