What Are Managed Services

by Billy J Long Guidance, PSA Articles

Article (PSA‑0007) – What Are Managed Services? (Updated 2025)

A **Managed Services Provider (MSP)** is a trusted IT partner that assumes ongoing responsibility for monitoring, maintaining, and supporting a defined set of technology assets on behalf of a business. The MSP handles routine tasks (patching, backups, alerts) and escalates or resolves issues so you can focus on core business activities.

Key Characteristics (2025)

  • Proactive monitoring – Cloud‑based Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM) platforms to spot problems before they cause downtime.
  • Security‑first mindset – Managed firewalls, endpoint detection & response (EDR), phishing simulations.
  • Scalable service tiers – From basic monitoring to fully‑managed environments that include help‑desk, device provisioning, disaster‑recovery testing, and strategic IT planning.

Typical Managed Services Offering

  • Monitoring & Alerting – 24/7 device health checks, performance dashboards, and automated ticket creation.
  • Patch & Update Management – OS, firmware, and third‑party application updates with rollback capability.
  • Backup & Disaster Recovery – Automated 3‑2‑1 backups, nightly snapshots, and regular restore testing.
  • Security Services – Firewall management, EDR, vulnerability scanning, MFA rollout, and security awareness training.
  • Help‑Desk & End‑User Support – Remote troubleshooting, on‑site visits when needed, ticket tracking, and SLA‑driven response times.

Why Small Businesses Need Managed Services

Even a modest office relies on a complex mix of devices, software, and internet services. When those pieces break, productivity—and revenue—suffer.

  • Predictable costs – A monthly subscription replaces surprise emergency‑repair bills.
  • Reduced downtime – Proactive monitoring and rapid incident response keep email, CRM, accounting, and point‑of‑sale systems online.
  • Security compliance – MSPs keep patches up‑to‑date.
  • Focus on core business – You don’t need an in‑house “IT jack‑of‑all‑trades”; the MSP handles the day‑to‑day tech grind.
  • Scalable expertise – As you add users, or devices, the MSP grows with you without a hiring surge.

Pricing Models (2025 Landscape)

  • Per‑device / per‑user subscription – Most common; you pay a flat fee for each workstation, server, or user license.
  • Tiered service packages – Basic, Standard, Premium* tiers determine response time, on‑site coverage, and breadth of services.
  • Value‑based pricing – Some MSPs tie fees to measurable outcomes (e.g., downtime reduced < 5 % or compliance level achieved).
  • Project‑based add‑ons – Network redesign, or security assessments billed separately.

What to Look For When Choosing an MSP

  1. Service Level Agreement (SLA) – Clearly defined response and resolution times (e.g., 1‑hour critical response).
  2. Certifications & expertise – Microsoft Certified Partner, CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA, or vendor‑specific cloud certifications.
  3. Transparent RMM & ticketing – Access to a portal where you can view real‑time alerts, open tickets, and historical reports.
  4. Backup & DR testing – Verify that backups are encrypted, stored off‑site, and that restore tests are performed quarterly.
  5. On‑site support options – Even with remote tools, occasional hands‑on work may be needed; ensure reasonable travel‑fee structures.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you need basic monitoring or a fully managed IT environment, PSA Computer Services can tailor a solution that fits your budget and growth plans.

Call us today at (707) 506‑6802 to discuss your needs, receive a customized quote, and schedule a free initial IT health assessment.