Optimised hardware and data flow across modern manufacturing sites

MSPs equip manufacturers with secure, scalable hardware, preventing downtime and enabling seamless production focus.

In manufacturing, hardware isn’t just IT equipment — it is the backbone of production. Choosing the right high-level hardware is critical because it directly impacts uptime, efficiency and security. With so much hardware available, it can feel overwhelming to choose what will be the best and most efficient for your business. Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can take the stress away by selecting servers, networking gear and industrial PCs tailored to your needs.

Production Continuity

Manufacturing relies on real-time data from sensors, programmable logic controllers and ERP tools such as MRPEasy, 1Factory, Sage, Odoo and Dynamics. Weak or outdated hardware can cause downtime — halting production and costing thousands per minute. It is vital that your hardware runs smoothly and securely to avoid disruption. Even a short period of downtime can result in significant losses. These disruptions can also impact the supply chain, delaying deliveries and damaging customer trust.

Scalability and Growth

As manufacturers expand, hardware must support more machines, users and data. High-level hardware ensures systems can scale effectively without operational downtime. You should be able to rely on your MSP to source, distribute and install hardware without affecting day-to-day activities. Systems must be capable of handling increased data volumes, more connected devices and higher transaction loads. Hardware and networks must also be flexible enough to integrate new machinery and software.

Cyber Security and Compliance

We understand the importance of compliance and security within the manufacturing industry — the number-one sector for cyber-attacks. In 2024 alone, there was a 71% increase in threat actors targeting manufacturing, with ransomware responsible for nearly half of the attacks. Manufacturing has been the most targeted sector for three consecutive years, accounting for 25.7% of all cyber incidents. Outdated or consumer-grade hardware often lacks enterprise-level security features, whereas industrial-grade hardware supports encryption and enhanced protection.

Lifecycle Management

A Managed Service Provider can track hardware lifecycles and ensure timely upgrades before performance or security risks arise. We assess business needs, forecast growth and select the right hardware and software for your business to thrive. As standard, we install and configure all systems so they integrate seamlessly with your existing IT and business processes, minimising disruption during upgrades or new system rollouts.

Conclusion

For manufacturers, the right hardware is the difference between smooth production and costly downtime. MSPs act as strategic and collaborative partners, ensuring manufacturers have robust, secure and scalable hardware — while managing it end-to-end so the business can focus on production, not IT headaches.

Want to learn more? Contact us today on 01256 479700 to discuss how we can support your manufacturing operations.

*Insight statistic source: Dragos – Claims on cyber threat actors targeting manufacturing.