July 07, 2025
You've probably heard the phrase: You get what you pay for. This is especially true in the world of IT.
At first glance, a low-cost managed IT service plan might look appealing: reduced monthly fees, basic support, and maybe some cybersecurity features included. However, a closer look often reveals hidden charges, overlooked exclusions, and insufficient protection that can end up costing your business significantly more over time.
After years of evaluating IT agreements for small businesses, we've identified recurring issues. Here are five common ways "budget" MSPs cut corners — and how these shortcuts can lead to expensive problems for business owners.
1. Inadequate or Missing Cybersecurity Measures
Simply having basic antivirus software is not sufficient cybersecurity.
Yet many inexpensive IT providers stop at just that. They skip essential protections like two-factor authentication, advanced endpoint detection, employee cybersecurity training, and fail-safe backups for breaches.
Why is this critical? Cyber insurance companies now mandate advanced cybersecurity protocols before issuing policies. Without these, your claim could be denied after a cyberattack.
We've witnessed businesses lose tens of thousands of dollars because their MSP failed to implement the necessary protections required by their insurance. This goes beyond IT support — it's negligence.
2. Incomplete Backup Solutions Leaving Your Data Vulnerable
Many business owners mistakenly believe platforms like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace automatically back up all their data.
In reality, these services offer only basic backup capabilities and do not cover comprehensive disaster recovery or long-term data retention.
Budget or inexperienced IT providers often neglect backing up cloud applications, CRMs, and third-party tools, leaving vital information unprotected. Even more concerning, many do not provide immutable backups, which are increasingly required by cyber insurance policies.
Think your backups are secure? Make sure to ask your current provider exactly what data is backed up — and what isn't.
3. Hidden Charges for On-Site and After-Hours Support
A common tactic is to advertise a low monthly fee, then add extra charges whenever you require support outside regular business hours or need an on-site visit.
We advocate for transparent, flat-rate pricing. Unfortunately, many providers exclude on-site visits, after-hours assistance, and emergency support from their base price, tacking on surprise fees later.
This leads to hesitation when calling for help, causing your team to delay support requests and increasing costly downtime.
4. No Assistance with Vendors or Third-Party Devices
If you experience issues with phones, internet, or security cameras, some IT firms will simply say, "That's outside our scope."
They may even charge hourly fees just to communicate with your other vendors. And if your printer or other devices aren't on their "approved" list, they might refuse to provide support altogether.
We provide comprehensive vendor coordination and network support for all technology connected to your business, because problems can arise from multiple sources.
5. Lack of Experienced Technicians and Account Management
A major warning sign is an MSP operated by a single individual or staffed with entry-level contractors lacking a strategic support framework.
With budget MSPs, you might receive reactive assistance, but rarely proactive guidance.
What you deserve is:
● A dedicated account manager to help you craft a clear technology roadmap
● Regular, proactive assessments of your cybersecurity, compliance, and backup systems
● Budget planning and upgrade strategies
● A trusted advisor who prioritizes your business needs over just handling support tickets
Final Thought: If It Seems Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is.
Most small businesses remain unaware of their IT vulnerabilities until a crisis hits — whether it's a ransomware attack, server failure, or a costly compliance penalty.
By then, the damage is done.
If you want IT services that truly safeguard your business, you need to look past the initial price. Ask tough questions, demand honest answers, and avoid contracts that leave you unprotected.
Curious about what your current IT agreement might be missing? Let us evaluate your network. We offer a free review of your existing IT solutions, explain any gaps clearly, and provide straightforward advice on how to strengthen your defenses.
Click here or call us at 281-367-8253 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call.
