What is manged IT services?
Managed services is an approach to outsourcing the responsibility for keeping and anticipating future demand for, a set of functions and processes in order to enhance organisational performance and cut costs. These services may be internal or external-to-an organisation’s internal IT systems. The aim of a managed services company is to implement IT policies and practices that lead to cost savings, thereby improving productivity, quality, reliability, as well as operational performance.
Managed services providers are professional service providers that specialise in providing online portal applications and web application development solutions. They are primarily hired for e-commerce, software design, web site development, information technology infrastructure and application development. Typically, the service providers are hired to maintain the business’s information technology infrastructure by handling all the software applications that would otherwise be maintained internally. Managed service provider companies typically charge for the time they take to implement their IT solutions.
There are various types of managed service providers available, depending on your needs and budget. The most common types include the following: Information technology services offer web site development, web hosting and server administration. Enterprise resources management services offer a wide range of management roles, including servers, storage, networking and workstations. There are also software development solutions that offer software implementation, database integration, technical consulting, and testing. On the other hand, software engineering solutions provide a comprehensive range of solutions for software design, development and deployment.
If you are looking for a managed services provider, it is important that you find one that proactively seeks new business opportunities and develops plans for expanding its existing business. A managed services provider should not only look for new clients but also those businesses that have already entered into a contracted relationship with the company. Many times a managed service provider will partner with a client prior to offering them direct services. This ensures that a company is not just getting a contract with another firm to manage their IT portfolio.
In addition, Managed Services Outsourcing allows businesses to get assistance from IT specialists that specialize in a specific field. Businesses that want to outsource their IT need to companies that have specialised knowledge in that area. For instance, if a business wants to outsource network services, it is better to deal with a managed services market provider that specializes in that field than a general service provider that offers a broad range of expertise.
When choosing a managed service provider, it is also advisable to check their experience and maturity. The more experience that a provider has, the more likely that they can provide a high level of support. And as businesses grow, it is important that their IT systems are kept up to date at all times. A proactive managed service provider would be able to proactively monitor their own downtime and resolve any problems before they cause any problems for their clients. They should be able to provide solutions to problems, even when a problem was not identified in the operational setup.
Finally, there is also the matter of price. It is important for businesses to find an IT service provider that can deliver cost-effective support services while maintaining a good rapport with its clients. For instance, an MSP should be able to proactively provide solutions to problems without waiting for a client to contact them first. In addition, a proactive MSP would be able to provide solutions to different types of problems, such as those involving hardware issues, without taking too much time to respond to a simple email from a client. And finally, an efficient MSP should be able to reduce the overall operational costs, such as those connected to providing managed services for virtual private servers.
Choosing A Managed Services Provider (MSP)
When choosing a managed services provider, it is advisable to look for one that specialises in the particular field that the client needs to be addressed. This way, they know exactly what resources they will need to carry out their work, and are better equipped to manage the job. In addition, an IT services provider specializing in managed services for virtual private servers should be familiar with the latest technology, so that they can offer the best advice when it comes to solving technical problems associated with the servers. Finally, this type of provider should be flexible enough to meet the demands of any business, as well as highly specialized in their approach to resolving technical issues.
