Difference & Benefits Managed IT Services Provider vs. Cloud Service Provider
Managed IT Services

Difference & Benefits: Managed IT Services Provider vs. Cloud Service Provider

Written by Layer One Networks Published

The IT industry is snowballing, and we are in the midst of a digital transformation. Many businesses must keep up with the latest technology trends to stay competitive in this ever-changing marketplace.

But many don’t have in-house IT staff to care for their network and other IT infrastructure needs and this is when they rely on outside help.

It can lead to confusion over what company you should use for your business — cloud solutions or managed IT services provider? Of course, both offer similar services, but there are some critical differences between them that you should consider before making a decision.

So in this blog, we’ll guide you through the services offered by both types of providers and choose the best one for you.

What is a Managed IT Service Provider (MSP)?

cloud service provider

A managed IT services provider (MSP) is an IT services company that provides technical services to its clients. These services can range from cloud hosting to cybersecurity and include data backup, security monitoring, and maintenance of networks. 

So, what’s the real value of IT managed service?

Well, the main advantage of outsourcing your IT needs to an MSP is that they deal with all the technical aspects of your business, so you don’t have to worry about them.

MSPs can provide both hardware and software solutions and offer these services on a subscription-based or pay-as-you-go basis. They support your network, servers, computers, and any other hardware devices in your business. In addition, the MSPs have the infrastructure to provide these services, which include managing data backups, security patches, monitoring, and maintenance.

What Can You Expect from a Managed Service Provider?

Many managed service providers focus on specific verticals while others provide a broad range of services across industries. Some common types of managed services include:

Network Diagnostics & Monitoring

Network diagnostics and monitoring ensure that networks are working properly and quickly alert them when there’s a problem with any aspect of their network connectivity. It’s also used to detect unauthorized access attempts or virus infections on your network and stop them before they cause harm.

Cybersecurity

Managed IT services providers can help with all aspects of cybersecurity, including incident response, risk management, compliance, and audit readiness. MSPs can offer cloud security platforms that provide enterprise-grade protection from cyber threats, malware, and ransomware attacks. The platforms also work to prevent data loss, ensure compliance, and much more.

24X7 User Support

There are various managed IT services you can avail of. While some handpick a few benefits, the best MSPs can provide a comprehensive solution that can typically replace an entire IT department.

And this is when the 24X7 support solutions come in. You’ll get round-the-clock access to the help desk to answer questions and extend support for any issue in your IT infrastructure. They can also troubleshoot issues with the network or computer systems instantly and help resume your work.

System Administration

Many MSPs take complete charge of your IT networks and server and run it as an in-house team does. They provide end-to-end solutions with admin access to client computers to troubleshoot problems or offer system upgrades. These solutions also include additional features such as network security monitoring, creating new modules, applications, and software, enabling integrations between multiple applications, and managing the day-to-day operational workloads. 

Maintenance of IT Infrastructure

Managed IT services providers offer regular maintenance plans for different types of hardware and software. They also provide ongoing support for your IT infrastructure to remain operational without downtime or disruption in business operations due to technical issues or outages caused by malware attacks, viruses, or other malicious attempts.

What is a Cloud Service Provider?

cloud service provider

Cloud Service Provider (CSP) is a company that provides cloud computing solutions. CSPs are IT service providers specializing in cloud solutions for their clients. They offer their clients different types of cloud products and services, including storage, data backup, disaster recovery, and other related services.

Many small businesses don’t have the resources or expertise to manage their IT infrastructure. They may have a limited budget, meaning they can’t afford the cost of hiring an in-house IT team. It is where IT consulting firms come into the picture with managed cloud solutions.

So this is when CSPs help companies manage their IT infrastructure by providing them with access to various software applications and hardware devices. These companies can then use these tools to perform multiple tasks related to their business operations. Through a multi-tenant model, the CSP consolidates and assigns computing resources based on the needs of multiple clients. 

Managed cloud services providers are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the hardware and software that comprise the cloud computing environment. They also provide users access to these resources through their data centers or third-party data centers.

What are the Different Types of Cloud Service Provider?

  • Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

SaaS is a type of cloud computing where applications are hosted remotely and accessed via the Internet. You can use this solution on a pay-per-use basis. SaaS providers use virtualization technology to enable users to access their applications from any device with an Internet connection. Some examples of SaaS include Salesforce, Google Apps, Office 365, and Concur.

  • Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)

PaaS is another cloud computing model that allows customers to build their software applications on top of an existing platform. In this model, there are no restrictions on what can be done with these platforms while users are using them. Examples include Windows Azure, OpenShift, and AWS Elastic Beanstalk.

  • Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)

IaaS allows customers to rent virtual server space from a provider and manage it themselves. It is a service where the provider offers the client virtual machines, storage, and networking resources. Examples include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Compute Engine.

