How do you define managed service provider?

An IT Managed Service Provider is a company that assists organizations with the IT infrastructure, maintenance and other technical assistance, along with handling end-user systems, remotely. Offering services such as technology auditing, remote desktop support, application managed services, among others, IT MSPs ensure business continuity that is key to improving business performance. Unlike outsourcing, MSPs take a holistic approach in offering technology services that meet excellence.

How different is Break/Fix services from Managed IT services?

These are the two leading models in the area of IT business support. Break/Fix method is the process of offering IT service support through a fee-for-service model. Under this model, the client is serviced on demand and billed only for that specific service received. Whereas, Managed IT Services refer to the shared responsibility pertaining to an organization’s entire IT ecosystem. Unlike on-demand assistance in break/fix service, MSPs work off-premise to keep the client’s systems and networks well maintained, monitored, secured and updated on time well before the need arises.

Why do businesses need Managed IT Services?

Wide range of services is the prime reason that is driving the IT businesses towards Managed IT Services. Owing to the rising demands and pace of releases, organizations are taking a closer approach to maintenance and monitoring. This is when the IT operations demand increased efficiency, improved dependability, enhanced security and compliance, advanced access to emerging technologies, predictable pricing and more. MSPs take care of these aspects as a shared responsibility taking up some part of the organization's maintenance and operational burden. These advantages make Managed IT Services the businesses’ choice.

Who needs Managed IT Services? SMBs or Large Enterprises?

Managed Services applies to all businesses looking for IT support. From startups to multinational companies, the Managed IT Services have become the need of the hour for almost every enterprise. In the wake of growing cloud adoption, the IT MSPs are finding relevance among SMBs who often refrain from spending on complex assets and critical storage maintenance. Moreover, staying updated to the changing technology trends and security updates is often a serious challenge that most companies face. MSPs take care of this. So, MSPs work for every organization, irrespective of their size.

How do I choose the right MSP?

Choosing one from the widely available options of the MSPs for Microsoft Cloud Solutions in the USA market is not an easy task. But as a common strategy, finding a right MSP begins with self-assessment including evaluation of existing gaps, improvement areas, technology usage and overall IT posture. Once you do this, you will be clear of what exactly you want. Then comes the point of finding a partner that exactly fits your requirement followed by an assessment of their portfolio and market presence. Communication Square is one of the early adopters of Managed Services in the US IT industry.

What is the difference between Managed services and outsourcing?

Managed services and outsourcing share commonalities but are different in offering and the approach. Experts in both the areas provide you the needed technology and IT infrastructure support. While a consultant service ends with the implementation of a specific requirement, an MSP helps your company’s IT for a long-term improving your organization’s overall IT posture. While an IT consultant lays down the path for effective utilization of IT, an MSP proactively manages and operates the client’s IT infrastructure and end-user systems. While IT Consulting has more to do with advice, managed services deal with the implementation required to run a specific application or a service.

Microsoft Managed Services Plans for U.S. Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

Unlock a world of productivity, efficiency, and security for your U.S. small to medium-sized business with our tailored Microsoft Managed Services plans.

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The SMB Challenge: Navigating Productivity, Security, Support, and Compliance

For SMBs, establishing a robust IT infrastructure is not just about technology—it's about enhancing productivity, securing your operations, supporting your growth, and ensuring compliance in a complex regulatory environment. The statistics are clear:

43% of cyber-attacks target small businesses, impacting productivity and operations.

Adopting modern productivity tools can increase business efficiency by up to 30%, but many SMBs struggle with implementation and support.

SMBs often lack the resources for comprehensive IT support, making them vulnerable to operational inefficiencies and reduced productivity.

Compliance with regulations like GDPR or HIPAA can be daunting, with violations leading to significant financial penalties.

Why Choose Our Services?

Enhanced Productivity

Leverage the latest Microsoft tools and applications to boost your team's productivity and collaboration.

Proactive Security

Stay ahead of threats with our proactive approach to cybersecurity, safeguarding your business around the clock.

Strategic Support

Tailored specifically for SMBs, our support ensures your IT infrastructure propels your business forward.

