Managed IT Support vs Technical Support

by

17 December 2019

Technology

IT support

Whatever the business and industry, there’s no doubt IT support is the key element ensuring proper operations. It partially makes for the success of a company. With a countless number of IT support providers, it may be quite a hassle to decide on the format of such services. Should you choose managed or technical support?

The fundamental difference lies in the way things are handled. That is why businesses ought to evaluate their needs and requirements so that they can decide on the form of IT support. Today, we’ll discuss what managed and technical services are.

The Core of Managed IT Support

Managed IT support is a relatively new concept. Its proactive nature provides numerous benefits for a company. Even though it’s usually aimed at bigger enterprises, the trend of opting for managed services is increasingly growing in small businesses as well.

The core of this format is constant, 24/7 access to an IT team. In case an issue occurs, companies don’t even need to inform their managed services provider as thanks to the advanced technological infrastructure an error is already being handled. This way businesses can put their efforts into day-to-day tasks while a team of IT specialists is dealing with an issue. The result? Smooth operations as if nothing had happened.

Technical Support in a Nutshell

Technical support is a more traditional way of handling a company’s issues. If you don’t happen to have an IT department or an in-house IT team, you might find this option fit. Clients usually purchase pre-paid hours on a monthly/quarterly or even yearly basis and in case an issue occurs, they can use their provider’s manpower to fix the problem.

Having access to a team of IT experts can be highly beneficial in terms of running a business in a trouble-free manner especially when a company runs into a bigger project and faces difficulties juggling their efforts. Technical support comes in handy, allowing such a company to put its focus on the important matters while professionals are handling the issue.

Managed Services or Blocked Hours – Which is Better?

Whether a company should opt for managed services or blocked hours is very individual. Firewall Technical suggests evaluating the needs, profile, and requirements in order to make a smart decision. While managed support is a perfect and highly-efficient option for medium-sized and large enterprises, small businesses can find it fit too.

The biggest difference here lies both in the cost and effort. Managed services is a more pricey form of IT support but it generally pays off in the long-run. Technical support, while being a cheaper option, does not give companies full 24/7 access to a team of IT experts. The contract is based on a specific amount of blocked hours that can be used within a certain period of time.

That is why a thorough analysis should be done beforehand. However, if you own a digital company no matter the size, you would probably find managed services to be the more efficient option.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Listing pros and cons is always a good idea in order to estimate the best solution for your company. There’s a lot to consider in terms of budget, time, and effort. So what are the biggest advantages and disadvantages of managed services and technical support?

Managed IT Support

A growing number of companies are going for this type of IT support. No wonder, all the issues are handled right after they occur, or long before they even get the chance to. This is one of the biggest advantages of managed services, and that is why it makes a perfect fit for those whose operations rely heavily on IT systems.

Your company’s efficiency will most likely boost thanks to outsourcing it. Increased focus on development and innovation gives businesses additional asset – competitiveness. Experts at Miropoint emphasize that it’s not only about fixing issues and updating software but most importantly about preventing errors from happening in the first place.

Another very prominent pro of managed services is the level of security, which is crucial if you’re running a business that stores clients’ sensitive data. Cybercriminals like to hunt such companies down and this could cost you money, trust, and reputation.

When talking about the biggest cons of managed support, businesses usually mention the cost. It scares most small companies off since they simply can’t afford it. Well, that’s what they think. They seem to be forgetting about the long-term effects when managed support is a highly cost-efficient solution and does pay off.

Technical Support

IT support prevents your technological infrastructure from any malfunction but not 24/7. In fact, you can use the help of experienced IT professionals any time you need as long as you purchased enough blocked hours to fix your issue. Again, you can also have them improve your old systems so that they’re more compatible with new software. This solution, therefore, could be beneficial for companies that don’t rely on IT infrastructure entirely.

Another advantage is that you’re not bound by any contract. You pay for what you need. No overhead expenses, no flat monthly fee. Such providers are usually quite flexible when it comes to purchased hours so you don’t have to block the same number as the previous month for instance.

There are some drawbacks too. Even though technical support experts have access to state-of-the-art technology, they don’t monitor your systems 24/7, which can cause slight delays before the issue has been recognized. It is also said that sharing information with a third-party could be risky, however, the policy doesn’t allow them to use any information.

Conclusion

The true winner is hard to determine. For some managed services is the top option that provides continuous monitoring, updates, improvement, and security. It is quite costly, which may scare smaller companies off. In this case, they will probably opt for technical support and use an as-needed form of cooperation. No matter what you decide, remember to evaluate your company’s needs and choose the support accordingly.

