More than just help desk support, managed IT service providers (MSPs) can be the difference between constant growth and stagnant development for your business. With a full range of IT services from data security to cloud hosting, MSPs can deliver the kind of reliable support critical for success in a tech-driven world.

Choosing the right managed IT service provider for your company is an important decision and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. However, with countless MSPs out there, how can you choose the best? 

We’ll dive into the nuances of MSPs and why companies like SysArc stand out, especially in the realm of high-end cybersecurity.

What Is a Managed IT Service Provider?

A managed IT service provider, or MSP, is an external organization that remotely manages a customer’s IT infrastructure and/or end-user systems on a proactive basis, typically under a subscription model. These providers are entrusted with the task of ensuring that an organization’s IT functions run smoothly, efficiently, and securely.

How an MSP Helps Organizations Operate

Here’s how a workday might look differently after partnering with the right IT provider. Before partnering with a managed IT service provider, you might experience frequent challenges like 

• Slow internet speeds, 
• Server issues delaying critical communications, 
• Video conferencing glitches, and 
• Unexpected software downtimes.

Cybersecurity threats like malware from seemingly harmless emails could jeopardize company data. Evenings might be spent troubleshooting IT issues or dealing with after-hours IT emergencies.

After bringing an MSP on board, these challenges are proactively addressed. Emails are sent seamlessly, video conferences run without hitches, software tools are always up-to-date and available, and potential cybersecurity threats are flagged and isolated before they can pose any danger.

Instead of reacting to problems, the focus shifts to growth and core business tasks. Businesses can offload their IT infrastructure to expert hands.

What Services Do They Offer?

What can you expect from managed IT service providers? MSPs deliver a wide array of IT solutions designed to give your business the technology solutions it needs. These services are scalable, which means businesses can select offerings that best suit their current needs and scale up or down based on future requirements. 

Although this list isn’t comprehensive, it should give you a good idea of the many services you can access from managed IT service providers:

• Cloud Computing: Cloud storage, data migration to the cloud, and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
• Digital and Network Security: Firewalls, malware protection, antivirus software, DDoS protection
• Data Backup Solutions: Online backup services for files and databases
• Network Monitoring Tools: Proactive monitoring of network performance
• Proactive Maintenance: Proactive system and application maintenance, patch management, software updates
• 24/7 Service Desk Support: Helpdesk support with expert technicians available round the clock
• Disaster Recovery Planning: Design and implementation of a strategy to help your business recover from any unforeseen IT disasters such as system failures, data breaches, or natural disasters
• IT Consulting Services: Strategic advice on implementing new technologies, improving IT infrastructure, and optimizing IT operations for better efficiency and productivity.
• Remote Work Solutions: Provide tools and services to enable your remote employees to work effectively and securely. Includes VPNs, remote desktop services, and secure collaboration tools
• Compliance Solutions: Compliance with standards like CMMC, DFARS, NIST frameworks, and more

Does Your Business Need an MSP?

If you’re on the fence about whether your organization actually needs an MSP, consider the following questions:

• Are your employees frustrated with their technology?
• Are you spending time troubleshooting technology issues?
• Are you tired of constantly fighting fires with reactive IT solutions?
• Do you want data that is secure and complies with all relevant standards?
• Are you looking for cost savings and efficiency gains without sacrificing performance?

If your answer is “yes” to any of these questions, then an MSP can provide the help you need. Managed IT service providers are designed to use their expertise to make your job easier. Just like business owners outsource their marketing or accounting, managed IT can offer essential technical capabilities that internal IT teams may lack.

How Can You Find the Right Managed IT Service Provider for Your Business?

Choosing the right MSP goes beyond just finding a vendor; it’s about building a partnership. Here are qualities the right provider should have:

1. Prioritize Quick Response Time and Constant Communication 

Technology issues can arise at any moment, and timely response is essential. The best MSPs prioritize communication, are transparent, and take swift action.

2. Understand Your Industry’s Compliance Requirements 

Particularly for industries that have stringent regulatory requirements, ensuring IT compliance is vital. SysArc, for instance, is a leading provider of DFAR and CMMC compliance solutions and caters specifically to the DoD supply chain.

