What Is an MSP (Managed Services Provider)? How It Helps Your Business Thrive
What is an MSP?
A managed IT service provider essentially takes over the day-to-day functions of IT and technology management for businesses, some large homes, enterprises, etc. This helps explain the MSP meaning in IT—it’s more than just a repair service; it’s an ongoing partnership for your tech infrastructure. The idea behind a managed services provider differs from traditional outsourced IT vs in-house IT models and especially from break/fix IT services.
So, let’s say your computer breaks. With break/fix, you call the repair person out, they come out, they diagnose it, they fix it, you pay the bill, and that’s the end of the relationship. With a managed services provider, you basically have an IT specialist on retainer, somebody that’s constantly watching your organization. That’s the difference between an MSP and IT support that only responds when something goes wrong. The managed services provider will usually install software on computers and networks to monitor, maintain, and protect them from inside and outside threats.
Benefits of Using an MSP: Predictable Billing
One of the big benefits of using an MSP is the predictable nature of the billing. Let’s say one month, with a traditional break-fix computer repair outfit, you have a ton of computers that break, and it costs thousands of dollars – or a data breach, or a data loss. It makes it unpredictable and difficult in order to budget for IT costs on an ongoing basis. With managed services providers, you can typically get a flat (or near flat) IT fee for all your IT needs. The fee is typically based on the number of devices that you have on your network or number of employees. Every MSP is a little bit different in that regard.
How MSPs Help Small Businesses with Rapid IT Response
You can also expect that a managed services provider will typically give you a more rapid response when you have a problem than a with a break/fix client. MSPs will take care of computers and networks by protecting them, monitoring them, and setting up an alert system. This is a pro-active service rather than a reactive service. That’s one of the ways MSPs help small businesses maintain stability and security without having to hire an internal IT department.
Signs Your Company Needs an MSP for Better Efficiency
With this option, you really can see an increase in efficiency. An MSP allows you to focus on what you do best. Handing off IT to a managed services provider can be a huge benefit in certain cases. It reduces stress, minimizes downtime, and increases productivity.
If you’re wondering about the signs your company needs an MSP, it might be things like frequent tech problems, difficulty budgeting for IT, or worrying about cybersecurity risks.
If you have more questions about what a managed services provider is, or how to get started with one, send us an email or call (208) 635-4400. You may also benefit from our technology services, including; data cabling, surveillance systems, phone systems, wifi networks, cloud solutions and more.