Managed Services Providers In Australia
| Company | Description | Services | Partners | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Focus | First Focus is Australia’s best managed service provider for medium sized organisations. With tens of thousands of end users supported across hundreds of customers, First Focus has the experience and capability to deliver comprehensive managed … | VoIP, IaaS, Hyper-convergence, Email Security, Data Storage, DaaS … | Webroot, HPE, HP, Fortinet Authorized, Dell Authorized, ConnectWise … | Philip Barton Head of Client Services |
| Brennan IT | For over 21 years, Australia’s Leading Managed Services Provider, Brennan IT, offers an extensive range of services that can be custom designed based on your current and future business needs. Brennan IT was founded to provide Australian … | VoIP, ERP, Email Security, Ecommerce, Dynamics 365, Domain Hosting … | VMware Advanced, HPE Gold, HP Gold, Fortinet Silver, EMC², Dell Gold … | Michelle Primmer Head of Marketing Communications |
| Interactive | Interactive is one of Australia’s leading Managed IT service providers. We are the supplier of choice for critical Cloud and Managed Services, Data Centre, Business Continuity and Hardware Maintenance for more than 2000 of Australia’s most … | Virtualization, Colocation, Cybersecurity, Data Storage, Hosted Exchange, Hyper-convergence … | VMware Advanced, CA, Cisco Gold, Citrix, CommVault, IBM … | Mal McHutchison CEO |
| CompNow | CompNow is an Australian owned Information Technology service provider, established in Melbourne 1990. Since then, we’ve grown from a small IT reseller to one of Australia’s largest privately-owned IT service providers and are recognised as … | Virtualization, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, Cybersecurity, DaaS … | VMware Advanced, Apple, Aruba Gold, Cisco Premier, Dell Platinum, Extreme Net. Gold … | Andrew Charles Executive Sales Director |
| TechPath | Many organisations across Australia depend on TechPath to provide the technology solutions that make them more productive and successful. By aligning technology solutions we enhance business capabilities and increase security. Working with … | VoIP, Colocation, Cybersecurity, Email Security, Hyper-convergence, IaaS … | Webroot, Citrix CSP, Datto, Dell Gold, Microsoft Gold, Ruckus … | Troy Adams Managing Director |
| Huon IT | We are an Australian based IT consultancy firm, and part of the Kyocera Group. We specialise in strategic planning, managed services, project implementation, cybersecurity and cloud initiatives. Our team services small, medium and large … | VoIP, Hosted Exchange, Email Security, Dynamics 365, DevOps, Data Storage … | Zerto, Cisco, Citrix, Fortinet, HP, HPE … | Lindsay Rhodes Senior Solutions Advisor |
| HD IT | HD IT is an innovative and professional IT provider for small to mid-sized businesses throughout Australia. Our core values are based on being responsive, competent, friendly, and awesome. We bring the ‘WOW’ back into IT and we have experienced … | VoIP, ERP, Email Security, Dynamics 365, Data Storage, DaaS … | WatchGuard, Intel, IBM, HPE Platinum, HP Gold, Gfi … | George Hanna Managing Director |
| mcr IT | Since 1987, mcr IT has been a trusted provider of IT solutions and support for Australian businesses. Our stated mission is to make IT work for you. Today, mcr IT focuses on delivering reliable, cost-effective, Managed IT Services to SMEs. With … | Virtualization, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, DaaS, Data Storage, Email Security … | VMware Advanced, Cisco Gold, Dell Gold, HP Gold, HPE Gold, Meraki … | Sam Vakili CEO |
| Kaine Mathrick Tech (KMT) | Kaine Mathrick Tech is Australia’s leading Managed Service & Cyber Security provider, providing IT infrastructure services, enabling an efficient and secure modern workplace for employees and businesses. We advise Australian businesses on IT … | IaaS, Identity Management, IT Consulting, Managed IT, Managed Printing, Microsoft 365 … | SolarWinds, Veeam Silver, Amazon APN Advanced, Aruba Business, ConnectWise, Datto Enterprise … | Bradley Kaine Managing Director |
| Data#3 Limited | Data#3 Limited (DTL) is an ASX listed company that provides market-leading business technology solutions in a Hybrid IT environment from on-premise to outsourced to cloud across a wide range of industries throughout Australia and Asia Pacific. … | VoIP, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, Colocation, Cybersecurity, Data Storage … | VMware Principal, Cisco Gold, Dell Titanium, EMC² Titanium, Forcepoint, HP Platinum … | Laurence Baynham CEO |
| Nexon Asia Pacific | Nexon Asia Pacific (Nexon), a cloud and managed service provider, delivers IT for dynamic business. It deeply connects people, with innovative technology, in productive and efficient ways. Nexon’s solutions enable clients to run their … | Email Security, Identity Management, Managed IT, Managed Printing, Microsoft 365, Networking & Wi-Fi … | NetApp Gold, Veeam, SAP, Riverbed, Proofpoint, Poly … | Louise Touma Marketing Manager |