3. Prioritize the Best Innovative Solutions for Your Industry 

Go for MSPs who stay on top of technological advancements and can offer cutting-edge solutions tailored for your industry, such as automation, productivity tools, security solutions, and more.

4. Customer-Centric Approach 

While focusing on your technology is the primary role of managed IT service providers, it’s equally essential to emphasize a customer-centric approach. A customer-centric approach means putting your business’s unique needs and goals at the forefront of every decision and solution.

5. Customizable, Flexible Solutions 

As your business evolves, so will your IT requirements. MSPs should offer solutions that can adapt to these changes.

6. Professionals Who Are the Top Talent 

The MSP should have clear standards for their employees that are expressed through company values. You’ll know quickly whether the company has an established culture or is just stringing things along as they go.

7. Provide the Latest, Most Comprehensive Solutions 

Beyond just keeping the lights on, a top-notch MSP will actively search for ways to improve and fortify your IT infrastructure.

SysArc as Your Trusted Managed Service Provider

Since 2004, our clients have trusted us to provide comprehensive managed IT services. We are a leading provider of enterprise-level managed IT solutions, and we work with businesses across multiple industries to ensure top-notch performance.

As a leader in regulated industries like Aerospace & Defense, Financial Services and Critical Infrastructure, we understand the complexities of safeguarding data and keeping systems updated. Our team of certified professionals specializes in planning, designing, building, and managing systems that empower business owners to maximize their productivity.

With us as your partner, you can rest assured that your IT systems are secure and reliable. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how SysArc can revolutionize the way you manage your IT services! 

 

With the rising threat of cybercrime, cybersecurity is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Every business, regardless of size or industry, should prioritize developing a comprehensive cybersecurity plan. While creating such a plan takes effort and time, it’s a critical investment in protecting your company’s digital assets.

Whether you’re an e-commerce business or a DoD contractor, you need to be prepared with a plan. Here’s why.

What Is Cybersecurity Planning?

A cybersecurity plan outlines the measures a business will take to protect its digital assets from cyber threats. Key components of an effective cybersecurity plan include: 

• Robust risk assessments
• Clear protocols for responding to breaches 
• Ongoing training programs for staff

The primary objectives are to shield sensitive data, maintain operational continuity, and comply with legal and regulatory mandates.

Evolving Cyber Threats That Put Your Business at Risk

The world of cyber threats is dynamic, with new dangers emerging daily. Daily might sound like an exaggeration but with the rise in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, even people who are not adept at technology can now create malicious code.

And those who do have a hacking background will use AI to create more efficient attacks, such as through voice cloning or CAPTCHA-breaking.

Classic cyberattacks still reign supreme: ransomware, phishing schemes, and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. By leveraging these methods, cybercriminals can access your system, steal valuable data, and hold it for ransom.

High-profile cyberattacks, such as the WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017 or the Colonial Pipeline in 2021, have crippled major organizations and caused significant financial and reputational damage. While these cases happened to larger businesses, small businesses are not immune to similar threats. 

4 Reasons Why Your Business Needs a Cybersecurity Plan

In an increasingly digitized world, the importance of a solid cybersecurity plan cannot be understated. Here are top four reasons why your business cannot afford to overlook this critical aspect.

1. Protection of Sensitive Data

In an era where data is akin to currency, safeguarding sensitive information has become paramount. For businesses, this means putting rigorous measures in place to protect both customer and employee information.

These details, often ranging from personal identification numbers to financial data, can be lucrative targets for cybercriminals. Without robust cybersecurity measures, businesses expose themselves to data breaches, where this sensitive information can be leaked or stolen.

Such breaches don’t just lead to potential financial losses but also legal implications, especially when mandatory data protection regulations are involved.

2. Continuity of Operations

Cyber incidents, regardless of their scale, can cripple a company’s day-to-day operations. Whether it’s an invasive malware that’s disrupting system functions or a ransomware attack locking out essential files, the impacts are significant. 

