The modern digital landscape is constantly evolving. As a result, businesses are increasingly turning to outsourcing as a strategic solution. This is done to help them meet their IT needs efficiently and cost-effectively.
Outsourced IT solutions and services have become a common practice. It allows companies to focus on their core competencies while leveraging specialised expertise and cutting-edge technology.
The outsourced IT support market is worth an estimated $617.69 billion in 2024 with an expected growth of $806.53 billion by 2029.
But just what are the most commonly outsourced IT services, and why are businesses opting for this approach? Keep reading to explore these key services below.
What Are the Most Common Outsourced IT Support Services?
The answer to the question: “What are the most common outsourced IT services?” is a multifaceted one.
Behind every successful business lies a network of tools and interfaces all working together. However, some businesses may not have the manpower or the budgeting available to support a full in-house team.
This is where the benefits of outsourced IT support can come in handy. Trained outsourcing specialists can handle many aspects of IT management, such as network monitoring, cybersecurity, and software development. This allows businesses to focus on their core operations.
Outsourcing can be a cost-effective solution, as businesses only pay for the services they need when they need them. Here are some of the most common outsourced IT services your business can utilise.
Help Desk Support
Help desk support is one of the most prevalent outsourced IT services. It involves providing technical assistance to end-users facing hardware, software, or other IT-related issues.
Outsourcing IT support allows your businesses to access specialised expertise and resources. This ensures that users receive prompt and effective support. It also helps organisations reduce costs associated with maintaining an in-house support team and infrastructure.
Additionally, outsourcing help desk support can enhance overall IT efficiency. In doing so, it allows businesses to focus on their core competencies while leaving the IT support management to experienced professionals.
Network Security
Another aspect of “what are the most commonly outsourced IT services” is network security. This is a critical aspect of IT infrastructure. It encompasses measures to protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data and resources.
Network security involves the implementation of technologies, processes, and policies. They act as safeguards to prevent unauthorised access, misuse, or modification of network assets. These measures include aspects such as:
- Firewalls
- Intrusion detection
- Prevention systems
- Mobile device management
- Virtual private networks (VPNs)
- Privileged access management
- Access control mechanisms
These tools work together to detect and mitigate threats such as malware, ransomware, and unauthorised access attempts.
Additionally, network security involves regular monitoring and auditing of network activity. This helps to identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with security policies and regulations to increase data protection.
Data Backup and Recovery
As much as 67% of data loss is due to system failure or hard drive crashes while 14% is attributed to human error. Data backup and recovery are crucial for protecting your information. It involves making copies of your data to prevent loss.
If your original data is lost or damaged, you can restore it from the backup. Backup copies are often stored on separate devices or in the cloud. Recovery is the process of restoring data from backups.
It’s important to regularly back up your data to avoid losing important information. Having a reliable backup and recovery plan through outsourced IT security can help you recover quickly from data loss due to accidents, disasters, or cyberattacks.
Cloud Services
Cloud services are internet-based computing services. They allow organisations to store, manage, and process data on remote servers, rather than on computers or local servers. This means you can access your data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection.
Cloud services offer scalability, so you can easily adjust storage and computing resources as your business needs change. They also provide reliability and security, with data backups and encryption.
Common cloud services include online storage, data backup, and software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications. By 2027, over 50% of industry cloud platforms will be adopted by organisations. Therefore, outsourcing IT cloud services offers flexibility, efficiency, and cost savings compared to traditional on-premises solutions.
IT Consulting
Outsourcing IT consulting involves providing expert advice and guidance on IT-related issues and decisions. Consultants assess an organisation’s IT infrastructure, systems, and processes to identify areas for improvement. They then recommend solutions and strategies to help achieve the organisation’s goals.
These IT consultants can also assist with implementing new technologies, upgrading systems, and optimising IT operations. Their goal is to help businesses use technology effectively to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve their objectives.
IT consulting services can range from strategic planning and project management to technical support and training. This helps organisations make informed decisions and maximise the value of their IT investments.
Managed IT Services
Adding to the list of “What are the most common outsourced IT services?” is Managed IT Services. This refers to the practice of outsourcing IT management responsibilities and functions to a third-party provider. These services can include monitoring, maintaining, and managing IT infrastructure and systems.
By outsourcing these tasks, businesses can access specialised expertise and resources without the need to hire and manage an in-house IT team. Managed Services providers often offer proactive monitoring and maintenance, which can help prevent IT issues before they occur.
This approach can improve the overall reliability and performance of IT systems. Utilising Managed Services can help businesses reduce IT costs and focus on their core operations for increased efficiency and productivity.
Network Management
When it comes to “What are the most commonly outsourced IT services?” network management is also vital. It involves overseeing the operation and maintenance of a computer network. This includes tasks such as monitoring network performance, ensuring network security, and troubleshooting issues.
Network managers are responsible for ensuring that the network meets the organisation’s needs and operates efficiently. They may use specialised software tools to monitor network activity and diagnose problems. Network management also involves planning for future growth and expansion of the network.
By effectively managing the network, organisations can ensure that their IT infrastructure supports their business goals and operates smoothly. Proper network management is essential for maintaining a reliable and secure network.
