Definition
An MSP runs IT systems for its customers on an ongoing basis. Unlike project work, the service does not end with a handover: monitoring, updates, incident resolution, security measures and reporting continue.
Insights
What is a managed service provider (MSP)?
MAKONIS team · · 5 min read
In short: A managed service provider (MSP) is an IT provider that permanently and independently operates defined IT services, such as cloud platforms, applications or security monitoring. It is responsible for an outcome such as availability or response time, defined in a service level agreement (SLA), and usually bills a monthly flat fee.
Book a free callTypical services
Operating and monitoring cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure.
Running Kubernetes clusters and applications (application operations).
Security monitoring, patch management and compliance evidence.
Cost control (FinOps) and governance.
MSP, staff augmentation and projects
The key difference is responsibility.
| Model | Who owns the outcome? | Billing |
|---|---|---|
| Managed service provider | Provider (per SLA) | Monthly fee |
| Staff augmentation | Customer; provider supplies people | Hours or days |
| Project | Provider until acceptance | Fixed price or effort |
What an SLA should contain
Service hours, response and resolution times per priority, escalation paths, reporting duties, responsibilities at interfaces and rules for changes and termination.
MAKONIS as an MSP
MAKONIS runs eight managed services from Azure and Kubernetes to sovereign AI, with entry prices from €490 per month. 24/7 operations run from Krakow inside the EU; your contacts are in Munich. MAKONIS is certified to ISO 27001, ISO 9001 and TISAX.
Frequently asked questions
Managed service provider: a provider that operates IT services on an ongoing basis.
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