Managed IT Services: Overview, Types, and Tools

What Are Managed IT Services?

Managed IT services involve entrusting a Managed Service Provider (MSP) with the outsourcing of diverse IT tasks and duties. These encompass a broad spectrum of IT functions such as network monitoring, cybersecurity, data backup and recovery, software updates and patches, help desk support, and beyond.

The key characteristic of managed IT services is that they are provided proactively rather than reactive. MSPs take a proactive approach to managing and maintaining their clients' IT infrastructure and systems, with the goal of preventing problems before they occur. This includes regularly monitoring, maintaining, and optimizing IT resources for optimal performance and reliability.

Managed IT services are delivered through a subscription-based model, where clients pay a subscription fee to access a range of IT services and support. This model offers several benefits, including predictable costs, scalability, and access to a team of experienced IT professionals without hiring additional staff internally.

Overall, managed IT services enable businesses to offload the day-to-day management of their IT systems to experts, allowing them to focus on their core business objectives while ensuring that their IT infrastructure is secure, reliable, and efficient.

History of managed IT services

The history of managed IT services can be traced back to the late 20th century when businesses realized the importance of maintaining and optimizing their IT systems. Initially, IT support was handled in-house, with companies employing IT staff to manage their technology needs. However, as technology became more complex and critical to business operations, many organizations found it challenging to keep up with the rapidly evolving landscape of IT.

Managed IT services began to gain traction in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Several factors drove this shift:

1. Complexity of IT Infrastructure: As businesses grew, so did the complexity of their IT environments. Managing servers, networks, and software became increasingly challenging and resource-intensive.
2. Cost Pressures: Maintaining an in-house IT department can be expensive. Businesses faced pressure to reduce costs while ensuring reliable and secure IT systems.
3. Need for Specialized Expertise: Technology was advancing rapidly, and specialized skills were required to manage new technologies effectively. Many organizations lacked the internal expertise needed to support emerging technologies.
4. Focus on Core Business Functions: Outsourcing IT functions allowed businesses to focus on their core competencies while leaving IT management to experts.

Managed IT services evolved to address these challenges. MSPs offer various services, including network monitoring, cybersecurity, data backup and recovery, help desk support, and more. They typically operate on a subscription-based model, providing businesses predictable costs and scalability.

Over the years, managed IT services have continued to evolve with technological advancements. Cloud computing, virtualization, and artificial intelligence have all significantly impacted the managed services landscape, enabling MSPs to deliver more efficient and innovative solutions to their clients.

Today, managed IT services are an integral part of the IT strategy for businesses of all sizes and across various industries. They provide organizations with access to a team of experienced professionals, advanced technology solutions, and proactive support, helping them to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and stay competitive.

10 Types of Managed IT Services

Managed IT services encompass diverse offerings that cater to various aspects of an organization's IT infrastructure and operations. Here are ten common types of managed IT services:

1. Network Monitoring and Management

This service involves continuous monitoring of a company's network infrastructure to detect and resolve issues such as network downtime, performance bottlenecks, and security breaches. Managed service providers (MSPs) use specialized tools to monitor real-time network traffic, device status, and security threats.

2. Cybersecurity Services

Cybersecurity is a vital concern for businesses of all sizes. Managed cybersecurity services include threat detection, vulnerability assessments, security patch management, firewall management, intrusion detection and prevention, and incident response. MSPs employ advanced security technologies and best practices to protect their clients' data and systems from cyber threats.

3. Data Backup and Disaster Recovery

Managed backup and disaster recovery services guarantee the secure preservation of crucial data, enabling swift restoration in the event of data loss, corruption, or various disasters like cyberattacks, hardware failures, or natural calamities. MSPs employ automated backup solutions, redundant storage systems, and comprehensive disaster recovery strategies to mitigate downtime and safeguard against data loss.

4. Cloud Services

Cloud computing has transformed the way businesses manage and access IT resources. Managed cloud services include cloud migration, infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), software as a service (SaaS), cloud security, and cloud management. MSPs help businesses leverage cloud technology to improve scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency.

