As innovations in technology expand and society continues to value speed and convenience, businesses of all sizes and industries need to be intentional with their IT. Knowing the best way to go about this can be a serious challenge, especially when technology isn’t your area of expertise. A survey from JumpCloud showed that 87.5% of IT decision-makers for businesses have found the same answer: Hiring an MSP. Maybe you’re here because you’re one of this majority who’s already interested in managed IT solutions, or maybe you’re exploring your options. Either way, you’ll want to see these five services that will boost your team’s security and productivity.

What Is an MSP?

MSP stands for managed service provider. It’s a third-party business that offers outsourced IT support to manage technology systems, networks, and assets. MSPs generally offer a wide range of services (like cybersecurity, software management, etc.) and clients can choose which ones they’ll use based on their current needs. Partnering with an MSP is particularly beneficial for companies that lack the knowledge, resources, or time to hire, train, and maintain an in-house IT team. They can enjoy the security and productivity of well-managed technology while still focusing on the core operations of the company.

Popular Managed IT Solutions

The beauty of managed IT is that it can be exactly what you want it to be. So while everyone’s IT solutions will differ, here are a few common services you’ll want to check out.

1. Cloud Management

The Cloud is a convenient way to store and organize data, and an MSP can help you make the most of this resource. They have the tools and expertise to help optimize the organization of your cloud infrastructure, set up backup schedules, enable file-sharing capabilities, and implement security measures to ensure your data is protected.  If you’ve yet to utilize online storage in your business, your IT team can also help you migrate to the cloud, freeing up on-site storage, reducing the risk of data loss, and streamlining operations.

2. Cybersecurity

Just as you lock the doors and set up an alarm system at your physical office, it’s crucial to protect the digital aspects of your company as well. Managed IT solutions almost always include a wide variety of cybersecurity measures, including network monitoring, anti-virus software, compliance services, and more. IT professionals who specialize in your industry can curate the perfect combination of these strategies to safeguard your business and make technology an asset rather than a risk.

3. Business Continuity Planning

It’s impossible to know exactly when a hacker will breach your systems or a natural disaster will strike, but with the right managed IT solutions, you can know how to react. Business continuity planning focuses on keeping your business up and running during less-than-ideal conditions and minimizing downtime after an incident. Your IT team will work with you to make a plan that covers a broad range of issues and solutions, including communication strategies and how to keep systems going, even if it’s at a less effective rate than usual.

4. Disaster Recovery

Disaster recovery is similar to business continuity planning, but it has the more specific goal of restoring IT systems to full working order and recovering critical data. Where business continuity is all about staying open no matter what, disaster recovery is about returning to normal workflows and paces. Techs can install software and implement processes like data backup procedures and safety measures so that your IT systems can be back at full speed as soon as possible.

5. Co-Managed IT

Co-managed IT is the ideal option if you already have an IT team on staff but are also looking for access to more tools and insights. With this arrangement, your existing IT techs work together with techs from a third-party IT company. This partnership strikes a great balance and blend of strengths: Your team knows your business in and out, and the outsourced team has extensive knowledge and resources to contribute. You can utilize all of the same services offered with fully managed IT solutions while still taking the lead on your technology operations.

iTology: The Ultimate Solution

At iTology, your business’s growth and success is our first priority. Your unique systems will be our guide as we offer not only industry-specific but also company-specific services. Our managed IT solutions include business continuity planning, cloud management, cybersecurity, and so much more—everything you need to help your organization advance. Interested in reliable, quality IT services in Oklahoma? Don’t hesitate to send us a message! See how you can reach new technology heights with iTology.