Keeping your Microsoft platform up-to-date is not just a best practice; it’s essential for security, performance and compliance. However, managing Microsoft platform updates can be a challenging task, often requiring a dedicated team and a significant amount of time and effort. This is where subscription-based Microsoft application managed service providers (AMSPs) can help. In this blog post, we will delve into the benefits of partnering with a subscription-based AMSP to handle your Microsoft platform updates, especially considering Microsoft’s limitations on update pausing.
The Challenge of Microsoft Updates
Microsoft regularly releases updates, including critical security patches, feature enhancements and bug fixes, to maintain the integrity and security of its products. While these updates are necessary, they can sometimes disrupt workflow, cause compatibility issues or require system reboots. To mitigate these challenges, Microsoft allows users to pause or delay updates. However, there are limitations to this flexibility. Microsoft customers can choose to pause updates, but only up to three consecutive updates. After that, updates become mandatory to ensure the continued security and performance of the software.
Benefits of Subscription-Based Microsoft AMSPs
1. Continuous Monitoring and Compliance
Subscription-based AMSPs provide round-the-clock monitoring of your Microsoft ecosystem. They ensure that your systems are always up-to-date with the latest patches, thereby reducing security risks. This proactive approach is crucial, especially when you can only pause updates for a limited time. By staying compliant with Microsoft’s update schedule, you can maintain a secure and reliable environment.
2. Expertise and Efficiency
Managing Microsoft updates can be complex, requiring expertise in various products Dynamics 365, Copilot and Azure. Subscription-based AMSPs specialize in Microsoft technologies and employ experts who are well-versed in the nuances of update management. This expertise translates into efficient and hassle-free updates, minimizing downtime and disruptions.
3. Scalability and Flexibility
Subscription-based models offer scalability to accommodate your evolving needs. Whether you need to scale up or down, AMSPs can adapt their services accordingly. This flexibility is valuable, especially in today’s dynamic business landscape.
4. Cost-Effective Solutions
Hiring and training an in-house team to manage Microsoft updates can be costly and may not be the most efficient use of your resources. Subscription-based AMSPs offer predictable monthly fees, eliminating the need for expensive recruitment, training and infrastructure investment. This cost-effectiveness is particularly appealing for businesses of all sizes.
5. Enhanced Security
Security is paramount in the digital age, and timely updates are your first line of defense against cyber threats. Subscription-based AMSPs prioritize security by ensuring that your systems are always equipped with the latest security patches, reducing the risk of data breaches, malware infections and other cyberattacks.
6. Simplified Compliance Reporting
Many industries have strict compliance requirements, necessitating detailed reporting and documentation of software updates and security measures. Subscription-based AMSPs provide comprehensive reports that help you demonstrate compliance with industry regulations and standards, saving you time and effort.
Managing Microsoft platform updates effectively is crucial for your business’s success. While Microsoft allows limited flexibility in pausing updates, it’s essential to maintain your systems’ security and performance by staying up-to-date. Subscription-based Microsoft application managed service providers offer a cost-effective, efficient and expert-driven solution to navigate the complexities of Microsoft updates. By partnering with a subscription-based AMSP, you can ensure that your Microsoft ecosystem remains secure and compliant.
Contact enVista to learn more about its Microsoft application managed services.
