What is managed connectivity?
Managed Connectivity delivers outsourcing of all the elements of network connectivity services as it relates to a business. Managed Connectivity Services Providers typically bundle the hardware, services agreements and network support into a single contract. Based on the needs of each client, this can include wide area network (WAN) setup and connections, MPLS, SD-WAN, SD-Security, and more.
In most cases, Managed Connectivity is bundled into one monthly bill so customers don't have to deal with contracts to multiple internet providers, hardware vendors and support services. In addition, Managed Connectivity almost always comes with strong SLA's and guarantees on network uptime.
Maintaining a robust network assures that businesses don't lose productivity as a result of network issues. In particular when a business has multiple branches or remote users, it's essential to keep information moving. With Managed Connectivity Services, a business can literally outsource everything, from their network edge, to access to the internet and the cloud, to one provider. Knowing that there's a professional service dedicated to maintaining the business connectivity provides peace of mind to owners, executives and IT staff.
What are the big benefits of using a managed connectivity provider?
1. Simplicity: Especially if you operate a multi-site business, it can be overwhelming to manage the vast array of hardware and network services decisions, let alone develop the technical competency to implement a robust network. A Managed Connectivity Provider makes it easy to get access to the latest technology and upgrades because they handle all of the installation and services contracts. The best providers will send technicians at your locations for installation and support.
2. Network Reliability: A properly configured network with advanced features such as Same IP Failover can guarantee 100% uptime of your data, voice and application services. A Managed Connectivity Services Provider will monitor and maintain all of your services and deliver much higher uptime and much higher performance than you can typically do yourself.
3. Cost Efficiency: With Managed Connectivity Services businesses can often save 20-30% on the overall cost of their network and internet services. Moving from traditional MPLS systems to SD-WAN, leveraging expert buying of internet services and avoiding fixed labor costs for network management all help save money without sacrificing results.
Which businesses can benefit from managed connectivity?
Any business that relies on the internet to get work done can benefit from Managed Connectivity. A single location can see improved uptime for data and voice which helps avoid lost productivity.
In the case of multi-national companies, Managed Connectivity offers a tremendous value in understanding the nuances of finding appropriate services providers in each different country, procuring the right hardware and in ensuring compliance to local security policies.
Multi-location businesses or companies with many remote workers will see even more benefit. It can be especially valuable to have a Managed Connectivity Services Provider that has developed a strong knowledge of the different internet services providers in various regions.
Alternatives to managed connectivity
Getting a robust and efficient network either means working with a service provider, or doing it on your own. If your business has the staff and technical competency to evaluate and procure hardware, install and configure it as well as negotiate multiple internet services contracts, you might be successful in building out a highly reliable network. Most companies, even at larger sizes, don't want to invest at the level required to manage all of this in-house.
The process of getting started with managed connectivity
Upon selecting a Managed Connectivity Provider, you can typically expect a quick turnaround getting your enhanced networking and services implemented. The process will normally involve: Site Evaluation, Hardware Determination, Provisioning/Installation, Services Contracting, Network Configuration, and Monitoring & Support.
Capcon Networks offers the largest portfolio of internet/connectivity carriers (more than 500), which means you'll have coverage options anywhere your business has locations. We also provide onsite installation and technical service with a 100% Guaranteed Uptime SLA.