What is Hardware Maintenance?
Hardware Maintenance Explained
Hardware maintenance can be somewhat complicated to define, as it is utilized by various industries and carries different connotations depending on the type of hardware a given industry specializes in. In TPM world, the sorts of devices included in the term "hardware" are generally enterprise equipment, including servers, storage, and networking devices. Since we are part of the third party maintenance industry, we'll focus on the definition and explanation of hardware maintenance that we work with most. Jump to any section.
Hardware Maintenance Definition
Hardware Maintenance Definition
Hardware maintenance is a term used to reference the variety of support services provided for the optimization and/or repair of server, network and storage hardware.
These services might include contract maintenance, installation, hourly technical consulting services and parts. Resources such as a helpdesk, high-level engineering, field engineers, on-site technical resources and parts are usually included with the services.
Aftermarket Hardware Support
Another term we like for hardware maintenance is “aftermarket hardware support” because it helps define what we do with more clarity. Aftermarket hardware support is the same service you might find under the other names - support services for data center and enterprise hardware from a provider other than the OEM.
Aftermarket support, hardware maintenance, third party maintenance, post warranty support, or whatever you want to call it allows for more customization and enhanced service beyond what you’ll find with the manufacturer. All the names and terms surrounding the hardware support space can get a little confusing, so we did a deep dive into the different terms and relationships. To learn more, check out our article on the Explanation of Hardware Support Terms.
Importance of Hardware Maintenance
Hardware maintenance or hardware support can be thought of like an insurance policy or a warranty on your car. When you have a warranty on your car, you no longer have to worry about how much the maintenance and repairs will cost.
Less Stress
Experts to Help
Instead, you can pass off the problem to experts who have the resources that you aren’t likely to have internally and they will take care of it. Equipment is often put under a maintenance contract to ensure the support is available when needed.
OEM Hardware Maintenance Vs TPM Hardware Maintenance
Major Differences
One of the major differences between the hardware maintenance you would receive through an OEM and what you would receive through a third party maintenance provider is reflected in the business focus. OEM’s are in the business of selling hardware and their attention and resources are focused on hardware sales, not service. Rigid protocols mean there is less flexibility in service level agreements (SLA) and often they have broad disclaimers covering them if they are unable to fulfill their SLAs.
The hardware maintenance service you receive through a TPM provider generally shows that their focus is on customer service. At M Global, our customers’ needs are top priority and we focus our attention on giving them the best possible experience. We have the ability to be flexible and customize service to fit client needs.
More Details on the Differences
To learn more about hardware maintenance and the differences between OEM services and TPM services. We cover topics such as cost savings, escalation processes, parts stocking strategies and more.
Much like an insurance policy, you may not realize how important hardware support is until you need it. With the right hardware maintenance contract, you can rest easy. You won’t be worrying about downtime or stressing overblown budgets because if you are partnering with M Global for your hardware maintenance needs, we got you covered.
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We want you to consider us an extension of your team, a trusted resource and advisor. Call us today at 855-304-4600 to find out more.
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