| Xello | We believe there’s a better way to provide technology solutions. We take a forward-thinking approach where customers are partners, and digital transformation is all about the ‘why’ for today – and tomorrow. | GCP, DevOps, Cybersecurity, Cloud Migration, Azure, AWS | VMware Partner, Palo Alto, Microsoft Gold, Amazon | Peter Lillywhite Managing Director |
| Office Solutions IT | Work-hard, feel-good IT solutions and consultancy. Taking the complexities away form IT is what we do. We make sure everything works, day in, day out. And not just your inbox. From security and operational costs, through to data-driven business … | VoIP, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, CRM, Cybersecurity … | Webroot, Cisco, ConnectWise, Dell, HP, HPE … | James Sutherland Director |
| Quorum Systems | Quorum is a highly advanced and innovative professional and managed services provider that uses targeted IT solutions to suit the demands of the modern business environment. We provide organisations with revolutionary and sophisticated technologies … | SD-WAN, Microsoft 365, Networking & Wi-Fi, Managed IT, IaaS, Cybersecurity … | Microsoft Gold, Fortinet Gold | Mark McLean Managing Director |
| Comunet Pty Ltd | Comunet was established in 1995 to provide professional IT consulting services and solutions to Australian businesses and organisations. Our vision is to provide our customers with a unique level of highly specialised computer network support … | Web Development, AWS, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, Cybersecurity … | Zerto, Apple, Citrix Silver, Fortinet, HP, IBM … | Alexei Fey CEO |
| Diamond Information Technology | Diamond is one of the leading IT and Communications Managed Service Providers in Australia offering innovative Technology solutions to the Small to Medium Business (SMB) market. We help organisations achieve their business goals by delivering … | Web Development, AWS, Azure, Cloud Migration, Data Storage, Dynamics 365 … | Microsoft Gold, Kaseya, HPE, HP, Google, Cisco … | Robert Buck Managing Director |
| Harbour IT | Harbour IT is an Australian company that provides a range of IT Services for Australian based companies. Harbour IT was founded in 2001 and today boasts a team of over 200 highly trained and talented staff. In October 2014 Canon Australia acquired … | VoIP, Hyper-convergence, Email Security, Data Storage, DaaS, Cybersecurity … | VMware Advanced, Juniper, IBM, HPE, HP, EMC² … | Steve Evans General Manager |
| ADITS | At ADITS, we implement progressive technology solutions which enables your business to achieve its mission. We are an internationally recognized Managed Service Provider, currently supporting over 5700 users. ADITS specialised team of 30 have the … | Email Security, Domain Hosting, DaaS, Cybersecurity, Colocation, Cloud Migration … | Symantec Silver, StorageCraft Platinum, Sophos Gold, Microsoft Silver, HPE, HP … | Ashley Darwen Managing Director |
| The Missing Link | Established in 1997, The Missing Link was born from a vision to help businesses achieve their goals with the right IT solutions and services. We continue to deliver on this promise, helping your business achieve more by transforming your IT for … | VoIP, Email Security, DevOps, Data Storage, DaaS, Cybersecurity … | Zscaler, Fortinet, FireEye Gold, f5, EMC², Dell … | Alex Gambotto Owner |
| ITtelligent Consulting Services | We are ITtelligent; A team of passionate, friendly and personable IT Support specialists who work to solve your IT challenges and configure your infrastructure in a way that supports your future growth. Everything we do is focused on providing … | AWS, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cybersecurity, Data Storage, Domain Hosting … | WatchGuard, Eset, Fortinet, Google, HP, HPE … | Robert Adelman Director |
| XCentral | XCentral is now part of Nexon Asia Pacific. As your total sourcing technology partner, XCentral is your first and only point of call for IT services from hardware, software and application hosting right through to the desktop and support. … | VoIP, ERP, Email Security, Dynamics 365, Domain Hosting, Data Storage … | Webroot, Apple, Cisco, Citrix Silver, ConnectWise, Dell … | Angus Mansfield Owner |
| Mercury IT | Mercury IT delivers comprehensive outcome-based information technology solutions to businesses in Australia. Our offering is highly personalised—we tailor systems to our clients’ strategies, delivering the visibility, control and protection that … | Virtualization, Hosted Exchange, Email Security, Data Storage, DaaS, Cybersecurity … | Webroot, VMware Partner, Trend Micro, Symantec, Microsoft Gold, HP … | Aj Williams Managing Director |
