If you are evaluating different MSPs, they may focus on different aspects of the services they provide. It is important to make sure that any MSP provides the managed IT services that you need for your business. There are certain services that every business needs, as they are critical for keeping your business secure and functional. Take a look at the top six services to look for with managed IT services.
1. Cybersecurity With Oversight
Cybersecurity is one of the most important features of your managed IT. In recent years, cybercrimes have grown rapidly, and the threats are changing all the time. Any MSP that you work with needs to have an excellent team of experts in cybersecurity who are up to date on the latest issues. OutsourceIT Washington managed IT services are dedicated to integrating new systems, technologies, and processes to help your company grow and stay guarded against cyberattacks. They develop layers of security for your IT infrastructure to make sure that your data and your business are protected.
2. Strategic Tech Advice
Another feature to look for is an MSP that offers strategic tech advice. They should be able to let your company know about the latest technology and how it will improve the efficiency and productivity of your employees. The MSP may have virtual CIOs who can stay on top of the latest industry trends, and they need to explain to you which tools will be ideal to support your goals, both now and in the future. This gives you access to the knowledge you need from an expert without having to hire an expert on your full time payroll.
3. Monitoring, Patching, and Updating
When you hire an MSP for managed IT services, they should always actively monitor, patch, and update your software. They will make sure that your technology has the latest updates as well. This will ensure that laptops, desktops, and mobile devices all have the latest email, anti-virus, anti-malware, and automated patching, and they can monitor for issues remotely.
They also monitor the firewalls, switches, and access points of your network. They will identify issues and apply patches as needed. They monitor your servers and make sure that everything is working and protected.
4. End-User Support
It is important to make sure that you hire an MSP that offers excellent end-user support. Some MSPs outsource this function, and you need to learn what you can before you sign up. Make sure that there aren’t any issues with time zones and operating hours, and there should be no barriers to the support. The communication should be good, and whoever needs support should have access when they need it.
5. Disaster Recovery
Another service that an MSP should provide is disaster recovery or business continuity. If an unexpected disaster occurs, you need to know that your data and your systems are backed up. The only way to keep your information safe and accessible in the event of a disaster or a cyber attack is by having a solid plan for backup and recovery. Your MSP should be able to access your backup data and restore business operations if a disaster occurs. They may store it locally or use a cloud-based backup, and you should know what they do before you sign a contract.
6. Proactive Approach
Any MSP will have the tools to solve problems when they arise, but you want more from this service. They need to take a proactive approach by implementing the latest security measures and doing everything possible to minimize your downtime. They should monitor your systems so that they can catch an issue before it leads to a major problem. They should anticipate your IT needs based on your business so that they keep your equipment operating at its best all of the time.