Overview

Managed Service Provider (MSP) is built on a single Domain with a single Sub Domain, utilizing a multi-tenant concept. Each customer is considered an individual tenant or department. For example, whenever a tenant or department on the consumer screen is selected, the data relevant to that specific tenant or department is displayed.

Figure: Basic Structure - MSP

Introduction

A Managed Service Provider (MSP) is an external company that manages and delivers a range of IT services to businesses. Typically operating under a subscription or contractual agreement, MSPs handle various tasks to ensure that IT systems and infrastructure function efficiently.

In the MSP, user data must be segregated to prevent access between customers. Each customer is provided with a unique URL for logging in and raising tickets. Analysts supporting the MSP solution will use the respective URLs to manage customer-specific requests.

High-level Steps to setup MSP

To configure MSP, below are high-level steps:

MSP Setup

In the MSP setup, multiple customers are configured as individual tenants or departments within a single Domain and Sub domain. Each customer has its own:

•    URL

•    Single Sign-On (SSO)

•    Service Portal

Access to tenants or departments is controlled through role templates, allowing analysts to access customer tenants or departments based on their assigned roles.

MSP Architecture

Each customer in an MSP environment is considered as an individual tenant or department, with no access to other tenants' user data. This ensures data privacy and security. However, the Sub Domain Analyst has access to the user data of all tenants. The MSP architecture provides a detailed description of each component.

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) enhances efficiency and focus, overcoming the challenges of self-managed on-prem tools.

Overview of MSP

In this video, we’ll explore the role of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and how they help businesses streamline their IT operations. From proactive monitoring and cybersecurity to cloud solutions and cost savings, MSPs offer the expertise and support that businesses need to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced digital world. Let’s dive in!

Prerequisites

There are three configurations in prerequisites to configure an MSP setup. These are:

• IIS Setting  

• Env.ts 

• Web.Config 

IIS Setting 

IIS (Internet Information Services) is a web server software created by Microsoft that is used to host and manage websites and web applications. 

To configure IIS Setting, perform the following steps: 

1. Navigate to the Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager and click Actions > Edit Site > Bindings. The Site Bindings window is displayed.  

2. Add the three URLs as given.  

Figure: Site Bindings  

Env.ts 

An env.ts file is typically used to define and manage environment-specific configurations, such as API endpoints, database connections, feature toggles, or other environment-related constants. 

To configure Env.ts, perform the following steps: 

1. Navigate to the NTP_DEMO_SANITY_ > Sites > apexdemo-msp.  

Figure: Connections   

2. Right- click and navigate to Explore > Assets.  

3. Right- click the environment variable and select Edit. Any URL configured in IIS must also be set in the environment variable.   

4. In the environment variable, there is a Angular web.config file, do not add any URL in the “Access-Control-Allow-Origin” value.  

Web.config 

A web.config file is an XML-based configuration file used by Microsoft’s ASP.NET applications to manage settings for web applications hosted on IIS (Internet Information Services). 

To configure Web.config, perform the following steps: 

1. Navigate to the APEXDEMO-MSP > Config > Master > appsettings.production.  

2. Configure all the required URLs in “AllowOrigin”. Refer the screenshot for more information.  For example, “https://company-msp.abccompany.com; https://company-msp1.abccompany.com; https://company-msp2.abccompany.com/”

Figure: appsettings.production

Benefits

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) offer a range of benefits to businesses by managing and assuming responsibility for providing a defined set of services to their clients, either proactively or as they determine that services are needed. Here are some key benefits of utilizing MSPs:

• Cost Efficiency: MSPs can reduce operational costs by offering a fixed monthly pricing model. This allows businesses to budget more effectively and avoid unexpected expenses associated with IT maintenance and support.

• Expertise and Experience: MSPs provide access to a team of experts with specialized skills and knowledge. They stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and industry best practices, which can be challenging for in-house teams to maintain.

• Enhanced Security: MSPs often have advanced security tools and processes to protect business data and networks. They can implement security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular audits to ensure compliance with industry standards.

• Scalability and Flexibility: MSPs offer scalable solutions that can grow with your business. As your needs change, you can adjust the level of service you receive without the hassle of hiring additional staff or investing in new infrastructure.

• Access to New Technologies: MSPs have partnerships with major technology vendors and can provide access to the latest tools and solutions, helping businesses stay competitive without the need for significant capital investment.

• Improved Compliance: With the landscape of data protection regulations constantly evolving, MSPs help ensure your business remains compliant with laws such as GDPR, HIPAA, and others by implementing the necessary controls and reporting.

• Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity: MSPs often offer disaster recovery solutions to ensure that critical business functions can continue in the event of a data loss or disaster. This includes regular backups and robust recovery plans.

• 24/7 Support: Many MSPs provide round-the-clock support to address any issues that arise, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations.

By leveraging the services of an MSP, businesses can not only enhance their technical capabilities but also gain strategic advantages that help them operate more efficiently and effectively in a competitive market.

Use Cases

Following are the use-cases with respect to user personas in Tenant based MSP Solution.

• Analyst

• End User

Analyst Persona

End User Persona