Managed Service Provider Week in Review

Mobility and VoIP were hot topics in the managed services space this week. As end users seek more flexibility and choice in the types of devices they use and the ways they communicate, MSPs have been working to expand their portfolios and deliver various types and levels of support.

GFI MAX released a new version of its RemoteManagement platform this week in support of MSPs and other IT support providers. The offering extends the MDM services of the platform to support Windows 8.1, enabling MSPs to better secure data and manage Android (News - Alert), iOS and Windows mobile devices.

Gartner has published its Magic Quadrant Report for the Identity and Access Management as a Service (IDaaS) space and has named Simeio Solutions to its list of niche players. The report examines providers offering in-depth IAM services through a cloud-based authentication infrastructure.

TDS Telecom launched its Remote Teleworker VoIP solution in tandem with network provider Bandwidth (News - Alert). The offering uses Bandwidth’s nationwide network as well as its number management tools and 911 support services. The collaboration enables TDS to expand its VoIP and UC services as well as connect corporate headquarters, branch offices and remote workers in multiple locations.

In acquisition news, eFolder acquired Cloudfinder, a Swedish provider of cloud-to-cloud backup services. The purchase enhances the eFolder portfolio of business continuity and cloud file sync services, providing additional choices and revenue streams for the company’s MSP and other channel partners. Cloudfinder solutions include support for backup, restoration and reporting of B2B cloud services.

Texas company Aldridge also completed an acquisition this week, scooping up Houston MSP IS Support. The company offers managed technology services in addition to cloud hosting solutions for VoIP and Exchange. The buyout expands Aldridge’s portfolio and client base in the Dallas and Houston areas and the company plans to offer clients simplified IT operations as well as faster response times.