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Outsourcing Linux in the Enterprise

Outsourcing Linux support can be a smart move – but only if it’s done right.

For enterprise IT teams, Linux is often business-critical. Whether it’s powering scientific research, enabling digital products, or supporting complex infrastructure, it needs to run smoothly, securely, and efficiently.

But not every in-house team has the time, scale, or specialist knowledge to keep up with it all – especially as demands grow and systems evolve. That’s where outsourcing comes in. Done well, it frees your team to focus on strategic priorities while ensuring your Linux estate remains robust and resilient.

Here’s how to get it right.

When to Consider Outsourcing Linux Support

  • You have business-critical Linux systems but limited internal expertise.
  • Your team is overstretched, and Linux isn’t their focus.
  • You’re preparing for a major change – such as cloud migration, scaling, or transformation.
  • Security and compliance requirements are growing, and you need support to stay ahead.
  • You want 24/7 monitoring and proactive support without building a round-the-clock internal team.

What to Look For in a Linux Partner

  • Deep, Specialist Knowledge: Choose a provider that lives and breathes Linux – not just one who lists it on a long menu of services.
  • Track Record in Your Industry: Experience matters. Look for a team that understands the demands of regulated, high-performance, or innovation-led environments.
  • Proactive Approach: Good support doesn’t just fix what’s broken – it anticipates issues, strengthens your setup, and helps you make smarter decisions.
  • Direct Access to Engineers: You shouldn’t have to go through tiers of generic support. Make sure you can talk to people who understand your infrastructure.
  • Security Credentials: Ask about ISO 27001 certification and security processes. This is non-negotiable when systems and data are on the line.
  • Flexible Engagement Models: One-size-fits-all rarely fits anyone well. A good partner will shape their service around your specific needs – not the other way around.

Making It Work

Outsourcing isn’t a silver bullet – it’s a strategic decision. To get the most from it:

  • Be clear on what outcomes you want: uptime, performance, innovation, or all three.
  • Set expectations around communication, escalation, and documentation from the start.
  • Don’t just look for a supplier – look for a partner who understands your environment and goals.
  • Ensure there’s a roadmap for continuous improvement, not just a reactive service.

Linux is powerful. But managing it well takes time, care, and the right expertise. If you’re considering outsourcing, the goal isn’t to do less – it’s to do more of what matters.

Want to talk about what best-practice Linux outsourcing could look like in your organisation? Get in touch.

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