So you’ve just heard someone throw around another acronym and you have no clue what they’re talking about. Well to get straight to the point, MSP stands for Managed Service Provider.
If you still feel confused about what that means, we don’t blame you. To help give you a better understanding of what an MSP actually is, we’ll dive into some details about what an MSP does, how they operate, and what significance an MSP has for you.
What is a Managed Service Provider?
A Managed Service Provider (MSP) is a third-party organisation who specialises in all things information technology (IT) related.
MSPs offer a comprehensive suite of IT services that allow businesses to outsource their IT needs to experts in the field.
Most commonly, an MSP will handle all of a customer’s IT responsibilities and either fully manage or remotely manage the requirements of that customer. That means the primary goal of the best MSPs should be to ensure there is seamless operation of a company’s IT infrastructure – allowing the business to focus on its core activities.
The Core Services Offered by an MSP
Seeming IT is such a broad field, there are so many services an MSP will offer clients. The services can range from management of a company’s network infrastructure, backup monitoring, cyber security, Microsoft 365, business phone systems, as well as so many additional things.
Help Desk and IT Support
With such a large range of IT needs to cover, the most important service offered by an MSP is their IT support. This involves addressing any issues that arise in real time and providing timely solutions to keep core business activities up and running around the clock.
A help desk will usually offer technical support to company employees and promptly resolve IT-related issues they have – ensuring the customer’s work environment remains productive.
Data Backup and Recovery
Data is a vital asset for any business. A managed service provider should assist with solutions for data backup, storage, and remedial efforts, ensuring that in the event of data loss or system failure, critical information can be retrieved and operations can resume swiftly.
IT Consultation
Part of the role of an MSP is to tailor solutions to you. IT consultation will be different for each business, so an MSP will aim to learn the needs of a customer and help them develop short and long term plans. For example, this could include understanding what devices businesses need, as well as recommendations for when and how they should look to replace equipment. It can also highlight fundamental business activities and the need to set up solutions that reduce risk of costly failure or downtime.
Network Monitoring and Management
MSPs monitor and manage a company’s network infrastructure, ensuring its efficiency, security, and optimal performance. This includes testing and monitoring for potential hiccups and enhancing the network’s overall reliability.
Cybersecurity Solutions
With cyber threats on the rise, MSPs play a critical role in safeguarding businesses against cyber-attacks. They implement robust security measures, conduct regular security audits, and can provide education and training to employees to mitigate risks effectively.
IT Compliance
Many businesses have requirements to adhere to legal, internal, or contractual IT codes of compliance. This can include security standards such as the Australian Cyber Security Centre’s Essential 8 Maturity Model. MSPs can usually offer solutions and structured plans to bring clients in line with their compliance obligations.
Why Are MSPs Important for Australian Businesses?
For Aussie businesses, MSPs are a way to focus more on core business activities and worry less about the cost of potential IT mishaps. Instead of maintaining all of your IT in-house, businesses can rely on experts in the field to provide reliable solutions and peace of mind.
You shouldn’t have to be a tech expert to run and manage your business. The best Managed Service Providers (MSPs) will take control and responsibility of your IT infrastructure and let you concentrate on what you do best.
If you’re interested in learning about what an MSP can do for your business, fill out the form below or give us a call on (02) 6176 3499.
Alternatively you can read more about our Managed IT Service where we take care of all of your IT for you.