For example, 60% of small businesses that experience a data breach permanently shut down after only 6 months of the occurrence. 

Businesses must have a cybersecurity plan that focuses on mitigating these impacts. This means not just countering the threat but ensuring that the business can continue its operations with minimal disruption.

By emphasizing business continuity, companies can minimize the potential downtime and associated revenue loss from cyber incidents.

3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

The digital age has brought with it a slew of data protection and privacy laws that businesses must follow. Among these are the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).

These regulations set out clear guidelines for companies, especially those working with the Department of Defense, to ensure the security of their data. Navigating these laws isn’t just about adherence; it’s about understanding the potential legal consequences of non-compliance.

Penalties can range from hefty fines to a loss of business contracts, which makes it essential for companies to integrate these compliance measures into their cybersecurity plans.

4. Reputation and Trust Preservation

In a connected world, reputation is everything. Once a business suffers a cyber breach, restoring its reputation becomes an uphill battle, one that is very easy to lose. Customers, stakeholders, and partners want to be assured that their data is in safe hands.

A single incident can erode years of trust and loyalty built with these groups. Therefore, having a strong cybersecurity plan isn’t just about prevention but also about preserving the integrity and trustworthiness of the business.

Companies that prioritize security not only safeguard their operations but also ensure that they remain reputable and trusted entities in their respective industries.

6 Elements of an Effective Cybersecurity Plan

If your business lacks a cybersecurity plan, you can get started now. Creating an effective cybersecurity plan involves incorporating various elements that cover all aspects of your business’s digital operations. 

Here are six crucial components your plan should feature to ensure comprehensive protection against cyber threats.

1. Risk Assessment and Vulnerability Management

Risk assessment is the process of identifying and analyzing potential security threats to provide businesses with a clear understanding of their exposure.

Vulnerability management complements this by pinpointing weaknesses in systems that could be exploited. Together, they form the frontline defense that enables organizations to preemptively address and mitigate risks before they escalate into major issues.

2. Strong Access Controls and Authentication

Robust access controls ensure that only authorized individuals can access critical business data to safeguard it from potential internal and external threats. Coupled with advanced authentication measures, like multi-factor authentication, businesses can add multiple layers of protection, making unauthorized access exponentially more challenging.

3. Regular Security Training and Awareness

The human element is often the weakest link in cybersecurity. Through consistent security training and awareness programs, businesses can equip their staff with the knowledge and tools to recognize and avoid cyber threats. Businesses can turn employees into fighters against cybercrime.

4. Incident Response and Recovery Procedures

Even with the best precautions, incidents can occur. Having a well-defined response and recovery procedure ensures that businesses can act swiftly during a cyber incident, which can minimize damage and restore normal operations. These procedures, when tested and refined regularly, provide a blueprint for action during crises.

5. Data Backup and Disaster Recovery Plans

Data is invaluable in today’s business landscape. By ensuring that data is regularly backed up and having a disaster recovery plan in place, businesses can restore operations swiftly after data loss events, be it from cyberattacks, system failures, or natural disasters.

6. Partnering with a Managed Service Provider

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) bring expertise and resources that many businesses may lack in-house. By partnering with an MSP, organizations can leverage specialized knowledge, tools, and strategies tailored to their needs. MSPs provide a comprehensive and up-to-date cybersecurity posture.

With a proven track record of delivering top-tier security solutions, SysArc ensures businesses, especially those collaborating with the DoD, are not only compliant but thoroughly protected. Leveraging SysArc’s expertise means accessing the latest in security technologies and methodologies, tailored specifically for your business needs.

SysArc Gives Mid-Size Businesses Access to Enterprise-Level Security

Mid-Size businesses often face the challenge of limited budgets for advanced cybersecurity technology. However, typical MSPs are limited in what they can provide when it comes to cybersecurity. Fortunately, at SysArc, we specialize in cybersecurity and offer the latest security solutions at prices mid-size businesses can afford.

With a history of protecting their DoD clients using top-tier security measures, we are the trusted partner you need. And with services like a Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO service), SOC Services, vulnerability scans, and more, we provide a comprehensive end-to-end security solution.

