A managed service provider, or MSP, accepts a considerable amount of responsibility when working with a small business. Small businesses are not immune to cyberattacks or information breaches. In fact, because so many small businesses tend to be under prepared for such occasions, the ramifications can be far worse. Data security is a major issues for all companies, and the right MSP in Orlando, FL, can make all the difference.
1. Infrastructure
The transition to cloud-based infrastructure has shown no sign of slowing down. If anything, cloud computing is becoming ubiquitous both in people’s personal lives and in the business world. Companies enjoy the adaptability, flexibility, and mobility of cloud computing, especially since global commerce has become the law of the land. Being able to accommodate personnel and customers or clients across different time zones and continents is a huge advantage. Of course, you always have the option to use cloud-based solutions, on-premise, or a hybrid of both. It’s determined by your needs and what you find most comfortable.
2. Users
User management is crucial. As a business, your employees are your primary users. Maintaining desktops and laptops is one of the most common and critical chores or every IT department. The same is true for your MSP. Luckily, most providers are able to help with this remotely, so you don’t have to bring in your machines. Instead, virtual desktops are used. These are easier to maintain and the turnaround tends to be significantly faster. Of course, upkeep also extends to appropriate applications and software that are needed for productivity. Your MSP should also assist with onboarding workers and offer hands-on help or full-time assistance whenever possible.
3. Network
Business networks can become complicated very quickly. With commercial networks, you have to understand routers, switches, firewalls, and much more. Cloud-base infrastructure doesn’t eliminate the fact that you still have to connect the office with access points. This is true for both data and voice services as well. Network management can’t be ignored, even in a wireless world. In fact, wireless offices have their own unique challenges in terms of both user access, remote access, and information security. Your MSP should be able to design, install, and actively monitor your network 24/7. Fortunately, having a full-time in-house IT team isn’t necessary.
4. Security
Yes, a firewall is needed, but it’s never enough. You can’t just cross your fingers and hope everything is good until the next scheduled checkup. Your MSP needs to maintain ongoing management of your security policies and conduct security audits. They should also scan for vulnerabilities and provide intrusion detection. Hackers and other bad actors work globally. There’s no hour of the day that’s truly safe. Therefore, your security can never stop either.
5. Business
Disaster recovery and business continuity go hand-in-hand. Much of business today is conducted online. Modern disasters are more likely due to power loss, a failed server or a cyberattack than a hurricane or a fire. While natural disasters are certainly possible, you often have a warning and can plan around them. A sudden power failure or server crash are different occasions. Being offline can cost you dearly, so data backup has to be accompanied with other safeguards. An experienced MSP team should be able to detect an outage and failover in a matter of mere minutes. Meanwhile, your staff continues working and your customers keep going without issue.
With IT help for my business in Orlando, FL, you have few concerns and plenty of support. Contact Millennium Technology Group at 407-996-2399 if you’d like to learn more.