Common IT Problems and How MSPs Help Solve Them

In an increasingly digitized business world, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) rely more than ever on a stable and secure IT infrastructure. This creates a central role for Managed Service Providers (MSPs): not only do they assist businesses with ongoing IT operations, but they also ensure the stability, security, and efficiency of the entire IT environment through proactive strategies.

IT disruptions often lead to downtime, productivity losses, and, in the worst cases, data loss or reputational damage for SMEs. As an MSP, you can help your clients minimize these risks with structured processes, targeted prevention, and tailored technical solutions.

The goal of this article is to highlight the most common IT challenges faced by SMEs and to demonstrate how MSPs can ensure a resilient and future-proof IT landscape through smart approaches and customized services.

Data Loss and Insufficient Backups 

Problem: Data loss due to hardware failure, human error, or cyberattacks like ransomware is one of the most severe threats faced by SMEs. Many companies lack a reliable backup plan, creating a significant gap in their IT security. 

Solutions: As an MSP, you can ensure maximum data security by implementing automated, regular backups following the proven 3-2-1 rule (3 copies on 2 types of media, with 1 stored offsite). Additionally, hybrid backup models using cloud solutions are highly effective. 

Solutions like Cove Data Protection by N‑able allow seamless integration into your managed services, offering centralized backup management, reliable recovery, and comprehensive IT documentation. Regular recovery tests can also be established as an MSP service to guarantee data availability in critical situations.

Cybersecurity Threats 

Problem: Phishing, ransomware, malware—cybersecurity threats to SMEs are constantly increasing. Without adequate protection, sensitive data and entire business operations are at risk. 

Solution: As an MSP, you can create a holistic cybersecurity strategy that goes beyond traditional security measures. A key aspect is employee training, which you can deliver through awareness programs and simulated phishing campaigns. 

Technically, adopting zero-trust concepts, implementing tiered access rights, and integrating advanced security tools are essential. For example:

• N‑able EDR (Endpoint Detection & Response) for AI-driven protection.
• N‑able MDR (Managed Detection & Response) for 24/7 monitoring and incident response. 

This enables you to provide not just tools, but comprehensive protection as a service.

Network Issues and Slow Internet Connections 

Problem: Unstable networks directly impact your clients’ productivity, especially in hybrid work environments. Poor connectivity hampers communication, cloud access, and overall workflows. 

Solution: Professional network management is a foundation of your service offering. This includes:

• Analysis and optimization of network infrastructure.
• Firmware and hardware updates.
• Real-time monitoring to detect bottlenecks early. 

With tools like N‑central RMM or N‑sight RMM by N‑able, you, as an MSP, can monitor all devices, connections, and performance metrics, enabling you to proactively resolve issues before they escalate.

Outdated Hardware and Software 

Problem: The use of outdated hardware and software poses significant risks for SMEs. These include security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals, incompatibilities with newer systems and applications, and inefficient workflows due to lack of functionality or slower performance. At the same time, operational costs rise due to increased maintenance needs.

Solutions: By conducting regular IT inventories and lifecycle analyses, you can proactively identify modernization requirements. With patch management services, security gaps can be closed quickly and automatically. 

Additionally, you can advise clients on upgrades, cloud migrations, and new technologies as part of a forward-looking IT roadmap or an MSP flat-rate service for IT modernization.

Lack of IT Resources and Expertise 

Problem: Many SMEs face the challenge of having overburdened or non-existent dedicated IT departments. Often, there is a lack of qualified IT professionals, preventing IT issues from being identified and resolved promptly. Additionally, resource shortages can lead to difficulties in maintaining comprehensive IT documentation or failing to perform regular security updates, increasing vulnerabilities to cybercriminals and leading to inefficient workflows and higher remediation efforts over time. 

Solution: This is where your role as a managed service provider truly shines. You act as an external IT department, providing scalable resources and taking over complete IT operations—from support and monitoring to strategic consulting. 

Alternatively, you can support internal teams with targeted training or co-managed IT services, where you share responsibilities. The suite of N‑able solutions is tailored to these scenarios, offering everything your IT teams need regardless of company size.

Compliance and Data Protection 

Problem: Another significant issue for SMEs is compliance and data protection. The complexity of legal requirements in the field of data protection, such as the GDPR, poses substantial challenges for many companies. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in severe penalties. 

Solution: As an MSP, you establish structured data protection concepts for your clients, including:

• Policy implementation
• Automated audits
• Employee training programs

With the right tools, you can also monitor access rights, stored data, and protection measures. This not only ensures your clients meet legal requirements but also positions you as a trusted partner in sensitive areas.

Conclusion 

The IT challenges faced by SMEs are diverse, but this presents a valuable opportunity for MSPs. With standardized yet customizable solutions, you can not only address problems but also future-proof your clients.

Whether it’s backup, cybersecurity, network management, or compliance, using advanced tools from N‑able, combined with a proactive service approach, helps you reduce risks and enhance efficiency. 

The key lies in proactive action, collaborative communication, and continuous improvement. This transforms you from a service provider into a strategic IT partner—a win for your clients and your own business growth.