Compliance Confidence

With our guidance, navigating the complex landscape of regulatory compliance becomes simpler and more reliable.

MONTHLY PLANS - Service Tiers Explained

Package Comparison Table

Features	BASIC $20/User/month	Standard $30/User/month	PREMIUM $50/User/month
Ideal for	Start-ups & small businesses needing essential tools	Growing businesses needing enhanced productivity and security	Businesses needing advanced productivity, security, and comprehensive IT management (HIPAA Compliant)
Productivity Applications	✔ Web & mobile Office apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)	✔ Web & mobile apps ✔ Desktop Office apps	✔ Web & mobile apps ✔ Desktop Office apps ✔ Advanced productivity tools
Professional Email	✔ Custom domain email ✔ 50 GB mailbox per user	✔ Same as Basic	✔ Same as Basic
Cloud Storage & Sharing	✔ 1 TB OneDrive storage per user	✔ Same as Basic	✔ Same as Basic
Password Management	✔ NordPass Business - Secure password storage - Password sharing - Multi-factor authentication (MFA)	✔ Same as Basic	✔ Same as Basic
Security Features	✔ Basic Security - Anti-malware protection - Email spam filtering - Basic firewall settings	✔ Enhanced Security - Includes Basic Security - Advanced threat protection - Data encryption	✔ Advanced Security - Includes Enhanced Security - Microsoft Defender for Office 365 - Microsoft Defender for Business - Advanced threat analytics - Conditional Access policies
Device Management	✔ Basic Device Management - Manual device setup - Basic device policies	✔ Enhanced Device Management - Mobile Device Management (MDM) - Enforce security policies - Remote configuration	✔ Comprehensive Device Management - Includes Enhanced Device Management - Microsoft Intune - Remote wipe capabilities - Advanced policy enforcement
Compliance & Protection	✔ Basic Compliance - Standard data protection - Basic auditing and reporting	✔ Enhanced Compliance - Includes Basic Compliance - Data Loss Prevention (DLP) policies - Self-Service Password Reset - Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)	✔ Advanced Compliance - Includes Enhanced Compliance - DLP across email and files - Information Protection and governance - eDiscovery and content search - HIPAA Compliance Assistance
Support	✔ Basic Support - Business hours - Email and chat support	✔ Standard Support - Extended hours - Remote assistance	✔ Premium Support - 24/7 availability - Dedicated account manager - Proactive monitoring

Why Communication Square for Microsoft Managed Services for SMBs?

We're not just a service provider; we are your strategic ally in the realm of Microsoft Managed Services for SMBs. Our expertise spans a broad spectrum:

Microsoft Managed Service Provider: We offer comprehensive services including Microsoft 365 Managed Services and Azure Managed Services to enhance productivity and security.
Expertise in SMB Solutions: Tailored services that meet the unique needs of small and medium-sized businesses, focusing on productivity and growth.
Azure Cloud Managed Services: As premier Azure Managed Service Providers, we ensure you make the most of your Microsoft investments.
Compliance Assurance: We help you navigate and meet regulatory requirements like HIPAA and GDPR.
Dedicated Support: Our team of certified professionals is dedicated to your success, providing support every step of the way.

Our Credentials

Top Microsoft Managed Services for SMBs Solutions Partner
Microsoft Co-Sell Ready Partner
Microsoft Direct CSP (Cloud Solutions Provider)
7 million+ Cloud Seats Sold
Fast-Track Enabled Microsoft Partner

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Microsoft Managed Services for SMBs FAQs

What are Microsoft Managed Services Plans?

Our Microsoft Managed Services Plans provide comprehensive IT solutions tailored for SMBs, combining Microsoft licenses, third-party applications, and dedicated support to enhance your productivity and security—all under one roof. Microsoft Managed Services Plans provide comprehensive IT management, including monitoring, support, security, and device management. Learn more in our overview on What Our IT Managed Services Do and explore industry-specific solutions in Managed IT Services for Utilities.

How do these plans improve my team's productivity?

