Cloud maintenance

Maintenance is the work of keeping computer systems running correctly and safely. It includes installing software updates, fixing faults and keeping security protection up to date. It is wider than repairing broken hardware: it also covers monitoring and security updates.

Cloud maintenance is usually carried out automatically by the cloud provider. The organisation does not install the updates or repair the service itself.

Benefits for an organisation

• Saves money: the organisation does not need its own IT technicians for this maintenance work.
• Saves time: the provider takes care of updates and technical problems, freeing staff to concentrate on their usual work.
• Fixes problems quickly: the provider monitors the service, so faults can be found and fixed sooner. This means less downtime and less disruption for users.
• Helps protect data: the provider keeps security software and hardware up to date, reducing the risk from known security weaknesses.

For example, a group of dental practices uses a cloud appointment booking system. The provider automatically installs updates to the booking software and keeps its security protection current. When the appointment list stops loading one morning, the provider's monitoring alerts its support team and they fix the fault. The practices do not pay an IT technician to do these tasks, and reception staff do not spend time installing updates.

What the organisation still does

Provider maintenance does not mean the organisation has no IT work. It may still need staff with the expertise to manage user accounts, train users and deal with minor issues. The provider looks after the service, but the organisation still has responsibilities.