Who ARE WE?

Guardian Managed Services

We understand what small businesses need because we've been one since 1984.

If you want to know more...

About

Guardian Managed Services

Discover how our flagship service, Virtual Computer Tech, is essentially your own IT department providing robust security and 24/7 preventive maintenance managed by a local technician for about $1 a day per computer.

How we got started with the business of helping small business owners reduce the stress and frustration computers often cause?

I walked into Radio Shack In 1977 to get a calculator and came out with a TRS 80 computer that I purchased for $600 (about $3,200 today) because I saw the potential advantages of speed and automation it promised.

The learning curve was long and painful... no computer classes were available and no useful programs had been written so I spent a lot of time sitting there starring at the little 12" orange monitor that could display nothing but text.

It used a cassette recorder for memory and we upgraded to an electric typewriter and relied on carbon paper to make copies.

For whatever reason, I didn't give up and by 1984,I began to get a bit of a handle on using the computer in business. Word spread because other small business owners began asking for help and fortunately, by that time, I could help and the roots of Guardian Managed Services began to grow.

We and all small business owners today cannot do business without computers. Unfortunately, far too much time is spent trying to get our computer to work instead of using the computer to do the work.

Our job is getting technology out of your way; eliminating the stress and frustration created by slow, cranky computers. It turns out that that even lowers the cost of owning computers.

What We Offer

Proactive Support

We provide proactive maintenance and monitoring services, ensuring your systems are always running smoothly. Our automated processes and local technicians keep your technology in top shape, preventing issues before they arise.

Enterprise Level Security

Our layered security measures protect your business from cyber threats. We go beyond antivirus software, offering comprehensive protection monitored by professionals who understand your business.

Customized for You

We recognize that every small business is unique. Our services are tailored to meet your specific needs, whether you require robust security, preventive maintenance, or specialized support for industry-specific software.

Why Choose GMS?

GMS services, like Virtual Computer Tech, keeps your computers running at their maximum design speed so you can focus 100% on business.
Our mission is to move you out of the break-fix paradigm into the prevention paradigm so that small, developing problems are resolved
before they can grow into large ones like expensive downtime or even a crash.
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You choose your local technician who will manage security and preventive maintenance enterprise-level software running 24/7.

Personalized Support

You local Virtual Computer Tech gets to know you and your business. They do manage your security & maintenance software but, you can also get them to address other matters, even if it's just to answer a quick question so you can get on with your day.

No Long-Term Commitments

Professions and small businesses need to stay flexible and long-term contracts are not compatible with rapid change.

Services can be renewed monthly, quarterly or annually, whatever is best for your circumstances.

Unique Requirements

GMS is passionate about helping professionals and small businesses like ourselves thrive. We all need stable, dependable technology as much or more than big businesses because we can't function without it.

What makes GMS your ideal tech partner?

GMS (Guardian Managed Services} is our trade name for Global Concepts, Inc., the company founded in 1984 to help other small businesses begin to use computers.

Over 40 years later, our flagship service is VCT (Virtual Computer Tech), an enhanced security and 24/7 preventive maintenance service that's managed by a dedicated, local professional that you choose from our online directory.

We also provide domain registration, web hosting, backup and even premium quality VOIP phone service. Of course, not all professionals and business owners need a wide range of services but, if you do, they're available without any long-term commitment.

We take pride in offering services that meet the unique needs of professionals and business owners who don't have an in-house IT department. Our technicians get to know you and your unique need for support. This, very personal hands-on approach ensures that your business or profession will thrive without being hassled by slow, cranky computers.

Meet Our Leadership Team

Each member of our team is committed to providing technical support services designed for the unique needs of professionals and entrepreneurs. We understand the unique needs of small offices because, even thoughh we've been around for over 40 years,
we have, by design, remained small because... well, we like it that way.

Lou Smith

Founder

Judy Blackwell

Admin

Vicky Jones

Sales

Testimonials

Their combined expertise and dedication to our clients has created a powerful force for innovation and excellence

inside a culture of integrity, vision, and service.

Peggy Willett

Lou Smith is a superior technology management adviser and problem solver who helps his clients quickly get to the heart of a matter, understand a range of options to address it, and when a course of action is agreed, execute it on time, on budget and with

excellent results.

His attention to training and support after the systems or solutions are delivered, is a key element of Lou's success. He is always willing to go the extra miles in service, follow up and support, ensuring that the work at hand not only solves the immediate problem, but that it helps the clients reach their long term goals.

Lou's talent and wisdom extends beyond technology to provide thoughtful business

insights and perspective to his clients.

Senior Director, Corporate Communications, Getty Images.

Phil Dill

Lou Smith has been the computer technician for my office since 2008. In that time he has proven to be knowledgeable, efficient and customer oriented. He has shown himself to be educated in all computer and network matters that have arisen, informed regarding all potential computer and network threats and a true expert in his field.

His professional manner and capable, timely handling of my company’s needs has

further established a high regard for Lou. He has taken the time to learn the intricacies

of my company’s software, business and personal needs.

His anticipation of my company’s needs and ability to clearly answer all questions in an understandable manner has been a valuable resource. These qualities are a few of the many displayed by a respected, reliable and trustworthy business man and colleague.

President, Phil Dill Appraisals, Inc.

Denton, Texas

Vivian Castleberry

Lou brings intense focus and persistence to business, often creating unique opportunities out of what many perceive as impossible barriers. The work he has done has often served as a model for the future

Retired newspaper editor, author and historian
Dallas, Texas

Harriette Orelup

Lou Smith has been invaluable to me for years helping me navigate the technology

necessary for a business presence on-line and through the internet. He has been a

patient, tolerate teacher for this right-brained, stubborn woman, and provided day to day

upkeep, maintenance and protection for my computer.

LMT, rM, HSH
Dallas, Texas

Mary Howard

Lou was a great help to me and my husband in 1993 when we were just developing our

own business... Knowledgeable, helpful and personable then and remains so today.

Retired United Airlines executive

Tucson, Arizona

Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers!

Got questions about GMS and how we can help your business? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common questions we receive from business owners like you, along with our answers to help you understand how our services can support your business and ensure smooth operations. Learn more about how GMS can be your key to resilience and peace of mind.

How does GMS help small businesses?

We manage your computer/technology needs so you don't have to. From proactive maintenance and robust security measures to personalized support from local technicians, we ensure your systems are always up and running efficiently, allowing you to concentrate on what you do best.

Where is GMS located?

GMS is headquartered in Irving, Texas, 75014, United States, and we service customers throughout the US and Canada. Our core senior management team operates out of Texas and Florida, while our Sales and Tech associates are located across the US, with many techs residing in the states and cities of the customers we serve

Who is Lou Smith?

Lou Smith is the Founder and CEO/President of GMS Matrix. With over 70 years of experience in business and technology, Lou is passionate about helping small businesses integrate and manage their technology seamlessly. His journey began with developing the first computerized record system for the Air Force, and his vision continues to drive GMS today.

How can I get started with GMS?

Getting started with GMS is easy. We offer flexible monthly computer service subscriptions with our Virtual Computer Tech (VCT) to ensure your technology needs are met proactively. Additionally, we provide free resources like our Business Continuity Plan (BCP) checklist and personalized consultations to develop a customized plan tailored to your business needs.

What makes GMS different from other managed service providers?

At GMS, we offer personalized service with local technicians who know your business. Our proactive approach prevents issues before they arise, and our flexible monthly subscriptions mean no long-term contracts. We are dedicated to empowering small businesses with tailored solutions that fit their unique needs.

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