What Can You Expect from a Cloud Service Provider?

Cloud computing is a type of computing that provides shared resources, software, and information to computers and other devices on demand. With this model, users can access a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) on demand, with minimal effort or interaction from global cloud computing service providers.

  • Cloud Computing Services

The cloud service provider helps to store your data on the servers or share it with other users across the globe. It’s a cost-effective way to access software applications and hardware infrastructure as a service, including storage, networks, software, virtualization, and more. 

  • Remote Data Backup Services

A data backup is essential for businesses that require continuity of services in case of emergencies like natural calamities or technical glitches. Cloud providers offer remote data backup solutions that allow you to store critical files and folders online so that you can access them from anywhere at any time.

  • Cloud Storage Services

Cloud storage refers to storing data remotely instead of on your computer hard drive or local server. Businesses use cloud storage services to store their critical files in an offsite location where they can be accessed anytime from anywhere without additional effort.

  • Cloud Computing Consulting Services

Many small businesses don’t have enough technical knowledge about cloud computing. This is when the consulting sessions can help navigate the world of cloud computing, integrate it with the existing IT infrastructure, and facilitate smooth migration.

  • Cloud Management Services

Cloud-managed service providers help with various aspects of cloud management — like setting up new spaces, creating templates, and integrations, and conducting regular security and maintenance. Such providers will ensure you don’t have to worry about backend operations and cloud management.

Similarities and Benefits of MSP and CSP

cloud service provider

A managed IT services provider is a company that offers support for the IT infrastructure of your business on an ongoing basis. It may include hardware, software, and networking equipment, as well as repairs if something breaks down. Cloud service providers offer similar services but also provide access to technology that can be stored in servers at their location or accessed remotely by a user.

The primary benefit of using an MSP is that it can provide various services, including support, maintenance, and upgrades. Many providers also take care of security measures, including network monitoring and antivirus software updates. They will help you choose what kind of hardware you need for your business based on your needs and budget requirements.

CSPs work with multiple companies at once so they can offer different types of services to different clients. For example, they may offer storage space, email accounts, management tools, or online databases. Cloud computing has broad capabilities and is accessible through standard mechanisms that promote use by heterogeneous client platforms.

Differences Between Managed IT Service Providers vs. Cloud Service Provider

Cloud Computing Services Providers - Layer One Networks

Managed IT services providers and cloud service providers are two different types of companies that offer similar services. While both provide IT support, they differ in how they provide it, what they offer and how much it costs. The following are major differences between these two types of service providers:

The Way They Provide the Service

Managed IT services providers offer more than just a few hours of help from an onsite technician. They offer a full range of services, including management, maintenance, and computer systems monitoring. They also provide remote support and assistance for your company’s employees.

Cloud service providers typically only offer their services through a cloud-based platform. You don’t need to hire staff or buy equipment — you simply subscribe to their service and pay them a monthly fee to use their software or hardware.

The Services Offered

Managed IT services providers usually offer more extensive services than cloud providers. Still, there is some overlap between the two companies offerings due to competition in this tech industry sector. 

For example, both service providers may offer backup storage space for your data if you have multiple computers that need backing up regularly throughout the week or month. However, global cloud service providers are restricted to your infrastructure’s cloud section and can’t extend the services to your on-premise storage. On the other hand, a managed IT services provider takes complete charge of your IT infrastructure. Also, a fully managed IT service provider is directly linked with your business needs, whereas CSPs can be linked to any type of business needs through their network infrastructure.

The Flexibility of the Services

Another difference between managed IT services providers and cloud service providers is that MSPs are more flexible than CSPs.  is because MSPs provide you with all types of flexibility regarding software upgrade and maintenance services at an affordable price — custom-made to fit your needs, infrastructure and budget. But CSPs are not as flexible as they provide a set of solutions to choose from.

How Can You Choose the Best IT Service Provider for Your Business?

The challenge you face when choosing between these two types of service providers is that they have similar names, but there are important fundamental differences between them. What’s more, most businesses will need both types of services at different times during their lifecycle, so it’s essential to understand how each one works and what they can offer you.

The choice between MSPs and CSPs is entirely dependent on the type of infrastructure you have as well as the capability of your in-house IT team.

For example, if you have a hybrid cloud with on-premise storage, then you’ll need the services of both MSPs and CSPs. Many MSPs provide cloud maintenance support, so you can choose such an extensive option from a single vendor who can manage it all.

On the other hand, if you have only on-premise storage and need additional security and disaster management support, then you can work with an MSP for those additional needs.

If you’re unsure about choosing between both, reach out to our experts offering managed IT services in Corpus Christi. We can help you make the right choice and handpick the required services to maintain a robust IT infrastructure.

