Businesses everywhere are moving to the Cloud in an attempt to backup their data. Everyone is beginning to recognize the importance in doing so; however, some are stumped by the fact that there are two different options to choose from when using the Cloud.
There’s the Cloud, and there are also managed services providers. What are the key differences between cloud and managed services providers? The difference is simple: All managed services providers are clouds, in that they work the same way as a basic cloud system, but all clouds are not managed services providers, in that they don’t offer all the same benefits.
Clouds (examples of which being, Amazon Workspaces and Dropbox) offer things such as file sharing and Desktop as a Service (DaaS) along with similar platforms. They’re generally cheaper than managed services providers, but they don’t offer IT support. This can be costly, if a virus or malfunction causes loss of your data which does happen in the cloud the same as it does on a local computer.
Managed Services Providers offer everything that a general Cloud Services Provider offers, along with:
- Malicious software and virus solutions
- Network connectivity
- Backups
- Disaster recovery
- Data security
- Growth management
- IT support
The main difference between the two platforms are what they offer. Managed services providers offer more for your money (and yes, that generally means more money from you) so that you don’t have to pay more later when disaster strikes, furthermore MSPs prevent disasters more often then not. The added security generally makes businesses feel more inclined to use the services more, and potentially increase their own revenues in doing so.
So while clouds will help you consolidate your business with their host options, they won’t be able to support your company’s data in a more all-encompassing way. Always do what is best for your company, but consider a managed services provider to better protect your livelihood. More often than not a combination of the two services is what is necessary if you are a business. Keep in mind, cloud services like local desktops and laptops are not managed on there own, they must be managed by a MSP. If they are not, a cloud DaaS is as vulnerable as a laptop sitting on your desk. Amazon Workspaces for instance provides the service DaaS, like other cloud service providers however they do not provide protection, maintenance, update management, data protection, etc… We provide both services individually and in many combinations to benefit your business. If you need help in deciding which to choose and what is best for you and your companies needs, give the Nerds a call. That is what we are here for. 877-250-8575.
