What managed services is NOT: 5 Myths about managed services debunked

November 23rd, 2021
What managed services is NOT: 5 Myths about managed services debunked

A managed IT services provider (MSP) is a third-party company that remotely manages another business’s IT infrastructure and systems. Small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), in particular, can greatly benefit from MSPs, as the latter can provide them with the equivalent of an in-house IT department for a fraction of the cost.

But while MSPs have been around for decades, some business owners are still hesitant to partner with one. This can be largely attributed to the widespread misinformation about what MSPs do. Before you make the decision to sign or not sign up with an MSP, it’s wise to know the truth behind the most common myths about managed services.

Myth 1: MSPs make data unsecure

Cybersecurity is one of the top reasons why businesses hire MSPs. MSPs are expected to implement cybersecurity measures to ensure data protection, and clients pay them in return for keeping their systems safe. It is therefore in an MSP’s best interest to protect their clients’ data; if they fail to do so, they can lose their customers.

It’s baseless to say that an MSP, whose job is to ensure the security and efficiency of IT systems, actually poses a danger to data and somehow makes it more vulnerable despite the measures implemented. In truth, what makes data unsecure is not having a multilayered protection against cyberattacks.

Myth 2: MSPs are expensive

Instead of being perceived as an additional expense, MSPs should be considered nonnegotiable in running a business. Without an MSP to watch over your systems, your business risks losing up to $4.4 million, which is the average cost of a data breach in 2021. This is far more expensive than paying for the services of an MSP, usually billed monthly and at a fixed rate. In fact, studies have consistently shown that hiring an MSP is more cost-effective in the long run, as it can considerably reduce operational savings by streamlining processes and improving productivity.

Myth 3: MSPs make businesses lose control over their data

The opposite is actually true: an MSP efficiently manages your data so you can have better control over it. For instance, because an MSP monitors your systems, you gain better transparency on your data, such as who accessed which files and for what purpose. This can be helpful in getting down to the root of an IT problem or mitigating a data breach.

If you feel like you’re losing ownership of your data, you just haven’t found the right MSP yet. The best MSPs will sit down with you and discuss which parts of your operation you would like to outsource. They will also set clear expectations and a strong service agreement, as well as allow you to define your ideal level of data control.

Myth 4: Only big corporations need MSPs

Large companies do work with MSPs, but that doesn’t mean smaller businesses won’t gain substantial benefits from partnering with one. For instance, SMBs that don’t have an internal IT team would save a lot on costs if they have an MSP on their side. This is because it takes less time and money to outsource one’s IT department than to recruit and train IT specialists that come with a hefty price tag but are notorious for their high turnover rate.

It also makes sense for some smaller companies that already have an IT team to have another company help them with day-to-day tasks so their internal team won’t be overwhelmed. By outsourcing the technical, non-strategic aspects of their IT, these companies get to free up their internal IT’s valuable time so they can focus on tasks that push company growth.

Myth 5: MSPs offer the same services to everyone

Since business organizations often have the same IT problems, MSPs are able to standardize their service offerings to address these common concerns. However, MSPs will usually have several tiers with varying levels of support and services, enabling clients to choose which plan is best for them based on their needs and budget.

What’s more, the most reliable MSPs are not content with simply offering a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, they are open to tweaking the standard package so you can have a suite of services that address your specific needs. At HERO Managed Services, our experts are happy to tailor IT solutions aligned with your unique business goals.

Not all MSPs are built the same. Discover why we’ve been a trusted MSP in Clearwater and the Tampa area for over 20 years. Contact us today.


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