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12 Powerful Business Benefits of VoIP: Key Tips
VoIP

12 Powerful Business Benefits of VoIP: Key Tips

Written by Layer One Networks Published

Faster calls, uninterrupted connection, and affordable rates.

These are some of the common reasons why many businesses are shifting to VoIP.

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services allows users to make and receive calls over the internet. In times when the internet is the strongest asset for any business, VoIP calls are a welcome addition for marketing and sales.

From small businesses and startups to multinational organizations, VoIP is replacing the traditional phone systems. You can get a VoIP connection from your internet and cloud service providers. 

Want to know why you should make a move to VoIP? Let’s give you some compelling reasons.

12 Reasons Why You Need VoIP

We, at Layer One Networks, are one of the top internet providers working with various businesses in Corpus Christi. With our managed cloud services and internet services, we have witnessed firsthand the benefits that VoIP has brought to our clients. 

In this blog, we’ll look at some of the crucial reasons why you need to shift to VoIP.

  • 1. Low Cost Per Call Rate

Since VoIP uses the internet to make calls, all the communication is converted to packets of data sent over the IP network. So, you only have to pay rates that are just a fraction of the cost of making calls through telephones. 

In fact, you can even make domestic and international calls for free over the VoIP network. You don’t have to cut short your calls because you pay by the minutes. You can speak for how much ever long you need without worrying about your telephone bill rates going up.

  • 2. Conduct Business On-the-Go

Unlike traditional telephones, you aren’t tied to a single location to make calls.

You can conduct your business on the go wherever you are with just your mobile phone and an internet connection. This is especially useful for employees collaborating with each other as well as salespeople talking with clients and prospects.

  • 3. No-Fuss Installation

You don’t need to have any tech knowledge to install the basic equipment for VoIP. You just plug a few devices into the socket and switch it on to set up the internet connection or the IP phones.

You can then connect your mobiles with the network and start making VoIP calls! It’s that easy!

  • 4. Simplify Conference Calls

The concept of conference calls over VoIP was one of the mega advantages.

While you can still make conference calls with normal phone lines, you will have to pay the additional cost to your provider for that. With a VoIP network, you can make conference calls easily without any cost additions.

  • 5. Make Video Calls

The chance to speak through videos over VoIP was the biggest welcome change that helped many businesses.

You can make video calls with your employees, clients, and stakeholders irrespective of where they are. And the best part is that you don’t need to pay a boatload of money for it!

Just like how you make normal phone calls, you can make video calls over the internet too.

12 Powerful Business Benefits of VoIP: Key Tips

  • 6. Management of Call Features

Let’s suppose that you have a company phone number. You may get multiple calls. You can redirect the call in waiting to another number or place it in the queue or send messages to them.

VoIP calls have so many features to manage your calls efficiently and make sure that you don’t miss anyone’s call.

  • 7. High Quality of Calls

You know those times when your telephone lines get disturbed due to some local work. You don’t have to face such issues with VoIP.

With a good internet connection, which you can find anywhere in Corpus Christi, and good internet providers, you can speak as clearly as you are speaking in person.

  • 8. Highly Secure Communication

The modern VoIP network has high encryption protocols that ensure the security of the calls you make. Compared to the analog calls that were previously used by many, these have better security features to avoid any leaking.

If you want to extend this security to your IT systems, you can contact our experts providing security service in Corpus Christi.

  • 9. Connect Over Any Network

You can use any network to connect and make VoIP calls. It can be ethernet, WiFi, ATM, or SONET. 

You aren’t limited to the scope of the network or any technology when you use VoIP to make calls. You can use any set of equipment and network and eliminate the need for any traditional phone lines.

  • 10. Add Automated Answers

During the off-hours and holidays, your customers or prospects might call you. You don’t want to lose those people, right?

So, instead, you can leave automated messages that include questions that are frequently asked along with any announcements. This way, you can also find out who called you during those times and give them a callback or get their issues resolved without speaking to anybody!

  • 11. Record Customer Calls

Most businesses have the habit of recording customer calls to analyze and find out how much better they can improve their service.

With VoIP automatic call recording, you can record all incoming and outgoing calls from your customer service number. You can also include systems to upload the call to the cloud with the help of your cloud service providers.

  • 12. Make Calls Worldwide

If you’re working with people outside your country or have clients across borders, you can make and receive calls without any additional costs. 

This is one of the main advantages of using VoIP for making overseas calls to connect offices and homes from abroad and speak to them with high clarity.

Read More: How Does a VoIP Work?

Wrapping Up

VoIP can significantly reduce the cost of your operations and simplify the way you conduct business. 

