What Does an AWS Managed Services Provider Do?

Why should you use a managed service for AWS?

An AWS Managed Services Provider (MSP) is a company that provides various services to help organizations manage their Amazon Web Services (AWS) environment. These services can include provisioning, monitoring and security.

MSPs can help organizations with all aspects of their AWS environment, from initial setup to ongoing management. They can also provide expert guidance on best practices for AWS, including architecture design, cost optimization and (again) security.

By working with an AWS partner, you can transition to the AWS cloud or complete an AWS migration without having to redirect your internal team. Your AWS managed service provider can deploy, manage and monitor your cloud platform and help you make the most of your cloud services.

What are the key benefits of using an AWS managed services provider?

There are many benefits to using an AWS managed services provider. While many are similar to the benefits of using an MSP altogether, some relate to the complexity of the AWS cloud platform and the benefits of AWS partnership.

1. Increased Efficiency. MSPs can help organizations optimize their AWS environment for maximum efficiency. They can also help troubleshoot and resolve any issues that may arise. AWS environments can be difficult to use; they have a very high barrier to entry in terms of raw technical skills. An MSP can ease this transition.
2. Cost Savings. MSPs can help organizations save money on their AWS environment by providing cost-effective solutions. AWS solutions, in particular, can easily become money sinks. Because their costs are relative to the resources used, they can become unwieldy over time if they aren’t cost-optimized.
3. Enhanced Security. MSPs can help organizations secure their AWS environment and protect data with robust security measures. AWS environments are exposed to threats because of their cloud-based, always-on nature, but by the same token, their advanced resources make them exceptionally strong and well-fortified in the hands of an expert.
4. Expert Guidance. MSPs can provide expert guidance on best practices for using AWS, including (as noted) architecture design, cost optimization and security. AWS is a very advanced platform that frequently requires expert consultancy and guidance; with an MSP, you create a partnership that will last as long as your AWS service usage.

In short, an MSP helps you make the most out of your AWS solution. AWS deployments are advanced – you may not be able to leverage them to their fullest extent without the help of an experienced professional.

What tasks does an AWS managed services provider handle?

An AWS managed services provider can handle a wide variety of tasks, from initial set up to on-going management. They can also provide expert guidance and consultancy on best practices for using AWS.

Some of the specific tasks that an MSP can handle include:

1. Migration. An MSP can help you provision your AWS environment, meaning they can help you set it up and configure it according to your needs. With the migration acceleration program (MAP), they can make provisioning, migration and deployment even faster.
2. Monitoring. An MSP can help you monitor your AWS environment for performance and security issues. They can also provide you with tools and resources to help you troubleshoot any problems that may arise.
3. Security. An MSP can help you secure your AWS environment and protect your data with robust security measures.

But every MSP is different. You can work with your Amazon managed services provider to find out more about what they can provide your organization – and the custom services that your company may need.

How do you find the right AWS managed services provider?

What should you look for when finding an AWS MSP?

There are a few key factors to consider when finding an AWS MSP:

1. Experience. Make sure you find an MSP with experience in managing AWS environments. They should have a good understanding of the platform and how to optimize it for your organization’s needs.
2. Services. Not all MSPs offer the same services. Make sure you find an MSP that offers the specific services you need for your AWS environment. Ideally, you want an MSP who understands your organization, its industry and the platforms that you want to use.
3. Cost. Make sure you understand the cost structure of the MSP you’re considering. AWS environments can be expensive, so it’s important to find an MSP that can provide cost-effective solutions.
4. Security. This is critical, as AWS environments are exposed to threats when they aren’t properly configured. They must be architected to be secure from the start.

And, of course, there are some factors that are always the same when looking for a good managed services provider. You should find a provider who provides 24/7 monitoring and support, who can promise you the uptime you need and who meshes well with your organization. Ultimately, your provider is going to be a partner who works closely with your internal staff – make sure the relationship is a smooth one.

Conclusion: working with Amazon managed services providers

AWS is a powerful, versatile platform – but it’s also complex and can become time-consuming and expensive when not properly managed. An MSP can help you make the most out of your AWS environment by providing expert guidance, optimization strategies and ongoing management.

When finding an MSP, look for one with experience in managing AWS environments – and those who can provide your organization with expert-level suggestions. Your MSP will help you grow your AWS environment with your business; you need one that can look to the future.

At Red River, we have expert AWS technicians who can help you with all levels of your AWS transformation and implementation. Contact us today to find out more.

FAQs

What is MSP for Amazon?

An MSP is a managed services provider – meaning, it’s a company that provides expert guidance and support. Amazon’s AWS has expert partners who can provide MSP services.

What is a cloud MSP?

A cloud MSP is a managed services provider that specializes in the cloud. A cloud MSP can help you with all aspects of your cloud transformation, from migrating to the cloud to optimizing your use.

What is AWS SSP?

AWS SSP is Amazon’s managed services provider program. It’s designed to help you find the right MSP for your AWS needs. An Amazon partner will be better equipped to help you with AWS needs.