Cloud managed services are an IT model where some to all cloud management and maintenance tasks are outsourced to a management provider. This approach abstracts away complexity, allowing businesses to focus on their core processes without worrying about structural IT issues. There are four primary types of cloud managed services: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), Database as a Service (DBaaS), and Serverless Computing. Each type offers different levels of abstraction, technical expertise required, benefits, best for, and risks associated with it. Cloud managed services work by outsourcing IT management to a third-party provider, who handles tasks such as deployment, configuration, system updates, security, backup, recovery, and availability. The choice of cloud managed service depends on the specific use case, industry requirements, and the need for customization options. Companies should consider factors such as expertise, certifications, industry alignment, SLA, support provided, and automation when selecting a cloud managed service provider. The future of cloud managed services is expected to see significant changes in AI/ML integration, multi-cloud orchestration, platform engineering, and sustainability. With the right expert guide, companies can navigate the complexities of cloud infrastructure and focus on delivering value.