Managed service provider (MSP)

A managed service provider is an outside company that takes ongoing responsibility for some or all of an organization's IT systems, support and security for a recurring fee.

Instead of calling a technician only when something breaks, an MSP proactively looks after your technology. Typical services include help desk support, patching, backups, network management, Microsoft 365 administration, security monitoring and planning for future upgrades. Work is usually covered by a monthly agreement with defined service levels.

For Alberta organizations with five to a few hundred staff, an MSP can provide the breadth of an in-house IT department without the cost of hiring several specialists. It also means someone is accountable for keeping systems current and secure, which matters for cyber insurance applications and privacy obligations under PIPA.

Practical tip: read the service agreement carefully. Know exactly what is included, what is billed extra, how quickly the provider responds to urgent issues and who owns your passwords and documentation. A good MSP will give you full administrative access and records if you ever decide to leave.