With cyber threats lurking around every corner, managed IT services are increasingly important for businesses. There are too many horror stories of major companies getting hit by hackers that cost them millions in damage control and reputation repair. But managed IT service providers aren’t just about protecting your company from external threats – they also play a vital role in maintaining day-to-day operations.
In the research phase of looking for the right IT provider, there are five areas you should ensure they’ll be covering.
1. Cybersecurity
Your managed IT provider should have a comprehensive plan in place to protect your network and data from malicious attacks. If necessary, ask to look it over. The best providers know transparency is key to a successful cyber secure business. This includes the following:
- Regular security updates
- Managed firewalls
- Employee education on best practices
Statista reports that during the second quarter of 2022, online users around the world saw roughly 52 million data breaches. The responsibility of adequate cybersecurity is of too great importance to leave up to just any IT company.
2. Backup and Disaster Recovery
In the event of a natural disaster or other interruption, having a solid backup and disaster recovery plan in place is vital for keeping your business running. Your managed IT provider should have a plan in place for both offsite backups and disaster recovery to minimize downtime and ensure your data remains safe.
Without this, you’ll be facing costly repercussions and lost productivity.
3. Cloud Services
The use of cloud services has become essential in today’s business world, but it can also be confusing to navigate. Your managed IT provider should not only know how to use it, but how to install and maintain it.
They should also be able to advise on the best cloud solution for your specific business needs, including security measures and integrations with your current systems.
4. Network Monitoring
Your managed IT provider should constantly monitor your network for potential threats or issues, often using a remote monitoring and management tool. This includes keeping track of hardware and software, as well as regularly running diagnostic tests to ensure everything is functioning properly.
It’s not possible to monitor everything around the clock, especially while you’re sleeping. This is a service that should be taken care of so you can rest easy knowing cyber threats are continuously being detected and prevented from occurring.
5. Transparency and Support
There’s nothing worse than being left in the dark – especially within your own business. Your IT provider should prioritize communication and support. This means not only regular reporting but also being available whenever you have a question or issue. And they shouldn’t just be focused on problem-solving – they should also proactively provide recommendations for improving your system’s efficiency and security.
Partner with K2 Tech Group for Reliable Managed IT Support
Here at K2 Tech Group, we not only value and strive to implement all of these services, we also believe in cost-effective IT support so that you have the flexibility you need to grow your business. Get started with K2 Tech Group today to ensure your managed IT services are top-notch.
