Managed It Services Vs Cloud Computing: What’s The Difference?

The evolution of technology has a direct impact on organizations. It affects how organizations optimize their workflow, database, and other aspects of the operation. Managed IT Services and Cloud Computing have recently become popular because of their benefits. Yet, although both services are exclusive in their function, people often need clarification on the two. This article helps clear the confusion by explaining the two and highlighting their differences.

What is Managed IT Service?

Computers are the backbone of every professional setup nowadays. For example, employees or business owners use computers to write an email or to design a building. Also, workplaces need computers to execute the most straightforward and complex tasks. Thus, a machine essential for a company should stay updated with the latest operating system. It should be protected against any virus. Furthermore, it must be equipped with all the apps and software the organization uses.

Large-scale companies hire IT professionals who perform all computer health and maintenance tasks. Small businesses cut costs by trying to perform these tasks independently by tweaking the computer systems. Computers only require repair or maintenance sometimes. Hence, companies with full-time IT professionals may feel the money spent on the salary of the IT expert is “wasted”. Small businesses end up in worse situations caused by unprofessional meddling with the system. Managed IT Service comes to the rescue in such cases.

Managed IT Service is a facility where a company provides complete IT solutions to its client organization. The provider of a managed IT service is called a Managed Service Provider (MSP). The MSPs monitor the systems of the workplace. They provide safety against viruses and malware and equip them with all the latest software. They recommend the best software according to the specific needs of a department and suggest system updates when necessary.

What makes these services unique is the fact that they operate on a pay-as-you-go basis. Clients opt for simple payment plans that cater to their needs and are tailored to the size of their companies. They pay for what they sign up for and choose the support they need.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud Computing is an umbrella term that includes the services and applications the internet offers. To simplify it, apps on the internet help users write, send, and receive emails. For example, a set of software helps designers design logos, vectors, and illustrations. There is also software that prevents your computer from a potential virus threat and eliminates any existing ones. 

There are also cloud-based services that allow users to save their data on the cloud instead of external storage or their computers. Users can then access all stored data from anywhere and on any device. All these apps and software come under the umbrella of cloud computing.

Cloud Computing refers to all the software and applications, both online and offline. Cloud computing is free and paid, depending on the needs of an individual user or an organization. Companies provide tailored software exclusive to the need of a particular organization or that serve a sole purpose. This is another example of cloud computing.

How are Managed IT Services and Cloud Computing Different?

Managed IT Services and Cloud Computing seem similar with overlapping purposes. However, some fundamental differences set them apart. Understanding these key differences helps people grasp the exclusive functions both services offer.

1. Scale of Service

The significant difference between Managed IT Services and Cloud Computing is their scale. Managed IT Services cater to companies that need a dedicated team of professionals who can answer their queries. They do not offer services to a single user.

Cloud Computing offers services and softwares to its users. The users can be a single person or an entire company. Gmail is an example of cloud computing. Saas-based companies design software for organizations. They can design software for an organization wishing to track employee performance and attendance, etc.

2. Services Offered

Managed IT service is like a large circle, and cloud computing is a smaller circle within that large circle.

Managed IT Services offer both hardware and software support to clients. An MSP ensures all computers at their client’s workplace have the latest specs, are up to date, run smoothly, and have the needed software installed. In addition, they offer help if any system breaks down, or some application does not respond.

Cloud Computing provides software and applications only. It may tailor software as per the client’s need and offer only help and help related to the software. However, it cannot upgrade a computer system or remove viruses to make sure the said software works smoothly.

3. Cost Involved

Managed IT Services are usually paid. MSPs offer services based on client’s requirements and quote prices accordingly. These services are provided annually or monthly based on what the client prefers.

Applications and software offered by cloud computing may be free or paid, depending on the software and subscription type.

Conclusion

Managed IT services and cloud computing are helpful technological solutions. They take care of the smooth operations of a business so that owners divert their attention toward business growth. Both are exclusive in their function and services. Cloud computing provides software solutions to individual users and organizations.

Managed IT services offer software and support. They cater to the needs of companies and organizations. Therefore, managed IT services are preferable services for companies and corporate setups. Managed IT services are the answer to all your technology-based queries. Remember to reach out to a reliable MSP for quick solutions and business efficiency.