Amazon Web Services (AWS) has become the most popular cloud platform, offering over 200 services for computing, storage, networking, analytics, application services, security, and more. With AWS, companies can grow fast, innovate, save money, secure, and maintain compliance.
A server room. Image credit: Taylor Vick via Unsplash, free license
Now, when looking for the best AWS MSP (Managed Service Provider), you have to think about a few things – such as how good they are at this stuff, what level they are in AWS, whether they are security gurus, what tools they are loaded with, and so on. This guide will help you determine which AWS Managed Services Partner is right for you.
First things first, when choosing an AWS Managed Services provider, you need to know what you are looking for. Think carefully about where you need help:
Infrastructure management – you need help getting your cloud built, moving, and making sure it’s up and running. Find a provider that can fill in the gaps in your team.
Security – If you’re scratching your head about cloud security, access control, encryption, and all that, talk to an AWS MSP; with an AWS MSP, you’re in good hands.
Compliance – There are rules to follow, such as HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR, etc. Find an MSP who is familiar with AWS compliance.
Application Development – You need the coding magic of cloud-native applications; an MSP can be your coding buddy.
Cost Optimization – You want to save valuable AWS dollars; MSP can help you right-size, plan for reserved instances, and monitor costs. Aws consulting services can also help you develop a cost-reduction strategy.
Cloud Migration – Migrate your old system to AWS; let MSP help you plan and ensure a smooth transition.
Write down what the problems are and what you are looking for. This will help you find the right MSP. Focus on what really matters to your business.
Check out tools and automation.
Talk about fancy tools and shortcuts to get things done faster.
When checking out an AWS MSP, pay attention to the tools they use to make life easier in AWS. The big guys usually have their own cool tools and tricks to handle things like configuration, modification, and monitoring. These tools can really make a difference in managing a lot of things without breaking a sweat.
Look for MSPs that have their own cloud management platform with special tools, workflows, and automation capabilities for AWS. It is a one-stop shop for the usual tasks of setup, securing, reducing costs, and complying with rules. Automated workflows smooth things out and reduce mistakes.
An MSP should be committed to automating setup, securing, problem-solving, and tedious maintenance tasks. This way, the smart engineer can focus on what’s important, not the daily grind.
These tools also provide a peek behind the curtain. Dashboards allow you to see what is happening in the cloud and what the tools are doing in real-time.
Basically, pick an MSP that is serious about its own tools and tricks for AWS. It shows that they are smart and committed to making your life easier.
Think about the money.
The cost of cloud computing can be outrageous if you don’t watch it. A good MSP should be able to help you keep it down.
- Reserved Instances – Reserved instances allow you to get significant discounts on EC2 costs by pre-paying for capacity over 1-3 years. A good MSP will advise which instances to reserve based on your workload.
- Right Sizing – The MSP should regularly analyze resource utilization and right size instances to ensure you aren’t overpaying. They can right-size CPU, memory, storage, and other resources.
- Unused Resource Cleanup – Over time resource waste can accumulate, like unused EBS volumes or idle load balancers. An MSP will routinely clean up unused resources.
- Purchase Management – Special pricing and discounts are often available from AWS, especially with volume purchasing. Your MSP should leverage their purchasing power to get you the best discounts.
- RI Utilization Tracking – To get the most from RIs, your MSP should track RI coverage and utilization across your accounts. This ensures you are maximizing the value of RIs.
- Reserved Instance Marketplace – An MSP can sell underutilized RIs on your behalf through the AWS RI marketplace. This can help recoup value from unused RIs.
A good MSP will treat cost management as an ongoing, not a one-time job. Keeping an eye on spending and making sure you are getting the most out of your money is the key to getting the most out of the cloud.
Conclusion.
In summary, choosing the best AWS Managed Service Provider means thinking about what your business needs, checking out what tools and tricks the MSP can provide, and making sure the MSP is not broken. Then you are on your way to cloud success with AWS.