Are you ready to fortify your business’s defenses? Schedule a free consultation with us today and invest in a secure future.

In a time defined by the surge in cyber threats and the digitalization of businesses, the role of an IT service provider is paramount. These entities don’t merely manage your IT infrastructure; they’re also the protective shield guarding your business against cyber adversaries. But how do you know whether your service provider is genuinely defending your interests?

Although many IT providers position themselves as security experts, the truth is that not all of them are truly qualified to provide comprehensive security solutions. Because no two businesses have identical IT needs, it’s important to do some research and find an experienced IT service provider who can help you protect your business from cyber threats.

This resource includes everything you need to find out if your current IT service provider is truly offering your business the protection it needs.

Warning Signs Your IT Service Provider Might Not Be Protecting Your Business

Are there indicators that your business’s digital security isn’t in the best possible hands? These red flags are vital to look out for as you interact with your IT service provider.

Lack of Communication

Effective communication is the backbone of a strong partnership, especially when it comes to IT security. When there’s inadequate reporting on security incidents, businesses are left in the dark unaware of potential vulnerabilities or breaches.

Furthermore, limited transparency in a provider’s security practices can create a wall of mistrust. If your IT service provider isn’t openly sharing information about the measures they’re taking, or if they’re omitting details about potential threats, it could indicate a lack of comprehensive security oversight or worse, an attempt to hide shortcomings.

Outdated Technology and Practices

The cyber realm evolves at an unprecedented rate, and, with it, the threats that businesses face. An IT service provider that fails to adopt modern security solutions is leaving your business exposed to a myriad of contemporary threats.

Additionally, reliance on obsolete or unsupported software is not just a sign of complacency but a glaring red flag. Such software often lacks the security patches needed to counteract newer threats and makes them vulnerable entry points for cyber attackers.

Insufficient Backup and Recovery Plans

Data is often termed the “new oil” for businesses. Hence, its protection, backup, and recovery are crucial. If your IT service provider lacks a comprehensive data backup and disaster recovery strategy, the potential fallout from data loss or breaches becomes astronomical.

And it’s not just about having backup systems; it’s also about testing them. Inadequate testing of these systems could mean they malfunction when you need them most. A robust backup system is only as good as its latest successful test.

Reactive Instead of Proactive Approach

In the world of IT security, prevention is always better than cure. Service providers that address security issues only after they arise are perpetually playing catch-up. This reactive approach leaves businesses vulnerable to the initial onslaught of attacks.

Moreover, the absence of a well-defined incident response plan signifies a lack of preparedness. Such a plan is vital in guiding the immediate actions post a security breach. With an incident response plan in place, your business could minimize damage and experience a swift return to normal operations.

The 4 Signs of an Effective IT Service Provider

Let’s delve into the four major indicators that signify an effective IT service provider. These characteristics will guide you in assessing whether your current provider is sufficiently safeguarding your business.

1. A Proactive Approach to Security

An effective IT service provider doesn’t merely react to threats; they actively anticipate and prepare for them. A proactive security strategy entails constantly updating security measures to counteract new and evolving threats.

This requires an ongoing commitment to research, learning about potential vulnerabilities in the infrastructure, and putting measures in place even before a threat materializes. 

By staying one step ahead, these providers ensure that your business’s digital assets are shielded from potential breaches to ensure business continuity and safeguard sensitive data.

2. Robust Data Encryption

In the digital age, data is invaluable, and its protection is paramount. An effective IT service provider will prioritize the use of advanced encryption protocols. This not only encompasses encrypting data when it’s in transit (being sent or received over the internet) but also when it’s at rest (stored on servers or databases).

Implementing data encryption ensures that even if malicious entities were to gain access to the data, decoding it would be an insurmountable challenge. This two-pronged encryption strategy guarantees the protection of sensitive customer information and critical company data that adds an essential layer of security.

3. Comprehensive Network Monitoring

Continual vigilance is the key to cybersecurity. An efficient IT service provider employs comprehensive network monitoring tools and techniques.