Read Also:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

UTV Radios

The Role Of UTV Radios In Enhancing Your Outdoor Adventure Experience

Adventure is synonymous with the outdoors and Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs), but so is unpredictability. Unforeseen situations can arise, and when they do, reliable communication becomes indispensable. A good UTV radio is your lifeline, your link to the outside world, and your assurance of safety. It connects you to your group, helps coordinate efforts, and ensures you are never truly alone, no matter how remote the trail. And that's where UTV radios such as the Renegade X from Oxbow Gear come into play, acting as a bridge between convenience, communication, and safety. Understanding UTV Radios Designed for the rigors of the wild, UTV radios need to be resilient, trustworthy, and built to withstand everything nature throws at them. The Renegade X Radio doesn't just tick these boxes; it goes above and beyond. The innovative device incorporates a built-in Bluetooth chip that facilitates connectivity with your favorite listening devices. By leveraging this feature, you can now enjoy the convenience of a helmet intercom combined with the extended range of two-way radio transmission, even in the most challenging terrains. Safety Enhancement Safety is paramount when you're exploring the great outdoors, and a UTV radio is a crucial tool in ensuring this. The Renegade X Radio boasts an impressive 25 miles line-of-site range and a 1-5 miles backcountry range, ensuring that help is always within reach, regardless of where you are. Moreover, its robust design is a testament to its reliability. The internal face of the radio is sealed with a waterproof membrane to protect the mic and speaker from freezing. The Push-To-Talk (PTT) button is also entirely sealed, keeping moisture out even on the wettest days. Increased Connectivity Diving into an adventure in the great outdoors often means leaving behind the comfort and convenience of reliable connectivity. However, with Oxbow Gear's Renegade X radio, you won't have to compromise on keeping in touch with your team. In the midst of the thrill and adrenaline that outdoor adventure brings, the importance of seamless communication in enhancing the overall group experience can easily be underestimated. With the Renegade X's 22 channels and 121 sub-channels, coordinating with your team becomes effortless, no matter how far they might be. Whether it's to relay a newfound trail, a scenic spot, or a potential hazard, communication is critical. This enhanced connectivity fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie and collaboration, effectively transforming an already thrilling journey into an unforgettable shared experience. Enriched Group Experience Beyond the realms of functionality and safety, UTV radios also play a significant role in augmenting the pleasure derived from your adventures. A tool designed for ease and efficiency, the Renegade X comes packed with features designed to make your outdoor journey smoother and more enjoyable. For instance, the voice activation function ensures that your hands remain free to steer, navigate and explore while you communicate with your group. Coupled with the promise of a future remote PTT button pairing mode, this feature is designed to minimize interruptions, allowing you to fully immerse in the adventure. These capabilities not only contribute to a safer ride, but they also work together to make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful. In this way, the Renegade X stands as a testament to how technology can truly enhance our interaction with the great outdoors. With every feature meticulously crafted, it embodies the perfect blend of practicality and pleasure, serving to amplify the joy of exploration for every adventurer. More Enjoyable And Stress-Free Adventures Choosing the right UTV radio is just as crucial as having one. Aspects such as durability, range, and user-friendly interface are paramount. The Renegade X stands out in this regard with its rugged design, extended battery life courtesy of its power saver technology, and a highly intuitive user interface. The removable lithium-ion battery provides 36+ hours of use, ensuring that the radio stays powered through your long outdoor trips. Choosing The Right UTV Radio For Your Adventure In conclusion, UTV radios significantly enhance the overall outdoor adventure experience by ensuring safety, fostering group coordination, and providing a seamless communication experience. They are not mere accessories but essential gear that amplifies your enjoyment while providing a safety net. So, as you plan your next outdoor adventure, remember to prioritize communication. The Renegade X radio from Oxbow Gear, with its innovative design, rugged build, and advanced features, might just be the adventure partner you've been seeking. Explore the possibilities and choose the UTV radio that aligns perfectly with your needs and enriches your adventures. Read Also: Prepare Your Solar Panels for the Fall 10 Steps To Take To Set Up Solar Panels At Home How Much Do You Save With Solar Panels? The Ultimate Guide

READ MOREDetails
Alexa device issue

How To Troubleshoot The Alexa Not Responding Issue? [Fixed]

