You’ve most likely heard the terms “managed IT services” and “cloud services” thrown around, but have you ever taken the time to look into what they mean and really consider them for your business?
If not, then now is the time, because they can really advance the way your company’s operating systems run. Having sufficient technical support in place ensures that you can focus on what really matters: running your business.
What is a managed IT service?
In a sense, managed IT services are when you work alongside an IT consulting firm to monitor your business’s technology needs. Having a consulting service in place is far more efficient than billing an IT firm by the hour as they take more of an investment in your company – they’ve officially taken responsibility for the way your systems run.
An IT provider, such as M&H Consulting, can help with the long-term strategic planning of your business’s processes. From upgrades, backups, and disaster planning to preparations for an expansion.
With this option, all services are provided through your local server.
What is a cloud service?
Cloud computing services are most likely something you’ve already used without knowing it. Examples of cloud-based services include Adobe Creative Drive Cloud, Microsoft Azure, Google Drive, and even Netflix!
Using cloud storage gives you access to on-demand computer system resources, which is something you can’t do when running from a local server. It’s ideal for companies that have employees in different locations.
There are two main types of cloud services: IaaS/DaaS (“Infrastructure/Desktop as a Service”) and SaaS/STaaS (“Software/Storage as a Service”). IaaS typically replaces the user’s entire working environment, for example, hosted desktops and servers. SaaS and STaaS, on the other hand, usually replace a program or data storage that was locally hosted, such as Google Docs and Microsoft Office 365.
What is the difference between cloud and desktop management?
By now, you’ve most likely worked out the key difference between cloud and computing services: one is local and the other is online.
Neither is better than the other; it all depends on the type of business you run and its individual needs. If you’re a startup company working from shared office spaces, the cloud would be perfect for you. However, if you run a restaurant, managed IT services are typically more suited to your needs.
The world we live in is definitely heading in more of a “cloud direction”, but there is still plenty of room for local computing.
M&H Consulting’s services
The M&H Consulting Team is available to clients around the clock. We offer pre-scheduled support and emergency support during regular business hours as well as extended support during the evening and weekend via an on-call technician.
Another option we provide is transitioning from one service to another. So, with M&H, the world is your oyster!
If you’re unsure whether your business would be best with IT services or cloud services, get in touch with the team at M&H Consulting.
Categorised in: Cloud Services, Computer Support, IT Consulting Services