5. Managed Endpoint Security

With the increasing number of devices connected to corporate networks, endpoint security has become a major concern. Managed endpoint security services protect endpoints such as desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets from malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and other cyber threats. MSPs deploy endpoint protection solutions, manage security updates, and enforce security policies to safeguard endpoints.

6. Help Desk and Technical Support

Managed help desk services provide end users with technical support and assistance for IT issues and inquiries. MSPs offer remote help desk support, onsite support, and 24/7 monitoring and response. Help desk services cover various issues, including hardware and software troubleshooting, software installations, account management, and user training.

7. IT Infrastructure Management

Managed IT infrastructure services encompass designing, deploying, optimizing, and managing a company's IT infrastructure, including servers, storage, networking, and virtualization. MSPs ensure that IT infrastructure components are configured correctly, perform optimally, and are secure and compliant with industry regulations.

8. Managed Print Services

Managed print services help businesses streamline their printing operations and reduce printing and document management costs. MSPs manage print devices, such as printers and copiers, optimize print workflows, monitor print usage, and replenish maintenance and supplies as needed.

9. Unified Communications and Collaboration (UCC)

Managed UCC services enable businesses to enhance communication and collaboration among employees, customers, and partners. These services include voice-over IP (VoIP), video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and collaboration tools. MSPs design, implement and support UCC solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructure and improve productivity and efficiency.

10. Compliance and Regulatory Compliance

Compliance with industry regulations and data protection laws is essential for businesses operating in regulated industries. Managed compliance services help businesses assess compliance requirements, implement security controls and policies, conduct audits and assessments, and ensure adherence to regulatory standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOX.

Benefits of Managed IT Services

Managed IT services offer many benefits for businesses of all sizes and across various industries. Here are some key advantages:

Outsourcing IT functions to a managed service provider offers substantial cost savings in contrast to managing an in-house IT department. Managed IT services usually follow a subscription-based model, enabling businesses to forecast and allocate their IT expenditures more efficiently. Furthermore, businesses can circumvent expenses related to recruiting and training IT personnel, as well as investing in costly infrastructure and technology upgrades.

1. Expertise and Experience: Managed service providers are staffed with experienced IT professionals with various skills and expertise. By partnering with an MSP, businesses gain access to a team of specialists with deep knowledge of various technologies and industry best practices. MSPs stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in IT and undergo regular training to ensure they can provide clients with the highest service and support.
2. Proactive Monitoring and Maintenance: Managed IT services proactively manage and maintain IT systems. MSPs use advanced monitoring tools to continuously monitor a company's IT infrastructure's performance, security, and health. By detecting and resolving issues before they escalate, MSPs can minimize downtime, prevent data loss, and optimize system performance, improving business productivity and efficiency.
3. Scalability and Flexibility: Managed IT services (MSPs) are designed to scale with businesses' evolving needs. Whether a business is experiencing rapid growth, seasonal fluctuations in demand, or changes in technology requirements, MSPs can quickly adapt and adjust their services accordingly. MSPs offer flexible service plans and customizable solutions that allow businesses to scale their IT resources up or down as needed without incurring additional costs or disruptions.
4. Enhanced Security and Compliance: Cybersecurity is a top business priority in today's digital landscape. Managed IT services provide businesses access to advanced security technologies and expertise to protect their data and systems from cyber threats. Managed service providers (MSPs) employ rigorous security protocols, including firewalls, antivirus software, encryption, and intrusion detection systems, to fortify defenses against threats and uphold adherence to industry standards and data privacy regulations.
5. Focus on Core Business Objectives: By outsourcing IT functions to a managed service provider, businesses can free up internal resources and focus on their core business objectives. MSPs take on the day-to-day management and maintenance of IT systems, allowing business owners and employees to concentrate on driving innovation, serving customers, and growing their businesses without being distracted by IT-related issues.
6. 24/7 Support and Monitoring: Managed IT services provide businesses with round-the-clock support and monitoring to ensure their IT systems are always available and performing optimally. MSPs offer help desk support, remote troubleshooting, and onsite assistance as needed to address IT issues and minimize downtime. With 24/7 monitoring and response, MSPs can quickly identify and resolve problems outside of regular business hours to keep businesses running smoothly.