Alexa is a virtual assistant, which works with an echo dot in order to fulfill all the demands of its users. With its thousands of attractive features, Alexa has made the life of its users super easy and also entertaining at the same time.  With its hi-tech features, Alexa can do almost everything from controlling smart home lights to set reminders, playing songs, jokes, news, quizzes, and much more things. But due to some reasons, you may find your Alexa not responding to the commands that you are giving it.  Do not worry if you are facing the Alexa not responding issue. Here we have the most effective and easiest troubleshooting steps to fix this issue.  Troubleshoot The Alexa Not Responding Issue: Here are the troubleshooting steps that you need to follow for solving the Alexa not responding issue with your echo dot. There are a bunch of reasons for what you may be facing this Alexa not working issue.  So, let’s head towards the troubleshooting steps.  1. Check The Microphone Button There are many instances when we find that the reason behind Alexa not responding is because the microphone is damaged or we forget to turn the button on. The microphone button is one of the most common reasons for this issue.  So, check the microphone button first. If the issue persists and it seems that everything is totally fine there. You can step to the next process.  2. Reboot The Device This is one of the most effective and easiest ways in the whole troubleshooting process of Alexa is not responding issue. There is not much trouble, all you need to do is just restart the device and the issue will get resolved. But this restarting has a definite name called power drain, and it is more than just powering off the power button and power on it again.  Here is the step-by-step guide for the power drain process. First, you need to check the power light. In case it is showing blue light, that means the device is able to hear you but simply the Alexa device is unresponsive to your commands.  Disconnect the power cable from the power source for at least 30 seconds. Wait for a little while, and after that, connect the power cord again with the power outlet. Now, when your device is ready completely, try to give it any command again. If the issue is resolved, then it is fine. But in case the issue of Alexa not responding continues, head to the next step.  3. Echo Dot Hard Reset In case the above described troubleshoot does not work for your echo dot. Here is the step-by-step guide to hard reset. You will find the reset button at the bottom of the device. You can use a pin to press the button. As soon as you press the button, the device will power off. Here, you need to wait for a little and then power the device on again. All the settings of the device will then reset to the original.  4. Disable And Enable Alexa Privacy If Alexa not responding after all the above-mentioned troubleshooting steps, now is the time to enable Alexa privacy and in order to do so, follow the below steps. You will find a button at the end of Alexa’s nucleus screen. You need to press the button. This button is to enable the privacy of Alexa. If you press the button again, the device will hear you again. Give a command to Alexa in order to check whether the issue is resolved or not.  5. Check Your WiFi Connection Behind the “Alexa not responding” issue, there is a huge chance that maybe your wifi connection is not working properly. That is why Alexa is finding it difficult to respond to your commands.  Well, let me tell you that if you do not have a proper internet connection, there will be no use for this Alexa device. So, check the router now. In case you find anything wrong, contact your network service provider.  6. Try Changing The Position  In case you have placed your echo dot device far from your router or in someplace where it is having issues connecting with the router. This can be the main reason why you are experiencing “Alexa not responding.”  Make sure that you are placing Alexa within the wifi range. The place should be accessible to yours as well so that your echo dot device can connect with the network properly and also can hear you clearly.  7. Set Echo And Smartphone On The Same Network Always keep in mind that the smartphone that you are using and Alexa have to be connected within the same network. In case they are connected with different routers or your phone is not connected with the router’s network, you will face the “Alexa not responding issues.” Connect both of them on the same router’s network in order to resolve the issue.  8. WiFi Congestions If you have connected a lot of devices within the same router’s network, it may create the “Alexa not responding” issue. Due to excessive wifi congestions, your echo dot is not able to respond to your given commands. Remove or disconnect some other devices, and then try to give your device command and check if the issue is resolved.  Still Alexa Not Responding? All the steps that I have told you in this troubleshooting guide are enough for resolving Alexa not responding to voice issue. But if you face the same problem after performing all the troubleshooting steps. You should contact Alexa customer care. Call on the Alexa helpline number and ask for help.  More Resources:  Benefits Of Having A Cordless Vacuum Cleaner At Home What is type c cable, and is it worth buying

