July 07, 2025
You've 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—offering reduced monthly fees, basic support, and perhaps some cybersecurity features included. But if you look closer, hidden expenses, limited coverage, and overlooked risks often emerge, ultimately costing your business much more.
After years of analyzing IT contracts for small businesses, we've identified recurring pitfalls. Here are five critical ways "budget" MSPs cut corners—and how these shortcuts can lead to expensive problems for business owners.
1. Inadequate or Missing Cybersecurity Measures
Basic antivirus alone does not equate to proper cybersecurity.
Yet many budget IT providers stop there—offering no two-factor authentication, no advanced endpoint detection, no employee cybersecurity training, and no backup defenses if threats get through.
Why is this a problem? Cyber insurance companies now require robust cybersecurity protocols before issuing policies, and lacking these can lead to denied claims after an incident.
We've witnessed businesses lose tens of thousands due to MSPs failing to implement the necessary protections their insurance demanded. This is not support—it's negligence.
2. Partial or Insufficient Backup Solutions
Many business owners mistakenly believe platforms like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace fully back up their data.
In reality, these services provide only basic backup capabilities and are not designed for comprehensive disaster recovery or long-term retention.
Cost-conscious or inexperienced providers often exclude backups for cloud applications, CRMs, and third-party tools, leaving vital data vulnerable. Even worse, many don't offer immutable backups, now essential for many cyber insurance policies.
Think your backups are secure? Ask your provider exactly what data they protect—and what they don't.
3. Unexpected Charges for On-Site or After-Hours Support
A common tactic: advertise a low monthly fee, then add extra costs whenever you need support outside regular hours or require an on-site visit.
We stand for transparent, flat-rate pricing. Yet many providers exclude on-site visits, after-hours assistance, and emergency support from their base fees to increase charges later.
The impact? You hesitate to call for help, your team delays reporting issues, and downtime—and costs—increase.
4. Lack of Support for Vendors and Third-Party Devices
Problems with phones, internet, or security cameras? Some IT companies simply say, "That's outside our scope."
They may even charge hourly fees just to communicate with your other vendors. If your printer or other devices aren't on their "approved" list, they might refuse service altogether.
We provide comprehensive vendor coordination and full network support for all technology impacting your business, because issues can arise from any source.
5. Inexperienced Technicians and No Dedicated Account Management
A major warning sign is a "one-person operation" or a company relying on entry-level contractors without a strategic support plan.
With budget MSPs, you might receive reactive help but lack proactive guidance.
What you deserve is:
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A dedicated account manager to craft a tailored technology roadmap
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Regular, proactive assessments of your cybersecurity, compliance, and backup systems
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Accurate budget forecasting and upgrade planning
● A trusted advisor, not just a ticket responder
Bottom Line: If It Seems Too Good To Be True, It Probably Is.
Most small businesses don't realize they're underprotected until disaster strikes—whether a ransomware breach, server failure, or costly compliance penalty.
By then, it's often too late.
If you want IT services that truly safeguard your business, look beyond the price tag. Ask tough questions, demand clear answers, and avoid contracts that leave you vulnerable.
Wondering what your current IT contract might be missing? Let us perform a complimentary review of your network. We'll identify any gaps, explain everything in plain language, and offer honest advice on how to strengthen your defenses—at no cost to you.
Click here or call us at (802) 331-1900 to schedule your FREE Discovery Call.