| Empired Ltd | Empired specialises in the design, development and integration of business knowledge, information technology and creativity. Using Microsoft technologies as the base for everything we do, across the full spectrum of enterprise requirements, we work … | Web Development, Dynamics 365, Data Storage, DaaS, Cybersecurity, CRM … | VMware, CA, Check Point, Cisco, Citrix, CommVault … | Russell Baskerville Board of Directors |
| PowerNET IT Solutions | We are a leading technology solution provider (MSP) empowering people and businesses across Australia and New Zealand to be more productive and secure. Powernet IT Solutions was founded in 1994 by Jacob Ohlson as a result of identifying an … | VoIP, Email Security, Dynamics 365, Domain Hosting, DaaS, Cybersecurity … | VMware Partner, Barracuda, ConnectWise, Datto, Fujitsu, HP … | Nick Moran Director |
| SureBridge Pty Ltd | SureBridge IT is a Brisbane based IT cloud and managed services, hardware and maintenance specialist servicing clients across Australia. Along with expertise in systems integration and storage, SureBridge specialises in providing custom IT solutions … | Virtualization, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, Colocation, Data Storage … | Webroot, HP, Dell Platinum, Datto, CommVault, Citrix … | Justin Hansen General Manager |
| Somerville | Somerville is one of the most experienced Hybrid IT solution providers in Australia delivering over 35 years of exceptional service and value to our customers. Public and private cloud services are deployed over our managed network – a diverse, … | VoIP, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, Cybersecurity, DaaS … | VMware Advanced, Aruba, Check Point, HP Gold, HPE Gold, Microsoft Gold … | Craig Somerville Managing Director |
| Computer One Pty Ltd | We’re based in Brisbane, but we have clients across around the country and internationally. They use us because they trust our commitment to resolving their IT issues quickly and delivering projects on-time, on-budget, every time. We’re a … | Web Development, Hyper-convergence, Hosted Exchange, Email Security, Data Storage, DaaS … | VMware Partner, HP, Fujitsu, Dell, Datto, ConnectWise … | James Walker Managing Director |
| Strategic Group | We’re an Australian IT company dedicated to providing a ‘better way’ for businesses throughout Australia. Strategic Group was born in Newcastle NSW in 1989, and since then has expanded across the country. We wanted to be more than … | VoIP, Hosted Exchange, Email Security, DevOps, Data Storage, DaaS … | VMware Partner, ConnectWise, Datto, Dell, Kaspersky, Microsoft … | |
| Linktech Australia | At Linktech Australia our team specialise in helping you get the most from your Digital Transformation. We focus on the technology, so you don’t have to, by helping you choose the best-suited technology for your objectives, configure … | VoIP, Hosted Exchange, GCP, Email Security, Data Storage, DaaS … | Webroot, Aruba, Cisco, Citrix, Google, HP Gold … | Regina Melamed General Manager |
| Correct Solutions | Welcome to Correct Solutions – an IT services company that helps Australian businesses maximise their technology investments by doing IT the “Correct” way. Correct Solutions works alongside you to ensure your technology and business goals are … | VoIP, DaaS, Data Storage, Email Security, Hosted Exchange, Hyper-convergence … | VMware, Microsoft Gold, Cisco | Ryan Spillane Managing Director |
| Bremmar Consulting | Whether we act as your virtual IT services department, complement your in-house resources, audit and recommend technology solutions, or help you move your business systems to the cloud, we are the IT company that works hard to make your work easier. | Virtualization, Microsoft 365, Managed IT, IT Consulting, Hyper-convergence, DaaS … | Zerto, Citrix, ConnectWise, EMC², Meraki, Microsoft Gold … | Brenton Harris Managing Director |
| Truis PTY LTD | Truis was founded 40 years ago under the name Computer Merchants, with a mission to create innovative IT solutions that align with our customer’s unique situations and ambitions. As technology has advanced and our client’s needs have evolved, so … | VoIP, Cybersecurity, DaaS, Data Storage, DevOps, Email Security … | VMware Partner, Juniper Reseller, IBM Platinum, Huawei Authorized, HPE Gold, HP Silver … | Norm Jefferies Managing Director |
| Viatek | Viatek is a services-based organisation delivering tailored business solutions across all aspects of print, IT and communications. Established in 1984, Viatek is proudly Australian owned and operated. With 23 offices across regional and … | VoIP, Colocation, CRM, DaaS, Data Storage, Ecommerce … | WatchGuard, Citrix, Dell, HP, HPE, IBM … | William Gibb COO |
| Nuago | Nuago is a technology service company established in Adelaide, South Australia with a particular focus on enabling small and medium businesses through the use of technology. We believe the best technical minds and solutions should be … | VoIP, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, Cybersecurity, DaaS … | Zscaler, Aruba Gold, Cisco Select, Citrix, Dell Gold, EMC² Gold … | Brendon O’Rourke Managing Director |
