Many business owners still think of IT support as something that's only necessary when there's a problem. But while it's certainly important to have someone on call to deal with the occasional technical glitch, proactive IT support can make a world of difference in terms of efficiency and security.
What is proactive IT support?
Proactive IT support is a preventive approach to managing a business's IT infrastructure. Rather than waiting for problems to arise and then responding to them, IT staff or a managed IT services provider (MSP) constantly monitors systems and takes steps to prevent issues from occurring in the first place.
These steps can involve anything from regularly patching software and updating security settings to ensuring that systems and data are properly configured and backed up. Proactive IT support also includes monitoring for trends and issues that could indicate future problems. Businesses that proactively take care of their IT are less likely to experience major disruptions and can often resolve issues more quickly when they do arise.
How does a business benefit from proactive IT support?
Taking a proactive approach to IT management has several key business benefits, including:
Fully optimized systems
Proactive IT support helps ensure that systems are always running at peak performance. By regularly monitoring system health and implementing preventative maintenance, businesses can avoid the frustration of slow or unresponsive systems.
For instance, an MSP often uses tools like remote desktop monitoring to keep an eye on a business's servers and workstations. This allows the MSP to quickly identify and fix any issues that could lead to data loss or corruption, ensure that servers have adequate resources, and fine-tune systems for maximum efficiency.
Enhanced security
Most businesses today generate and store a significant amount of data, making them a prime target for cybercriminals. Proactive IT support can help keep this data safe by implementing strong security measures and monitoring for signs of intrusion.
For example, an MSP can help a business set up a firewall to protect its network from external threats and install intrusion detection software to alert the MSP if someone attempts to access the network without permission. The MSP can also provide regular security training to employees to help them avoid common mistakes that could lead to a data breach.
Reduced downtime
One of the most frustrating things for businesses is when IT systems go down. This can happen for a variety of reasons, from power outages and hardware failures to software glitches and cyberattacks.
While it's impossible to completely eliminate downtime, proactive IT support can help ensure fewer and shorter disruptions. For instance, an MSP can install backup systems that kick in when the primary system goes offline. The MSP can also work with the business to develop a disaster recovery plan that outlines how to quickly get systems up and running in the event of an outage.
Satisfied customers
In today's competitive marketplace, businesses must do everything they can to please customers. This includes providing a smooth and seamless customer experience, which often relies on technology.
Proactive IT support can help businesses meet this goal by ensuring that systems are always available and running properly. An MSP can install a customer relationship management system to help businesses keep track of customer interactions and quickly resolve any issues that arise. The MSP can also provide regular performance reports that show how technology is impacting the customer experience.
Substantial cost savings
Perhaps the most compelling reason to invest in proactive IT support is the potential for significant cost savings. By taking steps to prevent problems before they occur, businesses can avoid the high cost of dealing with unexpected downtime, data loss, and security breaches.
In addition, proactive IT support can help businesses get the most out of their existing IT infrastructure. For instance, an MSP can help a business upgrade its software so that it can take advantage of new features and performance enhancements. The MSP can also provide advice on how to properly maintain equipment so that it lasts longer and needs fewer repairs.
Ultimately, proactive IT support is a smart investment for any business that wants to avoid the common pitfalls of poor IT management. Taking a proactive approach means businesses can enjoy secure and fully optimized systems, happy customers, and significant cost savings.
Do you want to learn more about proactive IT support? Contact outsourceIT today to speak with one of our experts. We can help you get started on the path to better IT management.