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What Is a Managed Service Provider (MSP)?

A Managed Service Provider is a third-party company offering IT services and solutions to businesses, organizations, or individuals. MSPs are outsourced to manage, monitor, and maintain various aspects of their clients' IT infrastructure and systems.

The core function of an MSP revolves around taking charge of the daily management and operation of IT tasks, enabling clients to concentrate on their core business goals without being burdened by the intricacies of IT management. MSPs provide an extensive array of services, which might comprise:

1. Network Monitoring and Management: MSPs monitor and manage their clients' network infrastructure, ensuring it operates efficiently and securely. This includes monitoring network traffic, performance, and security, as well as managing network devices such as routers, switches, and firewalls.
2. Cybersecurity Services: Managed Service Providers (MSPs) offer cybersecurity solutions aimed at safeguarding clients' data and infrastructure against various cyber threats, including malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and data breaches. This encompasses deploying protective measures like firewalls, antivirus software, intrusion detection systems, and enforcing stringent security protocols.
3. Data Backup and Disaster Recovery: MSPs offer data backup and disaster recovery services to ensure their clients' critical data is securely backed up and quickly restored during data loss or a disaster. This includes implementing backup solutions, testing backup procedures, and creating disaster recovery plans.
4. Cloud Services: MSPs provide cloud services such as cloud migration, IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. This allows clients to leverage cloud technology to improve scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency.
5. Managed Endpoint Security: MSPs offer managed endpoint security services to protect their clients' endpoints, such as desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets, from cyber threats. This includes deploying endpoint protection solutions, managing security updates, and enforcing security policies.
6. Help Desk and Technical Support: MSPs provide help desk and technical support services to assist clients with IT issues and inquiries. This may involve remote troubleshooting, onsite support, and 24/7 monitoring and response.
7. IT Infrastructure Management: MSPs manage and maintain their clients' IT infrastructure, including servers, storage, networking, and virtualization. This ensures that IT infrastructure components are configured correctly, perform optimally, and are secure and compliant with industry regulations.

Managed IT Services Tools for MSPs

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) rely on various tools and software to effectively manage and support their clients' IT infrastructure. These tools help MSPs monitor, manage, and secure their clients' systems and streamline internal operations. Here are some common types of tools used by MSPs:

Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) Tools

RMM tools allow MSPs to remotely monitor and manage their clients' IT systems and devices. These tools provide real-time insights into the health, performance, and security of endpoints, servers, networks, and other infrastructure components. Popular RMM tools include ConnectWise Automate, SolarWinds RMM, Kaseya VSA, and NinjaRMM.

Professional Services Automation (PSA) Software

PSA software helps MSPs streamline their business operations, including ticketing, time tracking, billing, project management, and customer relationship management (CRM). PSA tools enable MSPs to efficiently manage client interactions, automate repetitive tasks, and track service delivery metrics. Examples of PSA software include ConnectWise Manage, Autotask PSA, and Syncro.

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Solutions

SIEM solutions allow MSPs to collect, analyze, and correlate security event data from various sources to detect and respond to security threats. SIEM tools provide real-time monitoring, threat intelligence, incident management, and compliance reporting capabilities. Popular SIEM solutions include Splunk, IBM QRadar, and LogRhythm.

Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP)

EPP platforms provide comprehensive security solutions to protect endpoints such as desktops, laptops, servers, and mobile devices from malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats. EPP tools typically include antivirus, anti-malware, firewall, intrusion detection, and device control features. Examples of EPP platforms include Bitdefender GravityZone, Sophos Intercept X, and Trend Micro Worry-Free Services.

Backup and Disaster Recovery (BDR) Solutions

BDR solutions help MSPs ensure the continuity and availability of their clients' critical data and systems in the event of data loss, corruption, or disaster. These solutions automate the backup process, provide secure storage, and enable fast recovery of data and applications. Popular BDR solutions include Veeam Backup & Replication, Datto Backupify, and Acronis Cyber Backup.

Network Management Tools

Network management tools enable MSPs to monitor and manage their clients' network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points. These tools provide visibility into network performance, traffic patterns, and security events, allowing MSPs to optimize network efficiency and troubleshoot issues proactively. Examples of network management tools include SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor, PRTG Network Monitor, and Cisco Meraki Dashboard.