| Steadfast Solutions | From our start as a break-fix and procurement option for small businesses, Steadfast Solutions has grown to represent one of the best service management companies in Australia. We service all sizes of customers from boutiques to large retail chains, … | VoIP, Virtualization, Microsoft 365, Managed IT, IT Consulting, Cybersecurity … | StorageCraft, Microsoft Gold, HP, Fortinet, Cisco, Amazon | Craig Jacotine General Manager |
| Ethan Group | Founded in 2002, Ethan Group is an Australian-owned information technology and communications service provider that offers systems integration, technology sourcing, business systems architecture, telecommunications, and information communications … | VoIP, IaaS, Hyper-convergence, Hosted Exchange, Email Security, Data Storage … | VMware Advanced, HP Platinum, Google, Forcepoint Platinum, EMC² Titanium, Dell Titanium … | Paul Kawtal CEO |
| Reflex Technology Group | For over 30 years RTG has been providing educators, businesses and organisations with tailored ICT specialist strategies, solutions and support across Australia. Our solutions include: ICT review, strategies and consulting, infrastructure managed … | Backup & Recovery, Bare Metal, DaaS, Data Storage, Email Security, GCP … | WatchGuard, Cisco, Dell, Fortinet, HP, HPE … | Nigel Thomson Executive Chairman |
| eStorm Australia | At eStorm Australia we believe that when it comes to IT, one size doesn’t fit all. With over 15 years experience, we truly have a passion for what we do. Over 15 years we have built our reputation in the IT industry as being an adaptive, … | VoIP, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, Colocation, Cybersecurity … | VMware, Microsoft Gold, Intel Gold, Google, Dell, Cisco … | Jason La Macchia Managing Director |
| LogicalTech | LogicalTech provides your business with a wide range of IT solutions enabling increasing productivity and to ensure business competitiveness. We deliver solutions to enhance your business success. | Virtualization, Colocation, CRM, Cybersecurity, Data Storage, ERP … | WatchGuard, StorageCraft, Oracle Gold, Microsoft Gold, Barracuda | Mario Misso Director/ Owner |
| ONGC | ONGC create an innovative environment that will help your internal teams and clients through the use of technology. Our main aim as a business is to improve our client’s work-life balance by providing a workspace that helps satisfy your … | SharePoint, Private Cloud, Microsoft 365, Managed IT, Data Storage | Veeam, Sophos, Microsoft Gold, Cylance | Steve Dawson Director |
| Generation-e | Generation-e is the Australian authority in unified communications and cloud technologies. Combining deep expertise and experience Generation-e develops anywhere, anytime solutions that help people engage seamlessly and drive positive business … | VoIP, Cloud Migration, Hosted Exchange, Identity Management, IT Consulting, Managed IT … | Poly, Microsoft Gold, Lenovo, Juniper, Aruba | Andrew Bentley Sales Director |
| Datcom Cloud | Datcom Cloud has been helping businesses get the most out of their IT solutions and expand in new directions since 1997. We specialise in Network & System Integration, Professional Services, IT Procurement, Solutions Architecture, Cloud Computing … | VoIP, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration, Colocation, Cybersecurity … | VMware Partner, HP Silver, Google, f5, Datto, Citrix … | Jay Sayed Managing Director |
| Catalytic IT | Catalytic IT is an independent IT consultancy, specialising in catering to Professional, Retail, Medical, and Education markets. With many years of experience, we have the knowledge that organisations need to stay ahead in today’s technology … | Microsoft 365, Networking & Wi-Fi, Managed IT, IT Consulting, Data Storage, Cybersecurity … | Veeam, Aruba, Cisco, Dell, EMC², HPE … | Matthew Healey Managing Director |
| Command IT Services | Command I.T. Services is a professional IT services company with offices in Perth, Karratha and Port Hedland, Western Australia. Our team consists of experienced professionals who align with our core values of integrity, simplicity and … | SharePoint, VoIP, Virtualization, Azure, Backup & Recovery, Cloud Migration … | Veeam, Cisco, Dell, Fortinet, Gfi, HP … | Bryan Buzzard Managing Director |
| Leap Consulting | Leap Consulting a Perth based IT consultant has developed a unique IT engagement model that covers the 4 critical ingredients necessary to successfully lead you through the simple but powerful changes you need to make to fully align IT with your … | VoIP, Hosted Exchange, ERP, Email Security, Data Storage, DaaS … | Webroot, Cisco, Citrix Silver, ConnectWise, Datto Business, Dell Gold … | Zaun Bhana Managing Director |
| ALINK | We make IT easy for you 24/7. Whatever business you run, IT plays an integral part. But that doesn’t mean you need to be be an IT expert. In fact, it is the last thing you should have to worry about. ALINK’s affordable, proactive IT … | IT Consulting, IaaS, Hosted Exchange, Email Security, Domain Hosting, Data Storage … | VMware Partner, Datto Professional, Dell Platinum, EMC² Authorized, HP, HPE … | Eddie Borg Customer Relationship Manager |
