5 Benefits Your Organization Gets From Using IT Infrastructure Management Services

 In recent years, IT has become much more powerful. Consumers have a higher expectation of what IT has to offer, making it important for your organization to have strong IT infrastructure management services. Your organization’s IT infrastructure consists of its computers, servers, and data, just to name a few things. The scope of managed services, on the other hand, lean into the administering and maintenance of security, storage, and networking. At the end of the day, the most significant aspect of allyship between your organization and IT infrastructure management services is goal completion. Let’s discuss some of the advantages that these professional services will bring.

Streamline Your Daily Functions

Automation and cloud technologies are no longer optional. In fact, your organization will fall behind if it isn’t reinvented with these core components. By outsourcing your IT services, you acquire the expertise surrounding these technologies and gain back time for your internal staff. They can then focus on business strategy while your IT team covers the updating and hardening of your servers. Having someone to manage your IT infrastructure enhances performance by simultaneously maintaining predictability and anticipating future needs. No longer will downtime be a major issue. Instead, your service provider will act as a hero behind the scenes to monitor and support your devices and networks.

Optimize IT Investments

IT infrastructure management services should be proactive at every level. After all, they aim to save your organization time and money by applying IT best practices. This means that you no longer have to make the decisions about and handle the maintenance of tools, personnel, and processes on your own. Your service provider has the responsibility of choosing the optimal software and hardware, per your budget. Outside of IT infrastructure monitoring, a couple of examples of services consist of updating schedules and documentation protocols to fulfill your investments. At a fixed monthly rate, you are capable of reducing overhead as your system works more efficiently with the advanced methodologies.

Meet Your Organization’s Demands

The scalability of your IT infrastructure is critical to your organization’s success. Your service provider will work alongside you to maintain growth without sacrificing quality. Customized solutions allow your organization the liberty of deciding the tasks that are needed from outsourcing. For instance, you may appreciate the opportunity to shift the burden of compliance. Organizations are expected to meet lawful standards regarding security and reporting. When placed in the hands of your service provider, you get well-established frameworks to achieve online safety that will fulfill any such requirements.

Receive Consistent Support

Technology problems can occur even when you are off the clock. The same goes for threats to your network. IT infrastructure management services provide you with 24/7 support so that you can receive a quick turnaround when something goes wrong. It is impossible for organizations without teams dedicated to IT infrastructure management to predict disasters. This results in them solely having a reactive approach. Understand that this could cost you, in regard to both money and reputation. Partnering with an organized, ever-available service provider will, alternately, mitigate risks from the beginning and provide quick response times toward compromised systems.

Leverage the Latest Technology

Service providers are always on top of the trends in technology. Because it isn’t practical to frequently upgrade your IT infrastructure, your well-funded service provider will integrate the latest tools and techniques into your strategy. Instead of having to get quotes with high up-front costs, they immediately provide these resources to you. Examples include web filtering, vulnerability scans, and inventory management. You also won’t have to continuously train new internal staff members. By combining specialized engineers, virtualization, and cloud-based capabilities, you can keep your IT infrastructure protected and efficient.

When your organization takes on IT infrastructure management services, it is backed by certified providers with years of experience. They are able to create a strategic plan that aligns with your goals and budget. Work with a service provider that offers agile procedures so that you can experience the most positive impact on your in-house performance, on top of the satisfaction of your customers.

Managed IT Service Providers: Edge Computing

With IoT devices and 5G wireless services, the case for edge computing seems to be growing and growing. Edge computing is driven by these new devices that come up, but what is it exactly?  Read on as we dive into what edge computing is and its advantages being utilized by managed IT service providers.

What is Edge Computing?

IBM defines edge computing as “a distributed computing framework that brings enterprise applications closer to data sources.” Data is processed by a local computer/server or the device itself instead of a data center as used in cloud computing. Edge computing takes away the factor of latency issues that can ultimately cause issues in application performance.

