Why Do Businesses Need Managed Network Services
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April 23, 2024
- 7 min read
In the current digital age, a strong and safe network is essential for every successful business. Companies are being forced to strategically embrace Managed Network Services (MNS) as a result of the time and resources required to navigate the complexity of commercial network administration.
This article seeks to shed light on the world of Managed Network Systems (MNS), emphasising its benefits, salient features, and guiding principles for choosing the top Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to meet the needs of a company. We will examine how MNS is a vital facilitator of innovation and company efficiency, guaranteeing that your network infrastructure is a dynamic business engine rather than only a support function.
Understanding Managed Network Services
Managed Network Services (MNS) is an arena where technology and expertise are combined to help a business at all levels of network management. Providers of MNS offer enhancements to network management utilising the following methods:
Proactive Network Guardian:
This service deploys continuous surveillance of the network to identify and deal with the pressing issues before they become major concerns, while it aims to maintain key business functions.
Customised Network Architecture:
Through the services of Managed Service Providers (MSPs), networks can be designed, implemented and scaled up according to a company’s individual growth pattern and corporate targets.
Fortress-Level Security:
Innovative security methods used by MSPs can prevent the networks existing in the cyber-space from attacking, and they can keep sensitive data secure.
Continual Updates:
MSPs are capable of providing software updates and patches on an ongoing basis effectively, thus giving a network the advantage of functioning with the latest and the most upgraded versions.
Round-the-clock Support:
MSPs provide round-the-clock technical support, enabling clients to tap into professional advice exactly when the results are the most desired to ensure the smooth operation of the network.
By using MNS to transform your network management, your company can achieve new heights of dependability, efficiency, and security.
Also read: Network Transformation with Airtel Managed SD-WAN
Managed Network Services Vs. Traditional Network Services
Feature | Managed Network Services | Traditional Network Services |
Management Approach | Outsourced to specialised service providers. | Managed internally by the organisation’s IT team. |
Cost Efficiency | More cost-effective due to economies of scale and expertise. | Potentially higher costs due to internal resource requirements. |
Expertise | Access to specialised skills and advanced technology. | Dependent on the in-house team’s expertise and resources. |
Scalability | Easily scalable to adapt to business growth. | Scalability depends on internal capabilities and resources. |
Security | Enhanced security measures and compliance with industry standards. | Security is reliant on internal protocols and resources. |
Maintenance and Support | Proactive monitoring, maintenance, and support around the clock. | Typically reactive, dependent on internal support structures. |
Strategic Focus | Allows businesses to focus on core operations and growth. | Requires allocation of significant internal resources to network management. |
Innovation and Updates | Continuous access to the latest technologies and innovations. | Dependent on the organisation’s ability to update and innovate. |
Benefits Of Managed Network Services
Businesses of all sizes can reap significant benefits by adopting managed network services:
Enhanced Security: Advanced solutions to protect networks against cyber threats.
Improved Uptime And Performance: Proactive monitoring and maintenance for peak network performance.
Reduced Costs: Economies of scale, expertise, and optimised operations reduce management costs.
Increased Efficiency: Outsourcing frees up IT resources for strategic initiatives.
Scalability And Flexibility: Services adapt to business growth and changing needs.
Expertise And Experience: MSPs bring specialised knowledge and experience for complex network challenges.
Proactive Maintenance: Continuous monitoring to prevent and address issues promptly.
Strategic Focus: Allows businesses to concentrate on core activities and strategic growth.
Features Of Managed Network Services
Depending on your particular needs, managed network services might include a variety of functions. These might consist of:
Network Reporting And Monitoring:
Insights into possible problems, resource usage, and network performance are obtained by continuous monitoring.
Network Security Management:
To protect your network, MSP providers can put intrusion detection/prevention systems, firewalls, and other security measures in place.
Network Optimisation:
By locating and fixing inefficiencies and bottlenecks, MSPs may improve the performance of your network.
Disaster Recovery Planning And Business Continuity:
To reduce downtime and guarantee business continuity during interruptions, MNS providers can create and implement disaster recovery plans.
Managed SD WAN:
A lot of MNS providers provide managed SD WAN solutions, which make Wide Area Network (WAN) management easier and more effective for companies with different locations.
How To Choose The Right Managed Network Services Provider
Selecting the best Managed Network Services Provider (MNSP) is critical to your company’s success since it affects not just the performance and dependability of your network but also the entire operational effectiveness of your enterprise. An ideal MNSP functions as a strategic partner, matching its services to your company’s objectives, expanding with you as needed, and making sure your network is safe and effective.
Several criteria must be taken into account before starting the provider selection process. These consist of the provider’s background, how well their services match the demands of the business, how well they can grow with the business in the future, and the added value they can bring in addition to cost savings. Now let’s examine the crucial factors to take into account:
Experience And Expertise:
Seek out an MSP who has managed networks of comparable size and complexity to your own, as well as a track record of success in your sector.
Security Certifications:
Verify that the MNS supplier is committed to secure processes by looking for pertinent security certifications, such as ISO 27001 or SOC 2.
Services Provided:
Make sure the MNS provider’s services meet your company’s needs by evaluating them. This might involve managed SD-WAN solutions, cloud service integration, security management, and network monitoring.
Scalability:
Select an MSP that can expand its offerings to meet your goals for future expansion.
Communication And Assistance:
To ensure that your network problems are resolved quickly, give preference to MSPs who provide timely technical assistance that is accessible around the clock, along with clear and transparent communication channels.
Cost:
Although it’s a consideration, don’t make your choice based only on what’s least expensive. Examine each MNS provider’s value proposition, taking into account their offerings, level of experience, and total return on investment.
References And Customer Reviews:
To learn more about the MNS provider’s responsiveness and calibre of service, look for online customer reviews and speak with current clients for references.
Here are some additional tips for selecting the right MNS provider:
Create An RFP (Request For Proposals):
An RFP lets MNS suppliers customise their offers by outlining your unique network requirements and expectations.
Arrange For Consultations And Demos:
When speaking with possible MSPs, go over your company’s requirements and ask for demonstrations of their security and management systems.
Pose Specific Inquiries:
Probe deeply into the MNS provider’s background, portfolio of services, security procedures, and SLAs (Service Level Agreements).
You may select a Managed Service Provider (MSP) that best suits your needs and offers your company the best possible network administration, security, and support by carefully weighing these variables.
Also Read: What is SD-WAN? How is it reshaping manufacturing?
To Conclude
In today’s digital environment, a dependable and secure network is crucial for corporate success. With better security, faster network performance, and more efficiency, managed network services offer an economical and effective option. Businesses can free up important resources, and concentrate on their core company operations by selecting the best-managed service provider.
In India, Airtel Business is a top supplier of managed network services, with a wide range of products to meet the various demands of companies. With its wealth of knowledge, strong security procedures, and dedication to client pleasure, Airtel Business enables businesses to make use of their networks’ full potential and accomplish their strategic goals.