| AffinityMSP | AffinityMSP was created with one goal in mind: to help Australian businesses achieve success through high-performance technology. Our consultants take the time to get to know your business and customise the solutions you need most. We engage with … | Hyper-convergence, Hosted Exchange, Email Security, Domain Hosting, DaaS, Colocation … | Webroot, Barracuda, Dell Authorized, Fortinet Authorized, Google, HP … | Nick Ower Managing Director |
| Empower IT Solutions | Empower IT Solutions understands that not every business can afford a dedicated IT team or specialist to look after their IT needs. This is why we provide IT services that will support you no matter what growth stage your business is at, saving you … | VoIP, ERP, Email Security, Dynamics 365, Domain Hosting, Data Storage … | Webroot, Cisco, ConnectWise, Dell Authorized, Eset, Fujitsu SELECT Expert … | Salim Sukari Director |
| Rodin Business Services | RODIN is a long established IT service provider to businesses and organisations across Australia. We are an intensely customer focused organisation that develops strong and lasting relationships with our customers, and we strive to provide the best … | VoIP, Colocation, Cybersecurity, Data Storage, GCP, IT Consulting … | Sophos Gold, SolarWinds, Microsoft, Lenovo, Google, ConnectWise … | Aaron Jacobs General Manager |
| Forsythes Technology | We’ve been managing and scaling mission-critical IT, networks and communications infrastructure since 1987. We are trusted by organisations Australia-wide. | Web Development, Backup & Recovery, Cybersecurity, DaaS, Data Storage, Email Security … | Zscaler, Citrix, EMC², Fortinet, HP, HPE … | Bill Brennan CEO |
IT Managed Services In Australia
With the development of the IT Industry, the need for IT Managed Services has also grown tremendously, with the growth of this industry. IT Managed service in Australia offers a complete solution to all your requirements in terms of network and data centre maintenance. They are expert in deploying and maintaining these systems. They offer their services to corporations and even small and medium sized businesses. These companies are always ready to respond to your needs and demands, and they are also capable of incorporating any latest technology and applications. The solutions offered by them meet the technological needs of organisations.
Disaster Recovery
Disaster recovery is one of the major services offered by these Managed Services in Australia. They offer complete disaster recovery solutions that include recovery data, networks, and systems. In this way, an organisation can regain the lost data and systems after a disaster or malicious attack. The services include disaster recovery planning, software and hardware upgrades, and migration and application integration. They also cover other normal and non-normal events as per your requirements.
Desktop Management
Desktop management is another important Managed Services offered by these Managed Services in Australia. This is one of the most vital aspects of network maintenance and management that must be done by a company on a regular basis. With the help of a hosted backup application and desktop management application of IT Managed Services in Australia, you can easily backup desktop screens, installed software, installed devices, and shared folders. It helps in security management and administration and it also helps in the maintenance and operation of data centres.
Other Managed Services Include.
- Hardware
- Upgrades
- System Maintenance
- Networks & Storage
- Troubleshooting
- System Recovery
- Software Updates & Patching
- Telephonic customer support
- Migrations
IT Managed Services in Australia also provide IT support including hardware upgrading and system maintenance, network and storage troubleshooting, system recovery, and software updates and installations. It also offers telephonic 24 hours’ access to its team for troubleshooting and all other assistance. Telephonic customer support is another aspect of managed services include in Australia. This helps business owners to avail the services by simply making phone calls to the support centre. IT Managed Services offer different options for its customers.
Business Continuity Solutions
Business Continuity Solutions is another Managed Services offered by IT Managed Services in Australia. This is a solution that offers application integration services to help businesses in achieving maximum operational and business productivity. Application integration services help in getting the applications, platforms, and devices working together to help in completing work faster. This solution also helps in managing the overall infrastructure, including servers, desktops, storage, network, and desktop.
