July 07, 2025
You've heard it before: you truly get what you invest in. This is especially true in the world of IT.
At first glance, opting for a budget-friendly managed IT service might look like a smart move—lower fees, basic assistance, and maybe some cybersecurity features included. However, beneath the surface, hidden charges, limited protections, and critical exclusions often lurk, leading to much higher costs down the road.
After years of examining IT contracts for small businesses, we've identified recurring pitfalls. Here are five common ways low-cost MSPs cut corners—and how these shortcuts can become expensive problems for your business.
1. Inadequate or Missing Cybersecurity Measures
Basic antivirus alone does not equal true cybersecurity.
Yet many budget IT providers stop there—no two-factor authentication, no advanced endpoint protection, no employee cybersecurity training, and no backup safeguards if threats bypass defenses.
Why is this critical? Cyber insurance companies now mandate robust cybersecurity protocols before issuing policies. Without them, your claim might be rejected after a cyberattack.
We've witnessed businesses face tens of thousands in losses because their MSP failed to implement the necessary protections their insurance demanded. This isn't just poor service—it's negligent IT management.
2. Incomplete Backup Solutions That Risk Your Data
Many business owners mistakenly believe platforms like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace provide full data backups.
In reality, these solutions offer only basic backup features and are not designed for comprehensive disaster recovery or long-term data retention.
Cost-conscious or inexperienced IT providers often neglect backups for cloud applications, CRMs, and third-party tools, leaving vital information vulnerable. Even worse, many lack immutable backup capabilities, a requirement for numerous cyber insurance policies.
Think your data is safe? Challenge your current provider to specify exactly what is—and isn't—being backed up.
3. Unexpected Charges for On-Site and After-Hours Support
Here's a frequent tactic: advertise a low monthly fee, then add extra costs whenever support is needed outside regular business hours or requires an on-site visit.
We advocate for transparent, all-inclusive pricing. Yet many providers exclude on-site visits, after-hours assistance, and emergency support from their base fees, leading to surprise bills.
The consequence? You hesitate to seek help, causing your team to delay critical support calls—resulting in more expensive downtime.
4. Limited Support for Vendors and Third-Party Devices
Problems with your phones, internet, or security cameras? Some IT companies will simply say, "That's outside our scope."
They might even charge hourly fees just to communicate with your other service providers. And if your printer or other devices aren't on their "approved" list, they may refuse assistance altogether.
We provide comprehensive vendor coordination and network support for all technology connected to your business—because issues can arise from any source.
5. Unqualified Technicians and Lack of Dedicated Account Management
One major warning sign: a "one-person operation" or a company employing entry-level technicians on 1099 contracts without a strategic support plan.
With budget MSPs, you might receive assistance, but rarely strategic guidance.
What you should expect includes:
● A dedicated account manager who collaborates with you to develop a tailored technology roadmap
● Proactive evaluations of your cybersecurity, compliance, and backup systems
● Budget planning and technology upgrade strategies
● A trusted technology advisor—not just a ticket-based support system
Bottom Line: If It Seems Too Good To Be True, It Probably Is.
Many small businesses remain unaware of their vulnerabilities until disaster strikes—be it ransomware, system failures, or costly compliance penalties.
By then, the damage is often irreversible.
If you want IT services that genuinely safeguard your business, don't just chase the lowest price. Ask critical questions, demand clear answers, and avoid contracts that leave you exposed.
Curious about the gaps in your current IT setup? Let us conduct a thorough review of your network. We'll analyze your existing IT solutions at no cost, highlight any vulnerabilities, and offer straightforward, jargon-free advice on how to strengthen your defenses.
Click here or call us at 404-719-5222 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call.
