One reason that companies utilize the services of a managed service provider is because they don\u2019t have the skills or physical tools necessary to get the job done themselves. When you outsource to a company who has expertise, you can feel confident knowing that your business is in good hands. However, part of that assurance comes from not only those experts, but the equipment and gear they are using to best serve your company\u2019s data infrastructure. \u00a0While you always have the option of buying the equipment yourself, \u00a0most providers give you the option of renting this gear instead.<\/p>\n
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Here\u2019s why that\u2019s something you\u2019ll want to consider:<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Same Service, No Permanent Commitment<\/b><\/p>\n You can rent a house, a car, a bicycle, or even a DVD. Why does one choose to rent these items as opposed to buying them? Well, \u00a0these items generally depreciate in value you moment you buy them, so renting them is often a safer option.<\/span><\/p>\n The same goes for renting hardware from your provider. Server lifecycles can depreciate in value in just a few years. Because new technology is always coming out, the hardware \u00a0you\u2019re currently using might be completely obsolete before you know it. Therefore, leasing your hardware for however long you need it (or until the next upgraded version comes out) will save you a lot of money and a lot of headache in the long run.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What Are You Actually Leasing?<\/b><\/p>\n Whatever hardware you need that is essential to the efficient operation of your server or service, can usually be provided by your MSP. Some examples of hardware you might rent out include routers, firewalls, switches, and cabling. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Insuring the Equipment with an SLA<\/b><\/p>\n It\u2019s never a good idea to rent something without some kind of insurance or agreement. Your MSP needs to be sure you don\u2019t damage their equipment, and you need to be sure you\u2019re not charged for problems that weren\u2019t caused by you. This is why your managed hosting server provider uses something called a Service Level Agreement, to make sure you and they both are protected. Your SLA will outline all the \u201cwhat-if\u2019s\u201d so you can rent hardware without a worry.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n