Our plans include the latest Microsoft productivity tools like Office 365 applications, Microsoft Teams, and advanced collaboration features. These tools enable seamless communication, collaboration, and workflow efficiency across your organization. Discover valuable insights in our 14 Tips to Improve Productivity with OneNote and effective methods of Managing Microsoft Teams Notifications.

What security services are included in these plans?

They secure user identities and access within your organization, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and enhancing overall security posture. For a deeper understanding, see the comparison MSP vs MSSP - What's the Difference?.

What does Device Management entail?

Depending on the plan, services range from basic security features like anti-malware protection and spam filtering to advanced security with Microsoft Defender for Office 365, advanced threat analytics, and conditional access policies to protect your business from cyber threats. See practical device management insights in our article Managing Content Sprawl in Microsoft Teams.

How does Device Management benefit my business?

Device Management ensures all your company devices are secure, compliant, and optimized for performance. Advanced plans offer features like remote wipe capabilities and comprehensive policy enforcement, reducing risks and administrative overhead. Read more about benefits in our MSP Tools by Communication Square article.

Can these services help with regulatory compliance like HIPAA?

Yes, our Premium Plan includes advanced compliance tools and assistance with regulations like HIPAA and GDPR, helping you navigate the complexities of compliance confidently and avoid potential penalties. Learn more about enterprise-level support in our blog on Enterprise Support Plan.

How do the productivity tools enhance collaboration within my team?

Our plans provide access to Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and other collaboration tools that enable real-time communication, file sharing, and collaborative workspaces, improving team efficiency and project management. Explore our comparative insights in Teams Live Event vs Teams Meeting and Universal Print Integration with OneDrive.

What kind of support can I expect with these plans?

We offer different levels of support based on the plan:

Basic Plan: Standard support during business hours.
Standard Plan: Priority support with extended hours and remote assistance.
Premium Plan: Premium 24/7 support with a dedicated account manager and proactive system monitoring.

For details, read about our support approach in the Enterprise Support Plan.

Can I customize my plan with additional services?

Absolutely! We offer a range of add-on services like Windows Virtual Desktop, advanced backups, phone systems integrated with Microsoft Teams, digital signatures, and Microsoft Copilot to tailor your IT environment to your specific needs. See our guide 10 Reasons Why You Need a Managed Services Provider to understand customization advantages.

Is training provided for the new tools and features?

Yes, we provide training and resources to help your team get the most out of the new tools and features included in your plan, ensuring a smooth transition and maximizing productivity. Comprehensive training is included to ensure your team effectively utilizes the latest tools, such as those featured in our Microsoft Educational Solution Case Study.

How do I get started with a Microsoft Managed Services Plan?

Simply schedule a meeting with us to discuss your needs. We'll help you select the right plan and guide you through the implementation process, including setup, training, and ongoing support. Explore our guide on Migrating Azure Resources from One Subscription to Another to learn more about seamless transitions.

What is Microsoft Copilot, and how can it benefit my business?

Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered assistant integrated into Microsoft 365 apps that enhances productivity by offering intelligent suggestions, automating routine tasks, and helping with drafting content, scheduling, and data analysis. See practical examples of its use in our article Automation in Project Management.

Do these plans include Microsoft 365 licenses?

Yes, all necessary Microsoft 365 licenses are included in our plans, providing you with a seamless and cost-effective solution for your productivity and security needs. For license insights, read our guide on Microsoft for Education.

How secure is my data with these services?

We prioritize data security with advanced protection measures, including encryption, threat detection, and compliance tools. Our services are designed to safeguard your data against unauthorized access and cyber threats. Read our detailed analysis in Cloud vs Local Storage and practical backup strategies in 6 Ways to Backup Microsoft Teams.

Can I upgrade my plan as my business grows?

Yes, our services are scalable. You can upgrade or customize your plan at any time to accommodate your growing needs and ensure you continue to have the right tools and support. Discover scalability benefits in Managed IT Services for Utilities.

Why is investing in productivity tools important for my SMB?

Investing in modern productivity tools enhances efficiency, collaboration, and communication within your team, leading to better business outcomes, competitive advantage, and growth. Gain practical insights by exploring our blog 10 Reasons Why You Need a Managed Services Provider.

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