FAQs
Ask the experts at Matrix-NDI. We have answers to your most commonly asked questions — and more. Work with us to gain the information needed to make informed decisions.
Services
Gain a deeper understanding of what we do — and how to work with Matrix-NDI.
Learn About Our ServicesWhat services do you offer?
Matrix-NDI handles structured cabling, networking hardware, network connections, and IT consulting services.
How can I contact you?
Location
Matrix-NDI
171 Cheshire Lane
Suite 700
Plymouth, MN 55441Phone
763.475.5500Hours
8:00AM – 5:00PM CSTWhat do your IT consulting services include?
Matrix-NDI helps you handle today and prepare for tomorrow. We offer the expertise needed to modernize your IT infrastructure, make network-related software decisions, and support CTO/CISO needs.
Can you help with network setup?
Yes. Networking is what we do. From initial design to installation of structured cabling, you can count on the best quality work and full compliance with industry best practices and all building/safety codes.
How can I get support?
Please email us at contactus@matrix-ndi.com or call 763-475-5500. Based on your needs, we’ll connect you to an account executive who is best suited for the project.
What is Backup as a Service (BaaS)?
BaaS is a cloud computing service model in which developers outsource all of the behind-the-scenes elements of a web or mobile application, leaving them only to code and maintain the frontend. BaaS providers have pre-written software for server activities, such as user authentication, database management, remote updating, push notifications (for mobile apps), and cloud storage and hosting.
What is Cloud as a Service (CaaS)?
CaaS is a term used to describe all-in-one services that bundle infrastructure, platform, and Software-as-a-Service technologies into one subscription. It’s also commonly referred to as “cloud services.”
What is Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS)?
CCaaS is a cloud-based contact center solution that provides businesses with the tools to manage customer interactions across various channels, from voice and chat to email and social media.
What is Data Center as a Service (DCaaS)
DCaaS is a cloud-based solution where companies rent data center infrastructure from a third-party provider. The key advantage of DCaaS is flexibility and scalability. Companies only pay for the resources they use, which reduces costs and avoids upfront investments in hardware. It also allows businesses to scale their IT needs up or down as demand changes.
What is Desktop as a Service (DaaS)?
DaaS is any cloud-based service that provides users access to various data types. This can include enterprise records, personal files, or data generated by sensors in the Internet of Things (IoT). Data as a Service is similar to Desktop-as-a-Service, which provides IT departments and other organizations with remote delivery options for their company’s desktop computers. With DaaS, users can access virtualized desktops through a network connection rather than a physical one and easily switch between different devices to complete their work.
What is Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS)?
DRaaS is a cloud-based service that provides organizations with a way to recover from a natural or manmade disaster. It’s a subscription-based service that usually includes data backup, replication, and failover capabilities. It’s a more robust solution than BaaS which is often limited to simply backing up data. While BaaS is good, DRaaS is the best-in-class option when operational continuity is essential.
What is Function as a Service (FaaS)?
FaaS is a cloud computing service model in which developers can write code that is executed in a cloud environment. Also known as the Function-as-a-Service (FaaS) model, it allows developers to focus on coding and execution without worrying about server management or infrastructure scaling.
What is Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)?
IaaS provides world-class IT infrastructure to any size company, with operations outsourced to third parties. Cloud architecture is behind many platforms, applications, and software.
What is IoT as a Service (IoTaaS)?
IoTaaS enables you to pay for only the resources and devices you need in a given period of time. IoTaaS is ideal for situations in which demand spikes suddenly, requiring you to rapidly set up and tear down resources without incurring expenditures for devices that are only used for a short time.
What is Monitoring as a Service (MaaS)?
MaaS is a subscription-based service that provides organizations access to a wide range of monitoring tools and services. These include user activity monitoring, data center infrastructure management (DCIM), security incident and event management (SIEM), and application performance monitoring (APM).
What is Networking as a Service (NaaS)?
NaaS is rented/subscription network capability from a third party that owns the infrastructure, usually an ISP. Onboarding and offboarding traffic on demand — most useful for firms with frequently changing needs.
What is Operations as a Service (OaaS)?
OaaS outsources some or all aspects of operations management to an external provider. This can include IT services, staffing and recruitment, customer service, facilities management, event planning, and other support functions.
What is Platform as a Service (PaaS)?
PaaS provides a suite of tools where developers can build, deploy, and manage application software in the cloud. PaaS offerings typically include databases, software frameworks, developer tools, and other services that help developers create and host their apps without worrying about managing infrastructure or scale.
What is Software as a Service (SaaS)?
SaaS is a software distribution model in which software is provided to customers on a subscription basis. Providers and customers like it because it uses recurring monthly billing, avoids annual commitments, and provides flexibility. SaaS solutions are typically delivered over the internet and accessed by users via web browsers or mobile apps.
What is Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS)?
UCaaS is a cloud-based solution that combines voice, video, data, and other communications into a single platform. This allows businesses to streamline their communication systems and reduce the need for multiple devices and applications. UCaaS solutions are typically delivered as a subscription-based service, with customers paying a monthly fee for access to the platform.
What is Video as a Service (VaaS)?
VaaS is video conferencing via the cloud. As more businesses switch to video conferencing, their IT problems grow too. Companies that go all-in on cloud-based VaaS get higher-resolution images, and fewer dropped calls while the experts are kept on standby to keep things running smoothly.
What is Workplace as a Service (WaaS)?
WaaS is a cloud-based solution that provides users access to a virtual desktop environment. This allows businesses to provide their employees with a consistent and secure workspace that can be accessed from any location. WaaS solutions are often delivered as a subscription-based service, with customers paying a monthly fee for access to the platform.
What is Anything as a Service (XaaS)?
XaaS (pronounced “zass”) is a catch-all term for any cloud-based service. As the name suggests, XaaS providers offer a wide range of services tailored to their customers’ specific needs.
What is structured cabling?
Structured cabling is the process of designing, organizing, and managing cabling infrastructure within a facility. It involves a comprehensive system of cabling and associated hardware for data, voice, video, and power.
What is network hardware?
Network hardware consists of the devices on your network that facilitate communication between endpoints (computers, servers tablets, Wi-Fi access points, etc.), allowing them to share resources, data, and services.
What are network connections?
Network connections are the foundational components that provide internet connectivity, define the network, create recovery protocols, provide work platforms, create communication systems, and more.
Why do I need IT infrastructure?
Work devices like PCs and mobile devices must be connected to an IT infrastructure to achieve full functionality. An IT infrastructure is the backbone of all the work tools an end-user utilizes, from email and web browsing to transferring files, making calls, and video conferencing.
Why do I need an IT infrastructure consultant?
Certified IT Infrastructure consultants are responsible for planning, sourcing, and managing your national IT project rollout. From efficiency to best practices, utilizing an IT Infrastructure consultant will provide a good experience and on-time delivery.
What certifications should I look for in a structured cabling company?
What is IT consulting?
IT consulting helps organizations determine what technology they need, create roadmaps for future enhancements, and help implement innovations to improve operations or achieve business objectives. IIT consulting is an essential partnership for:
- IT Strategy and Planning
- Systems Integration
- Cybersecurity and Risk Management
- Business Process Optimization
- Technology Implementation
- Digital Transformation
How can cloud-based applications benefit my business?
Cloud-based applications, whether for work applications, communications systems, or the network itself (Network as a Service), reduce costs, simplify maintenance, promote reliability, and provide nearly unlimited scalability/flexibility.
How often should I clean our data center or data closet?