Support
(587) 745-0366
Choosing the right IT partner can feel overwhelming, especially when technical jargon clouds the decision-making process. If you’ve come across terms like “managed services” and “managed IT services” and aren’t sure what separates the two, you’re not alone.
Let’s talk about it.
What Are Managed Services?
Managed services cover various outsourced business functions. Essentially, a third-party provider takes over day-to-day responsibilities in specific areas, allowing you to focus on running your business. Think of these services as a “catch-all” category that could include:
- Accounting services to handle finances
- HR services for payroll and recruitment
- Marketing services for SEO and ad management
- General IT support for systems upkeep
The goal? To take non-core but necessary operational activities off your plate, giving you more time for strategic growth. For smaller tasks or processes, this setup might work perfectly.
What Are Managed IT Services?
Managed IT services are a specialized subset of managed services. Instead of focusing on general operations, this model is tailored to meet a company’s technological needs. Managed IT providers typically focus on:
- Network monitoring and maintenance
- Advanced cybersecurity systems
- Cloud management and backups
- Proactive IT support and consultation
This specialization matters. Unlike general services, IT-specific providers tackle the intricacies of safeguarding your business’s digital infrastructure, defending you from hackers, malware, and data breaches. Instead of a break-fix approach where there’s merely a reaction to a breach, they ensure your tech environment is running securely and efficiently before threats can arise.
Why Going General Can Put Your Security at Risk
Opting for general managed services over a niche managed IT service may seem like a cost-saving shortcut, but it can introduce multiple risks to your business. Here’s why:
1. Lack of Security Awareness Training
General managed services might support software installation or systems maintenance, but they often miss one of the most crucial layers in cybersecurity: people. According to the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, human error is one of the leading causes of security breaches. Without in-depth security awareness training, your employees might fall victim to phishing scams or accidentally share sensitive information.
Managed IT services, on the other hand, prioritize hands-on training for your team, teaching them how to recognize threats before it’s too late.
2. Outdated Security Practices
The digital landscape evolves fast, and so do cybercrime tactics. Attackers employ sophisticated methods that many managed services providers may not be equipped to detect or defend against. Without a team dedicated purely to IT, your systems could be left vulnerable to newer forms of malware, ransomware, or zero-day exploits.
Managed IT providers are specialists who stay updated on the latest cybersecurity trends. They receive continuous training and certifications to ensure your business is protected against the most current threats.
3. Bare Minimum Support
“Bare minimum” is often a term that applies to generic managed service contracts. Providers in the general sphere often take a reactive rather than a proactive approach. Translation? They might wait for something to break before stepping in, which could mean costly downtime for your business.
Managed IT services, however, operate under a proactive model, where constant monitoring and maintenance allow issues to be resolved before they escalate. This ensures that you aren’t stuck waiting for hours (or days) for someone to respond to your support ticket.
Why Specialized Support Matters More Than Ever
Canada has seen a sharp increase in cyberattacks over recent years, costing businesses millions in lost revenue, stolen data, and tarnished reputations. When critical IT support is treated as an afterthought rather than a core function, the risks compound. Without specialized oversight, vulnerabilities creep into your systems unnoticed.
If you’re outsourcing tasks like payroll or marketing, general managed services might suffice. But when it comes to technology, where trust and expertise are obligatory, managed IT services should be your first choice. Security threats, system downtime, and the costly fallout of a data breach can outweigh any perceived short-term savings.
Protect Your Business with Alt-Tech
Your business deserves more than the bare minimum. At Alt-Tech, we specialize in proactive managed IT services tailored to Canadian businesses. From defending your systems against cyber threats to providing 24/7 support, we’re here to keep you running at full speed.
Curious about how managed IT services can transform your business? Contact us today to book a free consultation and see how Alt-Tech can help future-proof your company. Don’t wait for a problem to arise; start protecting your business now.
