Back to blog

Remote IT Support Pros and Cons

At some point, most businesses will need to make a decision about how to handle the information technology (IT) needs of the business. These needs can evolve based on the size, scope, and level of growth that a business experiences at a certain stage.

Regardless of where your organization stands, investing in the right level of IT support can be a game-changer. Whether you need remote monitoring services, cybersecurity protocols, or database management, working with IT professionals can take you where you need to go.

In this post, we’ll recap the benefits of remote IT support and contrast this service with more traditional options, like onsite IT support.

What is Remote IT Support?

Remote IT support is a process that involves transferring management of your IT network, systems, access points, and other digital channels to a remotely based specialist. In many instances, remote IT support takes place through a managed services provider, or MSP.

Onsite Versus Remote IT Support

In contrast to remote IT support, onsite support involves hiring IT professionals to work in a physical location that’s associated with your business or organization. These hired employees provide physical IT support and offer in-person help.

Although onsite IT support specialists are “on the job” when they’re at work, there are fewer 24/7 monitoring options available with onsite support. That’s because these individuals, who are usually full-time employees at a company, work traditional business hours. 

Many small to midsize businesses begin with onsite support, which means putting an IT specialist on the payroll. While this can offer immediate resolutions and fixed costs, there are limitations and drawbacks to only working with an onsite representative.

Remote IT Support Benefits

The rise of flexible managed services providers (MSPs) has allowed many business leaders to see and capitalize on the benefits of remote support specialists. While different in nature, a remote IT support model provides  options that aren’t possible with onsite limitations. 

If you’re considering how remote IT support could help with tackling the needs or challenges of your business, check out these perks.

Fixed Costs

Small and midsize businesses have plenty to worry about when it comes to rising prices and the bottom line. With remote IT support, predictable plan models and established contracts can keep tech costs from spiraling out of hand.

Most importantly, with this investment comes peace of mind and trust. When you work with a qualified IT service provider, you ultimately know that you’re protected against unexpected IT threats or issues.

Expert IT Help

There are a lot of mediocre and even untrained IT specialists out there. When it’s time to choose a qualified provider, you need an IT team that you can trust for any size issue or burden. From regular system maintenance to 24/7 monitoring, remote IT support can offer the level of expertise you need to ensure your systems are running at maximum efficiency.

Help During Non-Business Hours

One of the most obvious perks of using remote IT support is that you’re able to access the help of a skilled technician around the clock. This is especially important for online-based businesses whose customers may still be active, even after traditional business hours.

Better than a Standard Help Desk

The standard IT help desk model has served its purpose in providing both internal and external users tech support when they need it. But remote IT support often goes beyond that to offer expanded skills, services, and maintenance at all times of the day. 

Since systems and networks are more complex than ever before, a traditional “IT ticket” may no longer be the best fit to serve your team or customers. When you want quality without compromising on service, remote IT support paves the way forward.

How to Take Advantage of Remote IT Support

To make the most of your relationship with a remote IT support team, be sure to evaluate what you currently need and what your expectations are. This can help you conduct research, interview vendors, and find the right provider.

Before you form a partnership, ask important questions related to costs, availability, cybersecurity, and privacy measures. In today’s modern age, you simply can’t afford to leave these things to chance. Choose a remote IT support specialist that guarantees results while meeting your basic goals.

 

Concluding Thoughts

Whether you need to alleviate strain on internal resources, or you simply want to trust your IT infrastructure to a knowledgeable team of experts, remote IT support could be a step in the right direction. As your business grows, you may need to pivot, delegate, and outsource.

Reach out to MicroTech Systems today to learn more about our remote IT support packages. We’ll help you reap the benefits of having this incredible layer of security added to your business model.

Download the Tip Sheet: What Values to Look for When Choosing a Managed Service Provider