Cloud Management Platforms

Cloud management platforms help MSPs oversee and control their clients' cloud environments, including public, private, and hybrid clouds. These platforms provide centralized management, monitoring, automation, and governance capabilities across multiple cloud services and providers. Popular cloud management platforms include VMware Cloud Director, Microsoft Azure Management Portal, and AWS Management Console.

Collaboration and Communication Tools

Collaboration and communication tools facilitate seamless communication and collaboration among MSPs, clients, and team members. These tools include email, instant messaging, video conferencing, document sharing, and project management platforms. Examples of collaboration tools include Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, and Google Workspace.

What’s the Difference Between Managed IT Services and Cloud Services?

Who Needs Managed IT Services? 

Managed IT services benefit many businesses, organizations, and industries. Here are some examples of who can benefit from managed IT services:

1. Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs)

Small and medium-sized businesses frequently find themselves without the necessary resources and expertise to efficiently manage their IT infrastructure. Managed IT services provide SMBs access to experienced IT professionals and advanced technologies without investing in hiring and training an in-house IT team.

2. Enterprise Businesses

Large enterprise businesses can benefit from managed IT services, particularly in areas lacking internal expertise or resources. Managed service providers (MSPs) can help enterprise businesses streamline IT operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.

3. Nonprofit Organizations

Nonprofit organizations often operate with limited budgets and IT resources. Managed IT services offer nonprofits access to cost-effective IT solutions and support, allowing them to focus on mission-driven activities without worrying about IT management.

4. Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers must comply with strict regulations such as Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act to protect patient data. Managed IT services can help healthcare organizations maintain compliance, implement robust security measures, and ensure the confidentiality and integrity of patient information.

5. Financial Institutions

Financial establishments like banks, credit unions, and insurance firms manage delicate financial information and are obligated to comply with regulations like PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard). Utilizing managed IT services can enhance their security stance, minimize cyber threats, and protect customer data.

6. Legal Firms

Legal firms deal with confidential client data and must ensure the security and confidentiality of legal documents and communications. Managed IT services can help legal firms implement secure document management systems, protect sensitive information, and maintain compliance with data privacy regulations.

7. Educational Institutions

Educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities, rely heavily on IT infrastructure to support teaching, learning, and administrative activities. Managed IT services can help educational institutions manage complex IT environments, provide technical support to faculty and students, and ensure the availability and reliability of educational resources.

8. Retailers and E-commerce Businesses

Retailers and e-commerce businesses rely on IT systems to manage inventory, process transactions, and provide online services to customers. Managed IT services can help retailers optimize their e-commerce platforms, enhance cybersecurity defenses, and ensure uninterrupted operation of online storefronts.

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Conclusion

If you're eager to play a pivotal role in managing an organization's IT infrastructure as part of a Managed Service Provider (MSP), consider carving out your career path as an IT Service Manager. Simplilearn offers an exclusive opportunity with its ITIL® 4 Foundation Certification Training Course. This course delves deep into core concepts, terminologies, and industry best practices essential for navigating the ITIL service lifecycle effectively.

FAQs

1. What is meant by managed IT services?

Managed IT services involve outsourcing the responsibility for maintaining, monitoring, and managing a company's IT infrastructure and systems to a third-party provider.

2. What are fully managed IT services?

Fully managed IT services entail comprehensive outsourcing of all IT-related tasks and responsibilities to a service provider, including monitoring, maintenance, troubleshooting, and support.

3. What does an IT managed service provider do?

An IT managed service provider (MSP) offers a range of IT services to clients, including network management, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data backup and recovery, and IT support, aiming to improve efficiency and reliability while reducing costs.

4. Why choose managed IT services?

Managing IT services ensures access to specialized expertise, reduces operational costs, improves scalability and flexibility, enhances security measures, and allows businesses to focus on core objectives without worrying about IT management.

5. What is managed services example?

An example of managed services is a company hiring an MSP to handle its network infrastructure, including monitoring for performance and security, managing software updates, providing helpdesk support, and ensuring data backups are performed regularly.