A reliable and robust network is necessary to ensure operation in this fast-paced business world. A company’s success relies heavily on its network capabilities to be effective and competitive. Generally, managed network services, including maintenance and monitoring, fall under an IT department’s tasks. However, some businesses have departments that are too overworked to maintain a network properly, while others simply don’t have a dedicated team for IT or network services. Whether you want to take these essential tasks off your IT team’s shoulders or outsource the work altogether, one thing’s certain: managed network services will help keep up your business’s momentum. Read on to learn more about these services and if managed network services are the solution you’ve been looking for.

Elevating Connectivity Through Managed Network Services

Managed network services, ranging from managed security to WAN and LAN services, offer to monitor, secure, and enhance an enterprise’s network environment. These essential services keep business operations flowing smoothly, from hardware maintenance to network monitoring and security management.

Here are just a few reasons to go with a managed service provider (MSP):

Enhanced Reliability and Performance

Network reliability is paramount in maintaining continuous business operations and workflows. Managed network services provide preventive care, detecting problems so they do not spiral out of control into network outages. Adopting a proactive approach reduces downtime and ensures continuous business activities, leading to higher efficiency in performance.

Tailored Solutions and Scalability

Each business has unique requirements, and managed network services can address different requirements. This ensures that each company has a tailored solution for their particular needs. In addition, the services can expand in line with a growing demand as well as a changing technological landscape. Services can also be scaled back depending on the business’s needs.

Robust Security Measures

Cyber attacks are the greatest danger for business nowadays. For that reason, managed network services have robust security measures such as maintaining firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security updates. Constantly monitoring these services will help to ensure that confidential information is protected against any possible attack on a business.

Expert Support and Optimization

Having a network team helps relieve pressure from internal IT departments by having a dedicated group of experts monitor systems so they can focus on other tasks. These experts usually come with specialized and up-to-date knowledge of the latest practices and trends to ensure the network is always optimized and secure.

How to Choose a Managed Network Services Provider

Choosing a managed network services provider is similar to hiring an MSP for other services. There are a few core factors to consider when researching providers to handle this essential part of your operations. They include:

Specialization and Expertise

General IT service providers have some expertise in managing networks. But when you’re looking into managed network service providers, you want something a little more than general knowledge. You need experience and, if possible, specialization in specific areas like migration planning and management in different areas like cloud computing.

Since many businesses have moved to a work-from-home model (or a hybrid), a qualified provider will also have some knowledge about implementing and monitoring solutions for employees with home offices.

Review References

A potential service provider may say all the right things, but the proof is in their experience with previous clients. Don’t be afraid to ask for and follow up with clients who have previously worked with the service provider. Testimonials, reviews, and endorsements can also tell you much about a prospective MSP.

Beyond the obvious question of whether they can deliver on what they promise, also read between the lines. What experience does the MSP have with your industry? Are their past clients the same (or a similar) size as yours?

You want to choose a provider with a proven track record and a solid reputation. Not only will this give you peace of mind, but you can also rest assured that their experience will prove an asset when tailoring your solutions.

Understand the SLA (Service Level Agreement)

The service level agreement (SLA) is where every detail is ironed out and agreed upon in writing. An SLA is typically when you and your partner provider set the standards of quality that the service will maintain throughout the duration of the contract. It also outlines what to do if the quality standards aren’t being met (according to the metrics provided in the SLA).

Understand Pricing Models

Since one of the benefits of hiring a managed network services provider is to reduce costs, price will be a significant factor for many businesses. Most service providers follow four pricing models: tiered, by user, by device, and customized (or a la carte). While many may adopt a few or all of these models, they’re not obligated to, so it’s essential to understand how you’re paying for services.

Tiered packages are usually plans that have a set outline of services. Some providers will have different tiers like “Basic” or “Pro,” much like any subscription service; the more you pay, the more you receive.

The problem is this is a one-size-fits-most approach with the assumption that your business needs will fall into one of these pre-packaged tiers. The result may be accepting less or paying for more than you need. However, some companies prefer this approach because of its pricing stability – you know exactly how much you’ll pay each month.

Paying by user or by device is fairly self-explanatory. Your “per user” price doesn’t refer to the number of employees your business has. Instead, it relies on the people hooked into the IT infrastructure. Along the same lines, a “per device” price model depends on the number of computers hooked into your network. You’ll pay a flat fee for each device, but keep in mind that this typically includes mobile devices.

A customized approach means that you only pay for what you need. Many businesses may gravitate to this model as the most cost-effective, but remember that it’s only as good as your own knowledge. When in doubt, consult the provider to decide exactly what you need.

Enhance Your Business Connectivity Today

Ready to elevate your business with reliable managed network services? If you’re in the Troy, Detroit, or Flint areas, let Elite Imaging Systems fortify your network for seamless operations. Contact Elite Imaging Systems to unlock the power of a robust and secure network infrastructure, enabling your business to thrive in a competitive digital landscape.