When you’re shifting to VoIP systems, you may be spoilt for choices. This is when our IT support and services can be of immense help to guide you and help you set up the network to facilitate making the VoIP calls. Contact us to get more information on how we can help you.

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Cloud Managed Services
Cloud Services

10 Benefits of Cloud Managed Service Providers

Written by Layer One Networks Published

Have you ever felt that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to manage your cloud services?

The chances are your multifunctional, internal team handling cloud management as one of the tasks may feel overwhelmed and may have dropped the wheel a few times. Or you have many missed out on some software updates that lead to lots of unproductive hours. 

We could go on and on about the drawbacks of managing the cloud all by yourself.

Now, let’s imagine a scenario when you have a well-experienced and adept team working solely on the cloud management of your business. How wonderful and efficient it would be!

In this blog, we’ll see in detail why you need to have cloud managed service providers.

10 Reasons Why You Need Managed Cloud Services

Many well-known companies are moving to cloud computing services due to the host of advantages it has. At LayerOne Networks, we have provided cloud management and security service for companies in and around Corpus Christi. We’ve seen both sides of it – with and without cloud service providers. Here’s why we recommend businesses to make use of managed cloud services:

  • 1. Flexible Cost Packages  

If we know from experience, most companies do not go to an external IT support and services provider due to tight budgets. But with cloud-managed services, you only need to pay for what you’re using. And therefore, it’s going to cost you very less compared to the in-house IT support and maintenance you have.

  • 2. No Infrastructure Costs

Can you imagine how much it’s going to cost to spend on the hardware infrastructure of a storage system? And add to it the cost of maintenance, hardware upgrades, and attending failures.

You can replace all of that with cloud services in which you can totally do away with the infrastructure costs. None of the hardware burden and all benefits of the cloud will make your business operations smooth.

Cloud Storage Services

  • 3. A Centralized Network

When your information and operations are distributed here and there, it’s hard for them to work and collaborate. Instead, when you bring everything together on a cloud with a centralized network, you can save up loads of time spent searching, filing and managing the information.

  • 4. Secure Storage

Network security is one of the top essentials for any business of any type and scale. 

When you store your information in a reliable cloud platform, you can depend on them for the immense security features they have. The top cloud service providers will have multiple firewalls, VPNs, and antivirus protection to keep all of your information safe. The best part is that you don’t have to worry about that at all!

  • 5. Automatic Software Upgrades

If you’re tired of manually remembering and upgrading all of your software, then this cloud service will make your job better.

Since the cloud service provider charges include updates and maintenance, you can always rely on your software updated as and when the updates roll out.

  • 6. Scalable on Demand

One major difficulty when you’re managing your own infrastructure is the plan for scalability. When your business has an immediate and unforeseen need to increase storage, it becomes really hard.

With cloud platforms, you don’t ever have to plan for scalability. You can scale up or down as much as you wish and only pay for the space you have utilized.

  • 7. Future-Proof Technology

The landscape of IT is fast-changing. New technologies are coming up left and right to improve business operations and customer satisfaction.

At such times, migrating a cloud service is the first person to prepare yourself for what’s to come. With any improvements in storage solutions, the cloud will be at the top of it and you’ll gain access to all the cloud tech benefits. This could prove to be major leverage among your competition and position your business at the top of your industry.

  • 8. Seamless Disaster Management

We don’t want the uneventful to happen. But we need to be prepared for it. Creating a managed backup and disaster recovery system is essential for any business.

When you have a cloud service partner, the work becomes so much easier. When you have a backup on the cloud, you can continue working like nothing happened as the recovery team plans and orchestrates the restoration of the main system.

With automatic failover systems and regular backups, your usual operations won’t be affected, even in face of a disaster!

  • 9. Quick Response Time

With on-premise storage systems, there’s one constant problem when the occupied space is more – slow loading time.

This can frustrate your employees, lose valuable time, and put a deter on the operations. Since cloud systems have huge space, you can experience a much faster response time with data access, maintenance, upgrades, and other management functions.

  • 10. Holistic Services

Cloud service providers offer multiple services all of which is aimed to improve your IT operations and management. From maintenance to automatic backups and upgrades, you don’t have to worry about the technical IT side of your business.

As you work longer with such partners, they become better accustomed to your operations and systems and can function as an extended part of your in-house team and keep the cloud systems healthy and ready.

Conclusion

From efficiency, security, and flexibility, cloud services have covered you on all sides. As we progress in the year 2021 where remote culture is becoming a norm, having a cloud-centric business is more meaningful and useful.

If you’re looking for a good cloud service provider, then our cloud experts will be a right fit for you. We are the top internet providers and cloud service providers in Corpus Christi and can create a customized plan for your cloud services. Book a consultation session now to know more.

 

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