July 07, 2025
You've probably heard the phrase: You get what you pay for. This couldn't be more true in the world of IT services.
At first glance, opting for a low-cost managed IT service might appear to be a smart financial move—offering reduced monthly fees and basic support, sometimes with a few cybersecurity features included. However, upon closer inspection, these budget options often mask hidden fees, limited coverage, and significant exclusions that could end up costing your business dearly over time.
After years of analyzing IT contracts from numerous small businesses, we've identified recurring pitfalls. Here are five common ways budget MSPs cut corners—and how those shortcuts can quickly transform into expensive problems for business owners like you.
1. Insufficient or Missing Cybersecurity Measures
Relying on basic antivirus is simply not keeping your cybersecurity safe.
Unfortunately, many low-priced IT providers stop at just this, overlooking crucial layers like two-factor authentication, advanced endpoint threat detection, employee cybersecurity training, and fallback plans for breaches.
Why is this a big deal? Cyber insurance policies often demand advanced security protocols before providing coverage. Without these in place, your insurance claims may be denied after a cyberattack.
We've witnessed businesses lose tens of thousands of dollars because their MSP never implemented the cybersecurity safeguards required by their insurer. This isn't just poor service—it borders on IT negligence.
2. Incomplete Data Backups That Risk Your Business
Many business owners assume platforms like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace automatically back up their critical data.
In reality, these tools offer only basic backup capabilities, lacking the comprehensive disaster recovery and long-term data preservation features required to keep your business safe.
Budget or inexperienced IT providers often neglect backing up key cloud applications, CRMs, and third-party services. Even worse, numerous MSPs fail to provide immutable backups, which have become essential for many cyber insurance requirements.
Think your backups are protected? Demand clarity from your current provider about exactly what data they are securing—and what remains vulnerable.
3. Hidden Charges for On-Site Visits and After-Hours Support
Here's a common bait-and-switch tactic: advertise a low monthly rate, then tack on unexpected fees whenever you need help outside standard business hours or require an in-person visit.
We stand by transparent, flat-rate pricing. However, many providers sneakily exclude on-site assistance, after-hours support, or emergency services from their base price to charge extra later.
The outcome? You hesitate to reach out for help and your team delays reporting issues, leading to increased downtime and higher costs.
4. Refusal to Assist with Vendor and Third-Party Devices
Experiencing problems with your phones, Internet, or security cameras? Some IT providers will bluntly say, "That's outside our scope."
They might even charge you hourly just to communicate with your service providers. If a device, like your printer, isn't on their "approved" list, they may outright refuse service.
We believe in comprehensive care that covers all technology interacting with your business network. IT problems often arise from diverse sources, and we're here to help with every one of them.
5. Unqualified Technicians and Lack of Proactive Account Management
Warning signs include solo operators or companies employing junior techs as contractors without a structured support strategy.
With low-budget MSPs, you may get reactive help but no strategic guidance.
What you deserve is:
● A dedicated account manager who partners with you to develop a clear technology roadmap
● Regular, proactive evaluations of your cybersecurity, compliance status, and backup integrity
● Budget planning and schedule for technology upgrades
● A trusted consultant offering advice, not just responding to support tickets
Final Thought: If an Offer Seems Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is.
The reality is small businesses often remain under-protected until disaster strikes—whether from ransomware, system failures, or compliance penalties.
By that point, the damage can be irreversible.
To secure IT support that truly shields your business, look past the price tag. Ask tough questions, insist on honest answers, and avoid contracts that leave you vulnerable.
Wondering what your current IT contract might be missing? Let us evaluate your network at no charge. We'll provide a detailed, jargon-free review highlighting any gaps and clear recommendations to strengthen your defenses.
Click here or call us now at (802) 331-1900 to schedule your FREE Discovery Call.