Edge computing was developed out of the implementation of the 5G network and the growing presence of IoT devices in recent years. IoT devices use large amounts of data, and the network transporting that data needs to have the bandwidth to be able to operate. Edge computing aids in that bandwidth, as well as allows the use of certain features that an advanced digital framework requires.

What is the difference between Edge Computing and Cloud Computing?

Edge computing is a newer program that essentially shifts the computations to the edge of the network -it is moved as close to the source as possible. Cloud computing is where the data is generated and gathered from multiple locations and moved into a centralized cloud.

Cloud computing can be easier when processing data at scale. However, in situations where there is limited access to the internet or the data cannot have an off-site transfer, edge computing can come in handy.

Edge computing is not a replacement for cloud computing, though. It is simply an extension of cloud computing. Cloud computing is located at the center of the network while edge computing is at the network’s perimeter. Edge and cloud computing work best hand-in-hand.

Advantages of Edge Computing

The main advantage of edge computing is the reduced risk of outages in the network and delays in the cloud. Edge computing can also provide better management of data, lower connection costs, reliable connection, and great security practices. These improvements in speed, security, and reliability at a low cost make edge computing a great potential asset for your company.

The Future with Edge Computing

Over the next few years, edge computing will continue to grow. Technology continues to evolve, and the criteria each company needs continues to adapt. Things like IoT, 5G, AI, and cloud computing have become invaluable services in our technology world today, all of which is complemented by computing.

If you would like to learn more about edge computing, contact your managed IT service provider.

What Do Managed IT Service Providers Do?

 

Many businesses have IT services because it is becoming essential. There are outsourced as well as in-house services that companies have the option of using. Even though IT services are everywhere, do you know what we do for companies? Read on as we explain what IT services are and what we do as a managed IT service provider.

What Is a Managed IT Service Provider?

A managed IT service provider is a third-party company that provides technical services to companies to monitor and manage their IT infrastructure. The services that are provided depend on the package you choose. There are many different terms used to describe them; however, they are essentially the go-to for anything technical within your company.

What Do They Do?

The job of IT services includes a variety of different tasks and skills. Here are a few services that are provided with IT services:

·        Remote Desktop / Office support

·        Cybersecurity

·        Network Monitoring

·        Maintenance

Services vary on the packages that are chosen from the provider. They are customizable to meet the needs of your business, no more and no less. Each business is different, so specifically what managed IT service providers do is monitor and manage your network; however, they can do more if that is what you require.

Is Outsourcing Beneficial?

Outsourcing a managed IT service provider has many benefits. Not only is it cost-effective, but your company can focus on the core business rather than just the technical. These providers are highly skilled professionals that can help with any technical advance or issue that arises.

Having the right people to take care of your network is important. Your business is precious and having the very best watching over it can bring some ease to your mind, knowing that any issue and update will be taken care of by professionals that have been extensively trained.

How Do I Choose the Right Company?

This is a very important question to ask when looking for a managed IT service provider. Before answering that question, your company must evaluate what is needed out of a provider. Define the goals and expectations that you have for them. After those are defined, working with a personable company is important. Being able to talk to multiple people to fix an issue at any given time will come in handy.

That is why at TXSG we pride ourselves on providing team-based service to our clients. We believe that having a trusting relationship with our clients is essential to provide services for our clients to thrive. If your business is looking for a managed IT service provider, contact us and let us know how we can help your business got to the next level. 

Data Loss, Explained by A Managed Cloud Service Provider

 

Backing up your data can seem trivial when everything is going smoothly. However, if a system crashed or the power went out in the middle of a project, it can become a very big problem. Especially for startups, backing up your data is an essential part of your network.

According to a 2019 study, 1 in 5 small businesses close when they experience an attack by malware. When a cyberattack happens to a startup or small to medium businesses (SMBS), the recovery is very costly in time and money. Read on as we explain what the real cost is of not having data backed up and how you can utilize managed cloud service providers to prevent shutdowns.

What is the financial cost of data loss?

