Managed IT services have experienced rapid growth in the last several years. With many benefits to offer SMBs – such as minimizing downtime or delivering customized value-added services – the managed services sector is currently growing at an annual rate of nearly 14%. With the projected growth of cloud and other digital transformations, and the need for better cost efficiencies, managed service providers can look forward to an even more significant role to play. As the year comes to a close and we look forward into 2025, it is important to consider the key trends that will be driving the managed IT services sector.
Managed Cloud Services Trends
The cloud has been available for many years, but the consumer demand for scalability, remote access and flexibility is increasing as the service has become essential for any businesses’ digital transformation. As the complexity of cloud services integration grows, managed cloud service providers who want to remain competitive will offer robust programs for data security, hybrid workflows and integrations.
Most modern companies utilize multiple cloud service providers when developing their infrastructure. Managed service providers in 2025 will take on a critical role in maximizing the hybrid / multi-cloud environments for smaller businesses. They’ll be expected to create safer and more streamlined data flows and optimize user budgets while still delivering expected customizations.
As organizations continue to deploy remote workers and satellite offices, cloud-connected touch points are increased. IoT has become a vital part of IT infrastructure for business in every industry, and as the total number of devices goes up, the need for managed IT services for those IoT systems will increase as well. Managed service providers will be expected to integrate these networks and make sure that everything operates without downtime or security vulnerabilities.
Did You Know? Experts believe there are approximately 13.2 billion devices currently in us, but this number is expected to surpass 35 billion connected devices by 2028.
Managed Security Services Trends
With sophisticated cyberthreats becoming more prolific, the traditional security offerings fall short for many companies. In the near future, these organizations will need to focus on advanced cybersecurity services managed by expert providers.
The contemporary digital landscape renders nearly every device vulnerable and susceptible to cyber-attacks, necessitating true Zero Trust security solutions. Zero Trust emphasizes ongoing verification and need-based access control for all users that goes well beyond strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
In 2025, companies will be required to adapt to the ever-evolving regulatory environment, by guaranteeing that data management practices line up with the most recent standards. Proactive measures, such as routine audits and risk assessments, will be essential for guaranteeing compliance in the dynamic landscape. Managed services providers will have an integral role in helping companies to navigate complicated data protection laws, delivering customized solutions to fulfill specific industry requirements. The growing importance of transparency will push demand for technologies that offer visibility into data handling processes, cultivating a company culture of accountability. Facing ever more sophisticated cyber threats, managed IT solutions will also focus on strong cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive information and earn client trust.
The Evolution of Managed Services AI
In 2025, the usage of AI and machine learning in managed IT services will likely be unprecedented. Not only will these technology tools streamline routine tasks and make processes more accurate, but they will also enhance cybersecurity and workflow customization. AI and ML can proactively track the entire digital asset inventory and identify vulnerabilities before the cybercriminals can take advantage of them. Integrating predictive monitoring and risk mitigation of AI will ensure that managed service providers continue to grow in 2025.
The managed IT services industry should expect a year full of innovation – and customers of managed services providers can expect more support for the evolving digital landscape they are entering.
Alliance IT is a Sarasota based managed services company dedicated to the success of SMBs.
