Technology has forever changed how we live and work. In business, it has transformed services, production, operations, and communications. Technology insights and data enables businesses to make better decisions, improve operational efficiency, and create a competitive edge. Sometimes, managing all things IT can be too much for a small business to handle themselves. Outsourcing IT needs can be a great option to get a helping hand…
Managed IT services refers to the outsourcing of a company’s IT operations to a third-party provider. An IT service agency can proactively manage and support your technology systems while also supporting security initiatives. In the manufacturing industry—where uptime, efficiency, and security are vital—partnering with a managed service provider (MSP) can be the difference between progress and production delays. Outsourcing these IT services help manufacturers stay competitive, secure, and scalable in an increasingly tech-driven world.
The Importance of IT Services in Manufacturing
Manufacturing companies rely on consistent uptime, efficient processes, and secure systems to meet production goals and stay competitive. Technology is a foundational resource for modern manufacturers. Tech brings monitoring and maintenance for systems, supporting and minimizing downtime. Technology can also help optimize performance and prevent cyber threats that could disrupt operations.
Managed IT services for manufacturers often bridge the connection between traditional IT and operational technology (OT) environments. The connection between these sectors ensures machines, networks, and data systems work in harmony. IT services of particular interest to outsource include network management, data backup and disaster recovery, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and help desk support. By outsourcing these responsibilities, manufacturers can focus on production while knowing their technology infrastructure is secure, scalable, and well-maintained.
Use Cases for Managed IT Services in Manufacturing
Here are some prime uses cases for how managed IT services can support your organization:
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Preventing Downtime with 24/7 Monitoring: MSPs proactively monitor servers, networks, and production systems. Detecting issues before they cause costly downtime saves both time and money for the factory floor. Implementing smarter systems and AI tool efficiencies can further improve uptime and operational flow.
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Securing Operational Technology (OT): MSPs help safeguard control systems and network environments from cyber threats, through endpoint protection, segmentation, and vulnerability management.
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Managing ERP and MES Systems: Many manufacturers rely on ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) to keep their business running smoothly. MSPs ensure system maintenance, updates, and integrations are set properly.
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Remote Support for Multi-Plant Locations: With locations spread across regions, MSPs offer consistent IT support with centralized management, reducing the need for onsite IT staff at every location.
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Data Backup and Disaster Recovery: MSPs design and manage backup solutions that protect critical manufacturing data. From design data, files, production schedules, and inventory systems, backing up this information prevents loss and minimizes the impacts of ransomware attacks.
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Supporting Compliance with Industry Standards: MSPs assist manufacturers in meeting regulatory requirements such as NIST, ISO 27001, and CMMC by implementing necessary controls and documentation.
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Cloud Migration for Scalability: The cloud can bring greater flexibility and scalability across the supply chain and operations. MSPs help manufacturers manage their cloud (or hybrid) systems, and even move legacy systems to the cloud.
Key Benefits of Managed IT Services in Manufacturing
There are many benefits to be argued for offloading some (or all) of your IT management. Listed are some benefits of managed IT services for manufacturers:
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Reduce Downtime and Increase Productivity
With proactive monitoring and issue resolution, MSPs help prevent unexpected system failures that could halt production lines. Manufacturers benefit from 24/7 help desk support, ensuring quick resolution to IT issues that could impact production schedules or delivery deadlines. -
Enhance Cybersecurity
MSPs implement layered security strategies—like firewalls, endpoint protection, and employee training—to protect against ransomware and data breaches targeting operational technology. -
Predictable IT Costs
Flat-rate monthly pricing allows manufacturers to budget more effectively, avoiding surprise costs from emergency fixes or hardware failures. -
Improve Focus on Core Operations
By offloading IT management, manufacturers can direct more attention to innovation, product development, and scaling operations. -
Better Regulatory Compliance
MSPs help maintain compliance with standards like NIST and CMMC by keeping systems secure, up to date, and properly documented. Certified and experience security professionals can fill any knowledge gaps your team might have about compliance changes. -
Scalable Technology Infrastructure
As production needs grow, MSPs can quickly scale infrastructure—such as cloud services or networking—to support expansion or seasonal demand.
IT Challenges Manufacturing Companies Face
Manufacturers face unique IT challenges that can directly impact production, safety, and profitability. Compliance with industry regulations like NIST, CMMC, or ISO requires secure, well-documented systems. This is something many manufacturers struggle to manage without dedicated IT expertise. At the same time, the rise in ransomware and cyberattacks targeting operational technology (OT) environments makes cybersecurity a growing concern. Efficiency is another hurdle. Legacy systems, downtime, and lack of integration between IT and production systems can slow output and increase costs.
Managed IT services help resolve these challenges by bringing structure, expertise, and proactive support to the table. MSPs can implement and maintain compliant systems, manage documentation, and perform regular risk assessments to keep manufacturers audit-ready. They also deliver cybersecurity protections tailored to both IT and OT environments, minimizing exposure to cyber threats. Additionally, managed services improve operational efficiency by keeping systems up to date, integrating platforms, and reducing downtime. All of these elements help manufacturers maintain productivity and stay competitive in a fast-paced industry.
Outsourcing Managed IT Services for Manufacturing
For manufacturing companies looking to outsource their IT, NetGain Technologies offers a tailored solution built on decades of experience. Working with many manufacturing organization over the years, we have a deep understanding of industry needs. As a trusted managed IT and cybersecurity partner since 1984, NetGain specializes in supporting mid-sized manufacturers with both traditional IT and operational technology (OT) environments.
What sets NetGain apart is our local presence, 24/7 support, and dedicated security team with CISSP-certified engineers. We go beyond basic monitoring—offering compliance assistance, scalable cloud solutions, proactive system maintenance, and concierge-level service designed to reduce downtime, secure your operations, and streamline your production. With NetGain, manufacturers gain a strategic partner committed to keeping systems running smoothly. We support growth and innovation from office to factory floor. Interested in learning more about we can support your organization’s growth? Schedule a quick chat with our team.