The average cost of data loss fluctuates by the year. A study done in 2018 by IBM shows that in 2018, the average global cost per data breach incident was around $3.9 million. Recovery costs can be significantly higher or lower depending on the amount of time passed between the initial breach and resecuring your network.

In 2021, the average cost rose almost 10% from $3.9 million to $4.2 million. This is the highest average cost of data breaches in 17 years.

Downtime due to data loss can, also, provide financial loss. When your network has been breached, the company’s normal operations come to a complete stop. Depending on the company’s size, there can be a loss of thousands of dollars per hour if the network is offline.

What is the non-financial cost?

Losing data can cause a major loss in money; however, there can be additional non-financial consequences as well, such as in the case of a network halt. There can be a stop in production which can affect productivity, reputation, and push out of product.

Service interruptions can cause users to be irritated and can damage loyalty. The reputation of the business is vital. Especially with social media these days, a small negative interaction can cause a large pushback.

What factors can cause the loss of data?

Several different factors can cause the loss of data. Every business is different and there will not be the same cause across each business. Here are a few common causes:

-        Failed Power

-     Accidental / Intentional Data Removal

-    Network Malfunction

-      Natural Disasters

-      Hacking / Malware

-       Theft

What can be done to prevent data loss?

Data loss can be prevented by having backup services in place. Many companies benefit from using managed cloud service providers to set up a cloud to back up data. These services can provide cybersecurity as well as extra storage just in case your companies network shutdown or is compromised. This is what we provide with our Bright Cloud Private Cloud Hosting Service. Contact us today to learn how to secure your data. 

How to Get the Most Value Out of Your MSP Services

Managed service providers (MSPs) offer a lot of value to enterprises that are otherwise unable to carry out IT-related activities on their own. Many MSPs provide multiple types of solutions, so it is important that you and your provider are both aware of the scope of the services you will receive. A service level agreement (SLA) is designed to just that, as it is essentially a contract that outlines the details of the ongoing services that an MSP will perform for your company. That said, just because an SLA exists does not mean that you are taking full advantage of everything your MSP services have to offer. Read on as we discuss a couple ways to get the most value from your contract.

Cut Out the IT Middleman.

Businesses that are accustomed to a break-fix model prior to leveraging MSP services are often used to an arrangement where they have an internal employee screening each IT issue before it is handed over to the provider. This is because using the break-fix model means that every single time the provider is contacted, it costs the organization money. This mindset can act as a hindrance when businesses switch over to managed services if the appropriate changes are not made. In fact, routing tech problems through someone internally first as opposed to directly engaging an MSP can delay the MSP’s response, thereby preventing the company from maximizing the value of their contract. 

Part of your MSP’s job is to identify IT-related subjects that your team might need more training on and problematic pieces of equipment. Having an IT “middleman” perform these tasks undermines the need for a third-party provider at all. Therefore, firms should eliminate any in-house intermediaries that might exist and simply let their MSPs do what they do best.

Don’t Exclude Your MSP From Important Planning Stages. 

When a company is considering implementing a new technology (such as software, hardware, an online application, and so on), they often fail to consult their MSP prior to purchasing it. Failing to contact your IT provider beforehand can lead to a lot of headaches in terms of integrating the new tech into your business’s existing IT infrastructure. 

Instead, it is always better to involve your MSP in the early planning stages, as they can usually help firms choose the software that is best suited for their needs. Your MSP’s software selection and product evaluation processes can provide your enterprise with additional value because it helps you gain a better understanding of what is required for certain technologies to work in your current IT environment. This input can speed up the decision process, as it helps businesses narrow down their options. Moreover, your MSP can give you more insight on additional costs or risks that are involved with the adoption of new tech. For example, MSPs should be able to tell you whether the implementation will require additional security, another server, additional networking, or another adjustment in order to run smoothly. Including your IT provider in the planning process can help you ensure that your organization is fully aware of the total cost of ownership of the software/equipment before investing in it. 

Are you in the market for MSP services? If so, contact us at TXSG today to learn more about the value we can offer your business through our BrightStar Managed IT Services. 

