How to Find the Right IT Managed Service Provider

It's safe to say the world of work has changed considerably in the last few years, and the IT industry is no exception. Technology is used all day, every day, so it’s paramount you find the right MSP for your business. But, where to begin?

There are many IT service providers out there offering good IT solutions, but in our modern technological world, you need an MSP who will go above and beyond in the expertise they provide. We've taken it upon ourselves to outline some key aspects to consider when looking for a stand-out MSP who is perfect for you.

Cloud Services: Keeping in Touch

Since the world adopted the hybrid-working model, partnering with an MSP equipped to manage this new business environment is crucial. This should be an MSP who is fully proficient in the latest Cloud technologies and remote services. Partnering with a Cloud-proficient MSP, with expertise in solutions such as Microsoft 365, Azure and Modern Workplace, ensures your operations will remain effective, even when working remotely. By optimising your business' Cloud solutions, your MSP should guarantee your team can work efficiently from anywhere, at any time. This grants greater flexibility and agility, allowing you to propel your business to new heights.

Remote Monitoring Services: Management from Afar

A great MSP should supply 24/7/365 proactive monitoring and alerting for servers, workstations and network devices that enable problems to be fixed with ease and efficiency. As the traditional break-fix model becomes increasingly outdated, the latest RMM solutions are growing in popularity – allowing issues to be dealt with quickly and efficiently from afar. Even when physically estranged, your MSP should always be on hand with pro-active monitoring and technical support, providing a complete mastery of your IT services.

For instance, at Netitude, we not only offer a 24/7/365 Security Operations Centre (SOC) as part of all our managed service packages but take things a step further by providing Security Information and Event Management (SIEM).

Cyber Crime: Security is Key

As cybercrime is on the rise, it’s essential your cybersecurity is watertight. When neglected, you could face devastating consequences, leak by leak. In 2022 alone, 39% of UK businesses identified a cyberattack - outlining the severity of the threat.

In the current cyber-security environment, all MSPs will offer you good services, but you need more than just ‘good’. You need comprehensive threat protection. This includes anti-spam and anti-malware protection from a trusted security team who will help you become Cyber Essentials Plus certified.

This ensures:

• Complete security of your devices, software and internet 
• Secure access to your data and services 
• Your devices and software are kept up to date 
• Protection from viruses and other malware 

A key aspect to finding a good MSP is understanding their attitude to security – as MSPs are often a target for cybercriminals. At Netitude, we use all the tools found in our Managed Cybersecurity packages (and more) to secure ourselves and in turn, protect our clients. We’ll complete quarterly IT and security audits, enabling us to develop a comprehensive understanding of your cyber security posture. By assessing the health of your infrastructure and the effectiveness of your defences, we’ll suggest improvements and provide you the best security your business needs. We never underestimate the importance of cyber-security: security is key.

Virtual IT Director: A Guiding Hand

All MSPs claim to provide expert IT assistance, but you need to partner with one who is actively striving to improve how you use your technology. Your MSP should have a designated Virtual IT Director (vITD) providing strategic guidance & forward planning. This allows you to have one single point of contact where all your IT services are regulated. Whether it’s strategic guidance down the phone, quarterly business and strategic review meetings or technology budget planning & technology procurement, your vITD is dedicated to managing your account and helping your business grow.

Actively working with you to facilitate growth, efficiency and security, the guidance from a vITD enables the opportunity to design a forward-thinking IT framework which encourages your business to grow with confidence.

At Netitude, we’re equipped with the IT solutions needed to support your business and will deliver the services you require with confidence and expertise. We pride ourselves in our recognised excellence, which helps businesses like yours to grow.

Get in touch today to talk to one of our experts.