The Challenges of IoT and How MSPs Can Adapt

The Internet-of-Things (IoT) has become one of the decade’s most notable tech transformations. What is IoT exactly and what does it mean for MSPs?

IoT is a term to describe a world where a range of things – from security cameras to remote HVAC control systems – all communicate and exchange data over the internet. This presents a huge opportunity for MSPs to help companies and industries build the right cloud infrastructure.  While this seems like a field worth exploring, it does present its challenges.

Consider some of these challenges and how MSPs can adapt.

1) Security

While the idea of connecting everything is a progressive idea, it does leave room for vulnerabilities.  Hackers or anyone with malicious intent can find numerous loopholes in this broad network to carry out data breaches and cyber-attacks which result in major security issues. The push for network performance over security, leave such industries at risk.

How can MSPs help their clients? The first thing they can do is examine whether security is being built from the ground-up, starting by implementing lines of defense such as firewalls, intrusion detection software, or using some type of antivirus program. Having this discussion and a plan for the future will ensure that their transition to IoT is secure.

2) Data Management

As IoT is quickly becoming a popular trend for bigger companies, there is the concern of protecting and managing data as it’s moved into a cloud environment. As an MSP, it is your job to ensure your clients that their valuable data can be safely moved and be available 24/7 during this transition.  Fortunately, cloud environments make it very easy and handle data in an effective manner. Secure cloud computing ensures that a company’s data remains accessible and intact in such an environment. As an MSP, it’s important that you remain completely transparent with your clients during the process and implement data backups in case of unforeseen failure. Communication and preparedness will ensure their data is handled the right way and all records remain intact.

3) Compatibility Issues

IoT is growing so fast and in numerous directions, that there are often many different technologies and pieces of software working against each other. This can result in connectivity issues and will require that extra hardware be deployed and different software be implemented. Eventually, some of these technologies will become obsolete, rendering their devices virtually useless. This will be a challenge because your clients will likely require longer lifespans for these devices than the manufacturers may be able to provide, let alone warrantee. It is your responsibility as an MSP to be up to date with the latest technologies, implementing them in a timely manner to ensure that your clients stay ahead of the game.

As you can see, IoT is quickly becoming the way technology and data will be handled in the future. This move presents many challenges but as an MSP, there are several ways you can help your clients prepare and adapt. Though technology will continue to evolve, there are some solid principles you can follow. Understanding your client’s needs, managing and keeping up to date with technology solutions, and communicating every step of the way will allow you to exceed their expectations and ensure continued success.

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