These are some of the different Managed Services offered by IT Managed Services in Australia as seen in the provided list above. There are many more like virtualisation services, cloud computing, and file management. IT Managed Services ensure that businesses have the best help desk experience, through technology that is always available. IT Managed Services helps in providing solutions for the whole business continuity plan. This includes service interruption, training needs, and upgrades on hardware and software.
8 Things A Managed IT Support Services Agreement Should Cover
So you’ve decided to get managed IT support services for your business. But do you know if you’re getting everything you should be from your agreement? Like any other kind of agreement, an IT service agreement can be filled with difficult to understand jargon which can make it a little difficult for the layman to understand exactly what he’s getting himself into. You might be tricked into thinking you’re getting more than you actually are!
To know whether a deal is too good to be true, here are a few things your managed IT support service agreements should include:
Services provided
First and foremost, before getting into any kind of contract with an MSP (Managed Service Provider), check if they have the expertise required to complete the services they offer. If the MSP does not provide any service in your package, this should be clearly outlined. Here are a few services they should be providing that can be an indicator of whether you’re getting the bang for your buck:
- Network administration and network monitoring.
- Technology management which includes (but is not limited to) anti-spyware, email, spam and malware management, desktop/laptop optimisation, data backup administration and documentation.
- Support services. Is the MSP going to be available whenever you need them? How quick is their expected response time? Does your agreement include help desk support, on-site and mobile support, remote problem identification and resolution?
- Dedicated account management. How many people are going to be managing the network systems of your company? What is the turnover rate of the MSP you’re hiring? Knowing there’s a dedicated team that knows the insides and outsides of your business, common IT issues and processes helps maintain continuity for your business.
- Data backup. What happens in case of a loss of data? Does your MSP have the appropriate systems in place to ensure minimum downtime in such a case?
Performance Standards
Does your agreement specify what you should expect from the health and functioning of your systems? These may include OS and hardware requirements, update levels, spyware and firewall versions, and other information. You should have a clear idea of what you’re getting and what to expect.
Fee Breakdown
Many MSPs quote a lump sum amount in their contracts. This is bad practice. If an MSP cannot break down their costs and identify exactly how much each service costs, or cannot tell you of any other potential fees that may be incurred outside of the flat-rate fee, you might want to doublethink getting into a contract with them. Similarly, look whether the agreement specifies when payments are due and what happens if you miss a payment. Total transparency is key when signing any contract. You need to have complete trust in your MSP so you can get the most benefit out of them.
Confidentiality Clauses
When you’re trusting an MSP with safeguarding your confidential data and company practices from outside threats, the last thing you want is for the data breach to come from the MSP themselves. This can be avoided by carefully locating the clause which mentions what systems the company has in place to protect your confidential information and who has access to it. Additionally, ask what the MSP does to protect its own systems from cyberattacks. Finally, what happens after your contract ends? Do they still honor the terms of the agreement?
Termination Clauses
You don’t want to be stuck in a contract for more than a year with an MSP that isn’t doing their job or is underperforming. Check whether your agreement specifies what are acceptable grounds for termination and if there’s a fee attached with it.
Exclusions
What doesn’t your MSP cover? Whether you’re purchasing a customised plan for your business which doesn’t have certain services, or whether the MSP does not have the resources to offer any certain services, these should be clearly outlined in your agreement.
Disaster Management Plan
What happens in case there is a data breach or a cyber attack? What systems does your MSP have in place to protect you from incurring major losses and downtime? If it is not already included in your agreement, ask for it to be added.
Flexibility
Suppose your business sees a major boom in the next six months and you decide to expand. Or you have been facing consistent losses and might need to downsize. In either case, the terms of your agreement and the extent of your coverage will need to change. Ensure your managed IT support services agreement allows you to change the plan as required according to your company’s needs.
Like any other agreement, a managed IT support services agreement is a legally binding contract that needs to be carefully architectured and evaluated. You don’t want to be paying for services that your company might not ever need, and you don’t want to not be fully covered while paying the full fee!
TOP MANAGED SERVICE TRENDS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN 2021-202
Automation and hosted cloud solutions
Managed services vendors that provide hosted cloud solutions for automated business processes are now viable options for companies seeking to automate their business operations. Automation is becoming more critical to today’s business operations as companies look to reduce their reliance on manual work while still increasing productivity. The dramatic rise in the adoption of cloud computing and multi-service platforms are also lowering operational costs and decreasing the amount of time that a business operations manager must spend on his or her desk. A managed services vendor can help your business reduce costs associated with these changes and increase productivity by automating business operations and implementing an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solution.