Cybersecurity Services
Every year in the U.S., cyberattacks cause billions of dollars in losses. Yet a 2023 report from ISACA found that 71% of organisations have unfilled cybersecurity positions. This highlights a significant gap in the industry’s ability to address and prevent these threats.
Outsourced cybersecurity services focus on protecting computers, servers, networks, and data from cyber threats. These services include measures such as installing firewalls and antivirus software. They also involve implementing security policies and conducting security audits.
The main goal is to prevent unauthorised access, data breaches, and other cyber attacks. Cybersecurity services are essential for safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of data in vulnerable industries.
Software Development
Software development is the process of creating computer programs or applications. It involves designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software to meet specific requirements.
Developers use programming languages like Java, C++, or Python to write code that instructs the computer to perform certain tasks. They also use development tools and frameworks to streamline the process and ensure the software functions correctly.
Software development can be customised for different purposes. This includes elements such as:
- Business applications
- Mobile apps
- Video games
- Embedded systems
- Web applications
It requires collaboration between developers, designers, and project managers to ensure the final product meets the needs of users. Outsourcing software development lets businesses access specialised expertise and resources without the need to hire and manage an in-house team.
Database Management
Database management involves organising and storing data in a structured manner. This ensures easy access, retrieval, and manipulation of data. It includes creating, updating, and managing databases to meet the needs of an organisation.
Outsourced database managers use specialised software to store data securely and efficiently. They also ensure that databases are backed up regularly to prevent data loss. It’s pivotal for the success of modern organisations that are reliant on data-driven decision-making.
Effective database management is essential for businesses. It allows them to make informed decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information. It also helps improve efficiency by allowing for quick access to relevant data.
Web Development and Design
Web development and design pertains to the process of creating websites. These websites must be visually appealing, functional, and user-friendly. It includes designing the layout, color scheme, and overall look of the website.
Web developers use programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build the website’s structure and functionality. They also use design software and tools to create graphics and other visual elements.
Modern-day websites must also meet the needs of its users. Websites need to be responsive. This means they display correctly on a variety of devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
Outsourcing web development and design can be a strategic decision for businesses. It’s especially advantageous for those looking to enhance their online presence and reach their target audience more effectively.
Mobile App Development
In today’s app-based mobile optimised world, mobile app development is more beneficial than ever. Creating software applications that run on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. It includes designing, coding, testing, and releasing apps for iOS and Android platforms to create apps that are user-friendly, functional, and visually appealing.
Developers use development tools and frameworks to streamline the process. They also use special programming languages to build mobile apps.
Some languages of note include:
- Java
- Kotlin
- Swift
- React Native
- Flutter
Outsourcing mobile app development can offer several benefits such as accessing specialised expertise, reducing costs, and saving time. External providers can also bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table. This helps businesses create innovative and effective mobile apps.
Disaster Recovery Planning
Businesses must always be prepared for unforeseen events and potential disruptions to their IT infrastructure. That’s where disaster recovery planning comes into play. It involves creating strategies to recover and restore IT systems and data after a disaster.
Businesses can hire external providers to help develop and implement their disaster recovery strategies. Outsourcing this service can bring several benefits. This includes accessing specialised expertise and experience in disaster recovery planning.
External providers can also provide additional resources and technologies that may not be available in-house. For instance, the use of redundant data centers to back up data.
IT Infrastructure Management
In the business world, IT infrastructure management is key. This aspect means overseeing the entire IT environment of an organisation. It includes components like servers, storage, networking, and software.
These IT support services include tasks such as monitoring performance and managing security. They also ensure the availability of necessary IT resources.
Outsourced IT managers are responsible for planning, implementing, and maintaining IT systems. They work painstakingly to meet the needs of the organisation. They work to optimise IT infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
IT infrastructure management involves ensuring compliance with regulations and best practices. Effective IT infrastructure management ensures an organisation’s IT systems’ reliability, security, and performance.
Remote Monitoring and Management
Remote monitoring and management (RMM) is a specific type of outsourced IT service. It entails monitoring and managing IT systems remotely. This includes servers, desktops, mobile devices, and network devices.
RMM tools are used to monitor the health and performance of IT systems. They also detect issues and perform maintenance tasks. RMM providers can remotely access and manage IT systems.
This remote access allows them to troubleshoot problems and perform updates without being on-site. This approach can improve efficiency and reduce downtime. Any issues can be addressed quickly.
RMM also enables proactive maintenance, which helps prevent problems before they occur. RMM is essential for maintaining the stability and security of IT systems.
Elevate Your IT Support in Yorkshire with Hamilton Group Ltd
Now that you understand the answer to the question “What are the most commonly outsourced IT services?” you can help your business thrive. With outsourced IT support services, you don’t have to do it all on your own.
Hamilton Technology Systems is here for you. If you’re looking to save time and money with outsourced IT, we can help. We can handle everything from cyber security to cloud migration, data backup and recovery, and more.
Ready to discuss your business’s local IT support needs?
Schedule a free IT support consultation today.
Simply call us on 01423 438953, fill out our form or book an appointment today!
