What Kind of IT Support Company Should I Choose?

Monica Morris • Mar 29, 2016

In our last two blog posts we discussed how to assess your IT support needs  and how to decide if you should hire an IT support technician as an employee or outsource to a company.  In this week’s blog we will explore the different types of IT support models.

Managed IT Services or Break Fix IT Services?

W hen you first start shopping for IT support you will run into two terms, break fix support and managed service support.  These refer to different business models for providing IT support.  The break fix support model has been around since the beginning of IT services.  With this model you pay for services as you need them, usually on an emergency or urgent basis.  This is similar to people without medical insurance that go to urgent care clinics or the emergency room when they become sick or injured.

Managed IT support or a managed service provider or MSP as they are frequently referred to is a more pro-active support plan.  Typically managed IT service companies will put in monitoring on your computers or networks or both to proactively prevent problems.  Think of this as a health insurance program where you can get regular checkups and tests to make sure your network is healthy.

Both models offer help desk support so which is the right one for you?  The answer to this question is largely subjective but there are objective criteria to consider.

Break Fix Model

Pro’s

  1.        No monthly fee
  2.        No software added to your computer
  3.        Usually they have remote technicians available

Con’s

  1.        Hourly rates are usually higher than MSP when needed
  2.        No monitoring of your computers or network
  3.        No update management
  4.        No way to amortize IT expenses over the year
  5.        No service level agreements for responsiveness
  6.        No incentive to keep your computers and network problem free
  7.        Loss of revenue and efficiency when computers or the network is compromised

Managed IT Services Model

Pro’s

  1.        Fixed monthly fee
  2.        Monitoring of all major network components, servers and workstations
  3.        Guaranteed Service Response times
  4.        IT company has an incentive to keep your network running
  5.        IT company has an incentive to restore services quickly
  6.        Support desk technicians are available
  7.        More uptime means greater efficiency, more revenue and more profits
  8.        Retains a deep understanding of your network infrastructure and corporate needs that create a technology partnership for growth

Con’s

  1.        Fixed monthly fee

As you can see, the scale is heavily weighted on the side of managed IT services.  The reason is simple; this is the only model that incents your service provider to keep your network trouble-free.  In the MSP model, your support provider will be a true partner.  A break-fix company is not invested in your success, they only make money when you have a problem.  Alternatively, if a company is contracted with an MSP and they continually have IT issues they will leave that provider and find one that can eliminate those issues.  Therefore, the IT services company has a vested interest in keeping everything running smoothly.

Lastly, some companies offer a choice of break-fix or managed IT support.  We will discuss that issue next week when we reveal “How to Pick Your Managed Service Support Company.”

Fort Wayne Indiana downtown

Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats in Fort Wayne: A Guide for Local Businesses

05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.

The Benefits of Cybersecurity Dark Web Monitoring for Business Owners

06 Dec, 2023
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
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