IT support refers to various services which entities offer to end users of information technology products or solutions. In simple terms, IT support offers assistance regarding specific issues with a particular product or service, instead of providing personalized training, provision, or modification of the IT product, or any other support services on demand. Many companies require IT support for various reasons, and these may include upgrading the system to a more modern one, installing antivirus software, enhancing the security of a network, adding new software or hardware, and a host of others. In all cases, IT support is necessary as the process involves the coordination of changes in IT infrastructure, software, hardware, operating systems, and other procedures at various levels. There are various types of IT support services, including:
End-user support: This type of IT support is provided to end users
who require assistance with installing, troubleshooting, adjusting, upgrading, and troubleshooting any aspect of their new technology products or systems. For this service, a company representative will visit the location of the customer and perform a self-installation of the relevant software or hardware. They provide detailed instructions and will also assist the client in resetting the associated settings. Once they are done with the installation process, they will provide the client with any suggestions that they may have, to ensure the best outcome is achieved.
OEM support: This is a service provided by software applications or hardware manufacturers. They specialize in maintaining the programs and hardware of an organization’s computers. They ensure that the programs work properly and are not subject to vulnerabilities. In addition, they optimize the utilization of the latest technology available. In short, OEM service providers to ensure that an organization’s data and technology systems function in optimum conditions. They have to be certified by the American Society for Information Technology (ASIT) or the American computer registrar.
Microsoft Certified Systems (MCS) and Microsoft Licensed Systems (MPLS) are two of the most popular certification programs out there. The programs provide clear and comprehensive information technology training, with all the tools required to effectively handle IT issues. Organizations might opt for a specific course or elect to take a series of short courses that cover different topics. These courses offer flexible working hours, as well as the ability to work independently after having completed the course.
Microsoft Certified Systems specialists offer a variety of support services
such as helping business owners with their Microsoft Office applications, ensuring that servers are properly maintained and assisting in managing information technology hardware needs. Some also provide customized computer software training services, depending on the organization’s needs. There are also third-party technical support services offered by these companies. These third-party support providers, in addition to being certified by Microsoft, usually also offer other services such as consulting services, providing technical advice, and assisting organizations in using Microsoft Office software efficiently.
Microsoft Licensed Systems (LMS) technicians provide basic IT support by repairing hardware, developing upgrades, and providing technical support to end-users who use Windows. At this level of support, Microsoft Certified Systems professionals are trained to help users resolve common technical problems involving computers, such as fixing software problems, updating drivers, downloading and installing the latest versions of Microsoft Office programs, and resolving common issues with the Windows operating system. To be an LMS professional, you must pass a comprehensive exam. Many LMS specialists can also provide support through a Windows Intune interface.
- An IT support company at this level specializes in a particular segment of information technology.
- For example, some IT support companies provide managed services for small businesses,
- Helping them coordinate hardware and software issues, and train their employees.
Other IT support companies focus on professional-level support, such as helping large companies make information technology investments. For this type of support, an IT support company may specialize in a particular industry, such as enterprise architecture, industrial maintenance, healthcare, or networking.
There is also a third type of IT support professional, the information technology specialist (IT Siks). These technicians are required by some companies to be trained by a company on new technologies before being allowed to work on-site. With this type of certification, they can work as a diagnostic technician or information technology specialist (IT Sik), performing tasks similar to a general information technology technician (EIT). However, a certified specialist may not work directly with customers, may only work on IT projects of larger companies, and cannot practice diagnostic or design techniques. Instead, he or she must follow a documented path of education and training from an accredited school to become an IT Siks.