If you’ve ever wondered if there’s a difference between managed IT services and cloud computing, you’re not alone. These services are similar, and many people get confused when trying to determine which to purchase.
Understanding the key differences between these two services can help you accomplish your business goals. Here’s more information to help you determine which is right for your organization.
Cloud computing- what is it?
You probably already use cloud-based services, even if you don’t realize it. In the simplest terms, cloud computing is the network of servers that is hosted on the internet to manage and process data.
Storage, databases, software, and analytics are stored and processed over the internet in a vast “cloud” of networking and processing power that gives you access to all the information and data without a local server or storage on your personal computer.
You probably already use cloud computing if you use an online service provider to send your emails, stream movies and music, store pictures, or edit documents.
Cloud service providers
Companies offering cloud-based services, or “cloud providers,” will usually charge a fee based on data usage, similar to your smartphone contract. These companies maintain information and services on their cloud infrastructure.
There are benefits to moving your business operations to the cloud. You can save time and money by not managing your own in-house servers and framework.
Going with a cloud service provider for your business can also increase your efficiency. Your team can collaborate remotely, with all of your software and devices syncing automatically. Because cloud computing gives you access to your data via the internet, your employees can have access to their programs and information wherever WIFI is available.
Managed IT Service – what is it?
Managed IT Service providers manage and maintain your IT services and functions. They take care of issues that are often done in-house, such as security operations, encryption, infrastructure development, and any other IT functions.
You will still get all the benefits of cloud computing with a managed IT service provider. They can assist you with migrating your business to the cloud, and maintain your cloud ecosystem once it’s onboard.
You will also have the benefit of 24/7 security monitoring and business IT support. With a managed service provider, you can outsource your IT challenges so that you can focus on your business.
Which is right for you?
The key difference between a cloud service provider and a managed IT service lies in the scope of the service offered. Both services enable your business to migrate to the cloud, update all of your information in real-time, and sync seamlessly with your team.
That’s as far as it goes with cloud service providers. They move your data and processes to the cloud and maintain their servers so that you don’t have to.
But, just because your IT resources are on the cloud, that doesn’t mean that the cloud service provider will help you manage any IT issues you may have. A managed service provider will help you with the entire scope of your IT needs – things like maintaining your hardware, software patches, operations procedures, and security.
What’s right for your company depends on your technical needs and budget. Cloud service providers are less expensive than managed IT services, and they can be a great way to get your company access to high-end computing that you wouldn’t be able to create on your own in-house system.
But, they offer a less robust IT service. You will still have to manage your day-to-day IT operations. For many companies, this can be burdensome. Creating an internal IT network and managing an IT department may be more expensive and time intensive than outsourcing to a managed service provider. It all comes down to the level of control you want for your IT processes.
Cloud service providers and managed IT service providers offer ways for your business to operate more efficiently, communicate seamlessly with your team, and get support for your IT needs.
Our Managed Services offering provides you with fully redundant systems that are also highly compliant and incredibly secure — guaranteeing that your performance will be top-notch. If you’re ready to learn more about the flexibility of the fully-managed CloudHesive services and guaranteed service levels, contact us today at (800) 860-2040 or email [email protected] for your free initial review.