This means that the network is under constant surveillance and scans for any anomalies or suspicious activities. With real-time monitoring and advanced threat detection systems, any irregularities are quickly identified, assessed, and acted upon.

This rapid response capability can often mean the difference between a minor IT hiccup and a major data breach. The immediate identification and mitigation of potential threats ensure business operations remain uninterrupted and secure.

4. Employee Training and Awareness

Despite advancements in technology, human error remains one of the most common vulnerabilities exploited in cyberattacks—90% of cyberattacks can be traced to human errors. Recognizing this, top-tier IT service providers prioritize ongoing cybersecurity training for all staff members.

Such training sessions keep employees updated on the latest threats, the potential consequences of breaches, and best practices to avoid them. An informed team, well-versed in the nuances of cybersecurity, is an invaluable asset in the fight against cyber threats and fortifying your business’s digital defenses.

What Do You Risk with Inadequate IT Security?

Inadequate IT security can pose severe risks to your business—from financial losses and damaged reputation to regulatory penalties and loss of customer trust. Understanding these risks can underscore the importance of partnering with a competent IT service provider who prioritizes your business’s digital safety.

You Face Paying for the Cost of Cybercrime

From cryptocrime to ransomware, the impact of cyberattacks can be crippling. IBM calculated the average cost of a data breach (including lost business, detection and escalation, notification, and post-breach response) to be $4.45 million USD in 2023.

The cybercrime market is expected to grow 15% year over year for the next three years, meaning the $4.45 million figure will keep climbing.

You Face Paying for Reputational Damage

Paying for cybercrime is crippling, but there is nothing more devastating than losing the trust of your customers. According to Kaspersky, “The average cost of brand damage caused by a single incident was approximately $8,000 for small and medium-sized businesses, and $200,000 for enterprises.” 

A data breach can have long-term implications for a business’s brand equity.

You Face Loss of Revenue or Paying Fines for Breaches in Compliance Regulations

In some cases, companies may be liable for non-compliance with data privacy regulations such as the following:

• DFARS
• CMMC 2.0
• FISMA
• GDPR
• CCPA
• HIPAA

Many of these compliance regulatory bodies provide guidelines and recommendations for helping businesses avoid data breaches. Your IT service provider should be familiar with varying regulations and create plans to help you meet compliance regulations.

You Need to Invest in Security Measures to Secure Your Business

In today’s digital age, IT security is no longer optional but an integral part of any successful business strategy. By entrusting the right IT service provider with your company’s cyber defenses, you are taking a step in the right direction to protect your digital assets and secure the future of your business.

Take These Steps to Ensure Your IT Service Provider Is Protecting Your Business

Now that you know what you should expect from your IT partner, what can you do about it? These four steps can help you open conversations with your current provider and improve the service they offer. 

However, remember that they might not have the tools and capacities that you need. In that case, it’s best to switch providers with the right credentials.

1. Open Communication and Regular Updates

Consistent communication is vital. Ensure your IT service provider actively keeps you in the loop with regular updates.

2. Request for Security Documentation

Documentation provides proof of your provider’s security measures. Always request this to verify their claims and gauge the robustness of their security framework.

3. Evaluation of Security Measures

A regular review of the security protocols in place is essential. Regularly evaluate the provider’s security measures to ensure that they’re up-to-date and aligned with current cyber threats and compliance regulations.

4. Collaboration for Incident Response Planning

Proactive planning is key. Collaborate with your provider to develop a clear, actionable plan for any security incidents for swift and efficient responses to potential breaches.

Are You Looking for a Comprehensive Security Provider? Trust SysArc

While many general MSPs offer a baseline of security, they often lack the high-end, advanced solutions that specialized firms like SysArc provide. SysArc, for instance, has pioneered the implementation of cybersecurity requirements for our DoD contractor clients since 2017 when DFARS first became law.

This means that when you partner with SysArc, you’re equipping your small business with the enterprise-grade security that larger corporations invest heavily in. For a robust defense against cyber threats, book a free consultation with SysArc today. 

Your business deserves to be protected against threats.