Cybersecurity Tips for the Holidays: From Remote Desktop Support Services to Employee Training

 

For most, the holidays are about giving. However, for the Grinches of the digital world (better known as malicious hackers), the holiday season is the perfect opportunity to steal valuable data from consumers and businesses. Small companies are especially susceptible to cyberattacks, as they tend to lack the funds and staff required for a speedy recovery. Because resources are so limited, small businesses should make cybersecurity a priority this season. Below are some tips on how to protect your network and data, including implementing remote desktop support services, educating your employees about best practices, and more.

Understand Your Industry’s Level of Vulnerability

It is true that every industry has the potential to be targeted by hackers, but some sectors are especially prone to cyberattacks. These include retail, financial, manufacturing, and automotive industries, as they tend to process large sums of money and a lot of private data. To make matters worse in terms of vulnerability, these sectors typically use interconnected devices and automated processes that serve as big targets for scammers. Assessing your level of risk is the first step in preventing breaches and other cybersecurity issues. 

Implement Remote Desktop Support Services

The biggest problem with most small businesses regarding online security is that they do not have any policies or processes in place that actively work to prevent or mitigate cyberattacks. Around the holidays, a lot of employees are working from various locations (vacation destinations, hometowns, etc.), making it even more crucial for companies to implement comprehensive remote desktop support services. These services should be aimed at maintaining a secure network and helping your remote workforce solve any tech issues promptly, regardless of their physical location.

Teach Your Employees About Cybersecurity

Implementing any kind of cybersecurity policy is essentially useless if your employees aren’t properly trained about risk awareness and best practices when working online. Keeping your employees adequately informed about the latest threats and how to recognize and report suspicious activity could be the difference between a secure IT system and a major data breach. 

Familiarize Yourself with Popular Scam Tactics

Hackers will try anything to get valuable data or money from small businesses. This includes everything from phishing tactics to overpayment scams and more. Beware of calls from unknown persons, sketchy websites, pop-ups, and suspicious emails. A cyberattack is the last thing you want and is sure to suck all of the cheer out of this holiday season. 

Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks

Because the majority of companies require a Wi-Fi connection for operations, keeping your IT system safe by hiding your network, making it password protected, using strong passwords, and updating login credentials are all great ways to ward off malicious hackers. If you have guests that might need to connect to your Wi-Fi, it may be wise to set up a private network for employees only and offer a separate guest network for clients to use. 

Make Duplicate Copies of Important Data

Regularly backing up important data through the cloud is great way to prevent any lost data should a mishap (like a natural disaster, data breach, etc.) occur. The holidays are not a time when you want to be scrambling to retrieve lost data should a cyberattack occur, so having duplicate copies of business-critical information is vital. 

Install & Update Antivirus Software

You should always ensure that every device you use for your small business is protected by antivirus, antimalware, and antispyware software. While installing antivirus software is a great first step in keeping your network safe, you must keep in mind that regularly updating your software is just as important. Outdated software can have gaps in security, making you a prime target for hackers and scammers.

Invest in a Virtual Private Network

A virtual private network (VPN) enables mobile devices to connect to other secure networks via the internet and transmit data back and forth safely. This is especially helpful for employees working on the go from their smartphones this busy holiday season. Setting up a VPN is a fairly simple process and can work wonders in terms of cybersecurity, so investing in this type of technology is well worth it. 

By following the above tips, you can rest easy knowing that your small business will remain protected and profitable this season. However, it’s not always as simple as it seems when it comes to keeping your network safe all on your own, especially for smaller companies. If you need assistance supporting a remote workforce, implementing extra security measures, or monitoring your IT system in general, contact us at TXSG today. We are happy to lend a hand and fight off those mean ole cyber grinches with our BrightStar Managed IT Services (designed for both remote and in-office applications) and our BrightCloud Private Cloud Hosting services. Let us handle your pesky tech issues so that you can focus on serving your clients and spreading holiday cheer this Winter.