Blockchain and IoT
Blockchain and IoT are two technologies which may seem completely unrelated but actually come from the same seed. Both are about smart machines, distributed networks and information systems. Distributed network refers to the ability for machines to work together in what is called the cloud, without any particular server or center. On the other hand, an IoT device refers to a computer network that is linked to various different devices, including industrial ones, personal computers and smart phones.
Infrastructure as a service
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is a virtual cloud computing service in which enterprises rent or lease servers for storage and compute in the cloud. Through these, enterprises can save on server costs as well as other expenses related to maintaining dedicated servers. Through these, users can also run any application or operating system on the rented virtual servers without the need to maintain and support those servers. In other words, the users are able to save on infrastructure costs while getting the same level of support from the provider.
Through the provisioning of Storage as a service (STaaS), enterprises can get access to storage capacity that meets their requirements. In simple terms, users get storage space as per their requirement at the lowest price possible. Through these, they can get access to enterprise-class VDI, NVME and Fibre Channel. Furthermore, the storage capacity is enhanced through managed services and extended through application service offerings.
One advantage of these is that it can help you get the advantages of both on-premises solutions and SaaS. Through a managed services offering, you get improved security and improved remote management, along with improved management of upgrades and patches. Also, through this, you get improved visibility into your applications and better performance. And best of all, it can help you leverage your virtual resources through VDI/Fiber Channel hybrid clouds.
Cyber Security (MSP)
Many small or mid-size companies will need to employ managed services provided by a computer services firm to remotely administer their companies’ network (network infrastructure), cyber security, and other business related functions. But, often MSPs are less attractive targets for cyber thieves because they typically have many customer connections and lots of sensitive data. In order to ensure that a company’s network does not become a cyber attack platform, the best solution is to implement and maintain a network that is always protected. A proactive approach is often the most practical one. Implementing and maintaining a strong firewall and performing security testing at regular intervals are good first steps.
A well-thought out plan of action for a network can help prevent unfortunate events from occurring. Many businesses mistakenly believe that they can handle minor cyber threats themselves, but the reality is that these small events may grow into much larger threats that may overwhelm a small company. A proactive, even aggressive response can minimize the impact of any attacks on a company’s network. A major problem is that many smaller companies don’t understand fully what a cyber security threat is, how it occurs, and how to stop it. The prevention of these attacks requires a highly developed awareness and understanding of the dark web, network security threats, the attackers behind them, and the best ways to defend against and recover from these attacks.
Many companies that use managed cyber security services are able to quickly identify the source of any threats, block them, and recover from these attacks. For smaller companies that cannot afford to invest in complex IT support, an IT professional can help prevent attacks on their network. However, in some cases, even the most vigilant precautions may not be enough to prevent an attack or protect against an attack. In these situations, help from a qualified consultant can be very valuable. Consulting with an experienced consultant will give you the edge over attackers trying to penetrate your network, reduce your risks, and improve your ability to stay ahead of the cyber threats that may continue to threaten your business.
How Managed Services Can Help Your Business
You probably already know the benefits of using a managed services provider for your small business. The main reason many businesses use a managed service provider is because they know they are going to get the support they need from one of these companies. For a lot of smaller businesses, the idea of hiring a person to manage their business instead of paying an expensive in-house employee can seem like an expense that doesn’t make sense. Luckily, there are some things you can do to ensure that you can save money on managed services and still get all of the help you need for your business. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you’re trying to find out how managed services can help your business grow.
First, keep in mind that you shouldn’t be limited by just the managed services contract with your company. You should also be able to get other types of services, like marketing, payroll, and training, included with your managed services contract. If a managed service only offers you the ability to manage your employees, you’ll have to do all of these things on your own. Instead, take the time to talk to someone from managed services to find out what else they can do for your company.
Lastly, don’t assume managed services are going to do everything for you. They’re not, and it’s your job as a business owner to make sure that the managed service you choose is still capable of doing all of the things your business needs. Ask for a list of references that can tell you more about what types of tasks a managed service has performed for other companies. Any managed service that has a good track record will be happy to share their experience with you. This will help you make the right decision for your company, which will ultimately help you make more money!
