When it comes to defining managed internet, it can mean different things to different people.
A Google search for the term will yield a list of large telecom providers offering ‘Managed Internet’ services. Often a dedicated fiber service with some level of proactive monitoring and guaranteed uptime (Service Level Agreement) with additional services stacked on top.
Not all ‘Managed Internet Services’ are the Same
There is no universal standard as to what features may or may not be included in a managed internet service. The best place to start is by writing down what you want. Do you want peace-of-mind that your connectivity is monitored and there is 24-hour support? Would you reduce time spent on administering your connectivity? Do you need advice on how to optimise the performance of your applications?
An Era of Rising Expectations
For the most part you have been happy with your internet service. Fast forward to 2020 and you may have been one of many businesses experiencing a connectivity nightmare. As things return to a new ‘normal’ in Australia, it is important to remember that the number of connected devices and cloud-based applications will continue to grow. This creates a cumulative demand which can outpace your current bandwidth and/or equipment.
Elements of a Managed Internet Service
- Internet Access – get you connected
- Bandwidth – needs to be suitable for the number of users and types of applications accessing the internet to help you accomplish tasks in a timely manner
- Reliability and Security – features of your contract which minimize downtime and mitigate cybersecurity threats
- Scalability – your internet needs to be fast, secure, and reliable today and into the future so that you can take advantage of new emerging technologies
- Convenience – perhaps is best described as the icing on the cake. It is the people who deliver you managed connectivity or internet solutions. They often work with your IT team to make your day to day business connectivity seamless, saving you time and money.
What Should I do if I am Unhappy With my ‘Managed Internet Service’
Firstly, you need to review the terms of the Service Level Agreement and/or your Managed Services Agreement with your current provider. If you cannot readily find this documentation, contact your internet provider for a copy to review.
Secondly, you may need to decide if your current provider is in breach of terms and conditions or if your original contract(s) do not fulfill your expectations. This may include renegotiating your agreement or finding a new managed service provider which includes:
- Access to a team of experts who can help you solve your connectivity issues and technology implementation
- A dedicated account or technical representative
- Connection type which matches the bandwidth, reliability and budget needs of the business
- Guaranteed uptime, backed by a Service Level Agreement
- 24/7 proactive monitoring and support to ensure issues are resolved ASAP – day or night
Do I Need a ‘Managed Internet Service’
Using a managed internet service is not always the right choice for every business.It really comes down to your specific needs and budget. As a general consideration, you may want to investigate the value of managed internet service further if you have:
- Cloud services
- Remote workforce
- Credit card processing
- Online file sharing
- Connectivity downtime
- Long wait times for account or techissue resolution
