How Cloud is Making Local IT Networks More Reliable with Connected UPSs

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and their customers do not really need much convincing that the uninterruptible power supply – or UPS – is the cornerstone of network reliability and availability. For more than three decades, compact UPSs have ensured the protection of hardware, software and data for small, medium and large networks all around the globe.

While UPSs themselves are designed to be durable and dependable, maximizing their potential requires that they are properly looked after. However, although most are aware that even with care, parts such as batteries will eventually need replacement, many overlook the importance of monitoring and regular maintenance of UPSs.

Even with the inclusion of self-monitoring software and auto-notification features which are incorporated into many of the latest UPS models, regular inspections are still a useful discipline to ensure that UPS systems are operating properly. Ideally, a record should also be kept regarding the type of maintenance performed and the condition of the equipment as this can help the support team if a problem does occur.

The recent innovation of cloud-enabled UPS, designed to protect smaller, distributed IT devices and networks provides a major step forward in the ease and convenience of maintaining UPSs. Devices such as APC™ by Schneider Electric Smart-UPS™ with SmartConnect combine ease of installation and use, together with monitoring and automated actionable alerts to propel a new generation of partner service provision. Monitoring is a perfect platform for MSPs to deliver value to their customers because more than ever, almost every business is dependent upon the availability of IT services for daily operations.

Setup of the service is a simple, three-step process and MSPs can install up to 25 APC SmartConnect compatible Smart-UPSs at any customer site. Power Management Services are a natural extension to the work MSPs currently offer, and RMM integration with APC SmartConnect eliminates the need for costly training, ensuring partners an easy workflow integration by removing the necessity to code or even install SNMP traps. APC SmartConnect is integrated with RMM platforms including Kaseya and ConnectWise, which have long been in use to remotely and proactively monitor client’s endpoints, networks and computers.

The benefits of cloud-enabled UPS are quickly realized. The customer gains peace of mind knowing the UPS system is being monitored so that it can be properly and proactively maintained for reliable performance in the event of an unplanned power outage. No matter where IT services are located, end customers can remain focused on their core competencies and business as usual, safe in the knowledge that this vital part of infrastructure is safely being managed by the service partner.

In addition to receiving automatic updates and alerts, the MSP can proactively view the UPS status through the secure portal, as well as schedule firmware updates. Partners may also use the information being received from the cloud monitoring service to provide additional services to customers, schedule regular inspections and deliver proactive, timely maintenance that will avoid unnecessary downtime – saving the customer both time and money at the same time as creating new lines of income. All this, using the cloud to help build a relationship of trust and ensure Certainty in a Connected World for end users.

If you’d like to learn more about UPS management, please download white paper 210, “Single Phase UPS Management, Maintenance, and Lifecycle”or visit the Cloud Connected Smart-UPS webpage.