Working With A Managed Service Provider Can Save You Money, Here’s How!

Monica Morris • Oct 30, 2018

IT is one of the key ingredients for running a successful business in the modern world. For many organizations who fail to go digital – they run the risk of their day to day business operations falling into the wrong hands. Possibly the hands of a cyber criminal. However, with regular maintenance, security checks and system upgrades from a tech department – a company can stay afloat and remain secure. To keep up with in-house IT tasks, it can be costly and can become a drag on a company’s finances. Small businesses are most affected as their survival depends on how well they can manage operational costs over time.

What do you do if your in-house IT business expenses keep rising? Thanks to managed service providers , a business can explore the option to outsource their technical needs.

Below, we discuss in detail how a managed service provider (MSP) can help your business save money.

1. Save On Staffing

As a small business owner, your financial resources are limited and given that IT professionals are one of the highest paid members of a staff, getting skilled personnel may be very difficult.

When your IT functions are outsourced, you can save money that would have been spent on salaries, insurance, benefits and more. Over time, the costs can eat deep into your business’ finance. Since your MSP bills is a fixed monthly payment, you will be saving money by paying only for the services that you need. Being able to budget correctly also allows you to plan effectively for your business growth.

2. Training Expenses

IT knowledge dynamic – what is new now could be obsolete in the next few months. Thus, continuous training is mandatory for a team to stay up to date. However, this comes at a huge cost to your business. Depending on the IT specialty, the costs could range in tens of thousands per employee. By working with an MSP, you can sidestep these costs and concentrate on running your business more effectively. The MSP will ensure that its staff has the right skill sets to provide your business with the best services it needs. Your business will benefit from specialized IT skills without incurring training costs.

3. Quick Maintenance

The resolution of IT challenges may be delayed due to lack of skill or manpower. When a fault with your network is not fixed quickly, it can cause inconvenience to your customer and consequent loss in revenue. An MSP monitors your system 24×7 and will respond promptly to any problem that might affect your business.

4. Cyber Security

Hackers are searching for vulnerable businesses to infiltrate for financial gain. Security breaches not only disrupt your business but recovering from them may cost you a lot. Recovery may not even be possible in some cases and the business will be forced to shut down. It is, therefore, necessary to have skilled cyber security experts looking after your business. MSPs have a specialized team of IT security technicians who know the best ways to secure your network from criminals.

5. Regulation Compliance

Depending on the industry you operate in, there may be certain guidelines on how to run certain aspects of your business or handle customer’s data. These regulations usually evolve with time and it can be costly to keep up with current guidelines. There are usually penalties if your business if found not compliant. With an MSP, compliance is no longer your responsibility, the outsourced firm is expected to meet the necessary regulatory requirements.

6. Services Cost

When you require services such as data backup, recovery and remote access for your business and decide to go at it alone, you bear the full setup and maintenance costs which can add up in the long run. A MSP is able to provide or acquire such service at a scale which leads to a reduced cost for you.

In Closing

Making a profit in your business requires that you master your margin and keep expenses down. While the idea of running everything in-house might sound great, it may not be the right fit for your bottom-line. When you hire an MSP, your monthly IT costs will be consistent. This will allow you to budget correctly and plan more adequately for the growth of your business.

To find out if outsourcing your IT to a managed service provider is the right fit for your business, please feel free to reach out to a SDTEK team member for more information.

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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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