People usually open businesses with their passions in mind. They just want to do what they love and earn a living in the process. But soon enough, the reality of running a business truly hits them. Suddenly, they’re managing schedules, handling payments, and wrestling with technology that always seems to malfunction at the worst times. That last part is why many business owners hire managed IT services. But then again, if you aren’t particularly tech-savvy, these three words won’t mean much to you. That’s why we’ve produced this guide. It will teach you everything you need to know about managed IT services without the technical mumbo jumbo.

What Are Managed IT Services?

Using managed IT services means hiring a company to take care of all your tech needs. You will no longer rely on traditional IT support, which only comes in when something breaks down. No, your managed IT services provider will check your systems regularly to prevent problems.

Now, IT – information technology – isn’t just one thing. It’s more like an umbrella term that covers many different elements. Managed IT services work the same way. They don’t provide a single solution, but a mix of different tools to help keep your tech running smoothly. It all depends on what your business needs.

Your business needs will be reflected in your managed service contract. This agreement will clearly outline the level of service you need and how much you will pay for that service. The cost is usually a fixed fee, so you don’t have to fear any surprises. These services will also cost you less in the long run, as they’re part of a package deal. You’ll spend much more money if you try to do everything on your own or hire an in-house IT team.

Managed IT services will also free up your time and resources, so you can focus on what matters the most – your customers and core business. But don’t worry. This doesn’t mean you’ll lose all control of your technology. You’ll still very much be in the driver’s seat. The car will just run much better.

What Are the Most Common Managed IT Solutions?

When it comes to managed IT services, the possibilities are almost endless. You can think of it this way – if it’s technology-related, there’s likely a service for it. Some of them will be more “basic” like fixing daily tech problems or setting up new devices like laptops or printers. Others are more specialized. These services include protecting sensitive data, developing apps, and overseeing the health of the entire network.

The exact services your business will need depend on the business itself. After all, every business uses technology differently. For example, a healthcare clinic might need strict security for patient records. At the same time, a retail store will focus on running reliable payment systems. A reliable managed IT services provider can help you with this choice.

Here are some of the most common managed IT services used by businesses. They should give you an idea of what you might need before reaching out to a provider.

Proactive IT Support

Remote monitoring and management (RMM) allows your managed IT provider to keep an eye on your tech systems without being on-site. The systems in question are your servers, computers, and mobile devices. Monitoring these systems has a simple goal – to ensure all of them are working properly. Your provider should spot any issue before it becomes a serious problem, allowing you to run your business smoothly.

Cybersecurity

If your business has any dealings online, you’ll likely need cybersecurity. Managed cybersecurity services are preferred among business owners who want to protect their data but can’t do it on their own. Hiring pros is also a good idea if your company handles sensitive data or has remote employees.

These cybersecurity professionals have a single goal – to protect your data and assets. That’s why cybersecurity covers a lot of smaller services. From installing antivirus software and setting up firewalls to monitoring your network 24/7 and training your employees, no threat should be able to slip through the cracks.

Cloud Services

With cloud services, you can store and access data online. This means that you no longer have to rely on physical hardware. As a result, your data is easier to access and more secure. Yes – more secure. Storing data on the internet might seem dangerous, but in reality, it’s much safer than tying it all to one physical location. Plus, that’s why the managed IT services providers exist. They will help you transition to the cloud but also maintain your systems there and keep them safe. This service is perfect for companies that need remote access, as well as those growing rapidly.

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

Business continuity and disaster recovery services are all about making sure your business can recover quickly after a disaster. This can be a natural disaster like a tornado, flood, or earthquake. However, it can also include events like a cyberattack, a power outage, or a system failure. Your managed services provider will help you create a plan for backing up your data and recovering it as quickly as possible. Again, businesses that work with sensitive information shouldn’t think twice about hiring these services. However, they can also be lifesavers for businesses in locations prone to natural disasters.

Regulatory Compliance

Not all businesses operate in the same environment. Some industries have strict rules about how they handle data, secure systems, and interact with customers. This includes healthcare providers, banks and other financial institutions, and government-contracted agencies. Your managed services provider can help you keep up with all these rules, helping you avoid penalties and legal trouble. This typically includes protecting your data, checking your systems regularly, and providing the necessary documents to prove compliance.

How to Outsource Managed IT

This guide should help you understand the basics of managed IT services. Your chosen provider can take it from there. Together, you’ll determine what services your business needs and craft an agreement both parties are happy with. If your business is based in St. Louis or Columbia, Missouri, or Western Illinois, Da-Com can help you with all things IT. Reach out to us today, and let’s take the IT headache off your plate.