Types of Managed IT Services

Managed Services is a vague term. We covered this in our guide to all things managed services. But, just as confusing as the name, is what Managed Services entail.

Managed Services Providers can manage different aspects of your technology environment through different types of plans, all of which include different services. The three most common models are the co-managed, fully outsourced, and application management plans. Each provider differs in their specific offerings, but there are a few common services that most MSPs offer. Let’s dive into the guide to managed IT services pricing guide.

Networks and Infrastructure 

Network and Infrastructure Services include a variety of tasks related to the administration and management of your network systems, most of which are day-to-day maintenance tasks to keep systems functioning optimally. An MSP can take over tasks such as:

• Managing software and hardware
• Support for network equipment
• Wireless device network reporting
• Installing patches and updates
• Monitoring performance and connectivity
• Managing backups

A provider will be hands-on with your network and use proactive network monitoring to ensure your network operates smoothly so you don’t have to. PEI offers networking services as part of our fully outsourced plans, and we also offer a Network & Connectivity application management plan for businesses only looking for help with their network.

Cloud Infrastructure 

As more and more of our work and personal lives move online, it’s no wonder that Cloud Infrastructure Services are in high demand. It seems the more systems and processes that can be moved online, the better because it allows employees to access their work from anywhere. Cloud Infrastructure Services are a cost-effective way to provide flexibility to your business because it makes scaling services to grow with a business easy.

Each provider’s offerings differ, but common Cloud Infrastructure Services include:

• Administration tasks and monitoring for cloud networking components
• Managing virtual servers
• Installing updates
• Monitoring performance
• Managing storage

Some providers may even offer services for cloud apps or operating systems. As part of our cloud services, PEI offers Azure consulting services to help cloud users better employ Azure. The consulting service provides guidance on cost management, security, reliability, operational efficiency, and performance so our customers get the most out of their Azure subscription.

Communications 

A Managed Service Provider can create more efficient communication within your company by managing communication solutions. Just like with Cloud Infrastructure, all providers are different in their Communications offerings. Some will offer different software for messaging, calling, and data sharing, while others offer one solution for all of these needs. As a Microsoft Partner with a Gold Communications Certification, PEI works with Microsoft Teams. Teams is a one-stop-shop for all business communication needs if it is managed properly.

Microsoft Teams infrastructure can be hosted on-premises or in the cloud, both of which are manageable by an MSP. When Teams is on premises, a provider manages the physical servers, edge servers, session border controllers, and network connectivity. When it comes to the cloud, your provider has less to manage as it cuts out a lot of the physical hardware. PEI’s Communications Services focus on:

• Proactive monitoring of SBCs, Firewalls, and Switches
• Teams service delivery interruption root cause analysis, and resolution
• Management of user accounts
• Monthly monitoring and usage reports
• Support of Teams handset firmware
• Microsoft 365 Backup for users
• Support desk and after-hours support

Communications solutions are available as part of a fully outsourced plan, or in the form of an application management plan depending on the needs of your business.

PEI holds three Microsoft Gold Competencies for Cloud Services, and a Gold Competency in Communications. Read more about what it means to work with a Microsoft Gold Partner here.

Security 

You probably value your business’s security. You need to keep your data safe if you plan to build trust with clients. Managed Security is a growing service as it includes any remote security solution your business may need, from network and cloud security to mobile device management. There are a number of Security Solutions, and it is up to you to decide what your business needs.

PEI’s managed security offering provides protection for six major attack vectors in your business:

• Cloud Environment
  • Data backups
• Servers and Workstations
  • Regular patch installations
  • Antivirus and antimalware solutions
• User Accounts and Credentials
  • Multi-factor authentication
  • Login attempts reporting and monitoring
• Email and Inboxes
  • Advanced email filtering and scanning
• Internet Filtering
  • DNS filtering
• User Behavior and Awareness
  • Simulated attacks as a training mechanism

Managed Security Services can come from a Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP), a fully outsourced plan with an MSP, or an application management plan that includes your specific security needs. Security is essential for the success of any business and should be a top priority when considering Managed Services.

Software as a Service

Software as a Service (SaaS) is just what it sounds like. An MSP manages software platforms for your business. If you notice a software license such as Office 365 is included in your Managed Services Plan, and they help manage the service, your provider offers SaaS. Managing software can include:

• Configuration and Management
• Usage Reporting
• Managing Users (adding/removing/changing permissions)
• Software Backup and Support
• Software Asset Management

Software as a Service applies to more than just Microsoft Office. Some providers manage communication or anti-virus software as part of their offerings. (Remember the Communications and Security Services we covered earlier?) PEI offers the training platform QuickHelp in this way, which provides clients with training resources they would otherwise need to purchase a subscription for.