READ MOREDetails
Virtual Data Rooms

The Power of Virtual Data Rooms for Real Estate Businesses

The data room software is a popular and versatile technology. It’s highly sought after by entrepreneurs for secure work environments in today's real estate industry. VDRs effectively automate and streamline numerous business processes, offering a secure platform for managing documents while fostering transparency among colleagues and employees. Their utilization ensures the utmost safety and efficiency in real estate operations. What is a VDR? Essentially, a VDR serves as a digital hub for storing business records, files, and other valuable items containing sensitive information. Prior to the emergence of VDRs, organizations predominantly relied on conventional file storage methods, which failed to provide the requisite level of security. Presently, VDRs encompass a range of features, including: Surprisingly enough, this software serves a purpose far beyond mere file storage. It also acts as a secure environment for sharing and exchanging sensitive information with others. This process is completely safeguarded through various tracking mechanisms that meticulously monitor every action taken within the VDRs. Should there be any unauthorized attempt or an individual trying to access restricted documents contrary to the security policy, the system promptly alerts you, ensuring the utmost security of your data. Among the remarkable attributes of VDRs is their capacity to facilitate comprehensive automation of operations. While this functionality was not initially inherent in the VDR concept, developers swiftly recognized the need to automate business processes in order to maintain a competitive edge. As a result, automation has become a standard feature across all data room services, significantly enhancing efficiency and productivity within the workplace. The impregnable fortress of VDRs makes breaching their defenses an incredibly daunting task. In fact, it can be argued that breaching a company's VDR is nearly impossible, as news reports rarely surface about such incidents. This remarkable level of protection is the result of the stringent security measures employed by VDR providers. In order to instill confidence in business owners regarding the exclusive use of VDRs for preserving sensitive company information, these providers actively strive to obtain independent certifications and gain recognition from governmental authorities. And so far, their efforts have proven successful. The integration of a virtual data room into your company's infrastructure is definitely worth considering. It holds the potential to deliver substantial time savings for your staff, allowing them to redirect their efforts toward more productive and critical tasks that contribute to the growth of your business. VDR in real estate transactions In the realm of real estate transactions, high-tech innovations such as VDRs have finally found their rightful place. Modern companies operating in this field face the constant need to adapt and automate tasks that were previously handled without the desired level of security and efficiency. Entrepreneurs from around the globe, particularly those in developed nations, are increasingly recognizing the significance of integrating VDRs right from the outset of their business endeavors. This holds true not only for the real estate sector but also for other industries that shape today's economic landscape, marked by the impact of economic crises. Even traditional businesses, which have been accustomed to more conventional approaches, are now contemplating the acquisition of this advanced technology that has gained immense popularity in recent times. Perhaps you're wondering, what sets digital data rooms apart from other corporate technologies available today. The answer lies in several key factors. Embracing this technology grants you the ability to streamline an extensive array of daily tasks, ensuring optimal efficiency in your operations. By implementing such improvements in your real estate business, you can have full confidence in the proper management of your financial endeavors. As enterprises endeavor to enhance efficiency and productivity, the significance of automating workplace tasks continues to grow. Automation facilitates cost reduction, heightened productivity, and enhanced precision. Furthermore, it minimizes the time expended on routine responsibilities, allowing employees to dedicate their efforts to more critical undertakings. By providing swifter and more reliable service, automation also contributes to improving customer satisfaction. The advent of these technologies has revolutionized interdepartmental communication within organizations. Recognizing the persistent challenge posed by communication issues in the wake of technological advancements, this solution has been purposefully engineered to address this concern across companies. It stands as the exclusive program that effectively tackles this challenge head-on. It comes as no surprise that businesses are actively seeking ways to enhance communication between departments, recognizing its potential to drive efficiency, collaboration, and productivity. By fostering improved communication, the prevalence of misunderstandings and miscommunications can be minimized, cultivating an environment of trust and cooperation. The utilization of this technology ensures meticulous organization and efficient indexing of documents, thereby enabling swift and seamless retrieval when urgent tasks arise. Document indexing stands as a vital tool for modern businesses, allowing them to maintain a well-structured and easily navigable repository of information. By associating documents with relevant keywords or tags, the process of locating specific files is greatly simplified. This, in turn, guarantees secure and systematic storage, preventing the loss or misplacement of important documents. Moreover, the accuracy of search results is significantly enhanced through indexing. Furthermore, this feature can serve as an impressive asset for crowdfunding campaigns, surprising investors with its efficiency and accessibility. When compared to traditional file storage, virtual data rooms stand out in numerous aspects, particularly in terms of security. The emphasis on security is fundamental in VDRs, and you can rest assured that reputable software developers prioritize this aspect to deliver an exceptional level of protection, surpassing what conventional methods can offer. Conclusion Real estate deals have reached a stage where automating these procedures and fostering investor confidence are absolutely crucial. The cutting-edge technologies we've explored today serve as prime illustrations of what you can swiftly integrate. Not only will you enjoy all the advantages outlined in this piece, but you'll also gain a few extra perks. Remember to reach out directly to the developer if you have specific needs, as they'll gladly accommodate and potentially establish conditions for your company's accelerated growth in a highly competitive market. Read Also: What You Are Paying For With A Virtual Data Room What Is Virtual Data Room Pricing? A Beginners Guide How Your Hedge Fund Will Benefit from a Virtual Deal Room

READ MOREDetails