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 services plan might appear attractive—offering reduced monthly fees, basic support, and maybe some cybersecurity features included. But if you look closer, hidden expenses, limited coverage, and critical exclusions often emerge, ultimately costing you much more down the line.
After years of analyzing IT contracts for small businesses, we've identified recurring pitfalls. Here are five common ways budget MSPs cut corners—and how those shortcuts can lead to expensive problems for business owners.
1. Insufficient or Missing Cybersecurity Measures
Basic antivirus software alone does not equal comprehensive cybersecurity.
Unfortunately, many budget IT providers stop at this minimal level—no two-factor authentication, no advanced endpoint monitoring, no employee cyber awareness training, and no backup defenses if a threat bypasses initial protections.
Why is this critical? Cyber insurance companies now mandate robust cybersecurity protocols before issuing policies. Without these, your insurance claim might be denied after a breach.
We've witnessed businesses lose tens of thousands because their MSP failed to implement the cybersecurity safeguards required by their insurance. This isn't support—it's negligence.
2. Incomplete Backup Solutions That Risk Your Data
Many business owners mistakenly believe platforms like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace fully back up their data.
In reality, these services offer only basic backup features—not comprehensive disaster recovery or long-term retention solutions.
Lower-cost or inexperienced IT providers often neglect backups for cloud applications, CRMs, and third-party tools, leaving vital data exposed. Even more concerning, many don't provide immutable backups, a requirement for numerous cyber insurance policies today.
Think your backups are secure? Ask your current provider exactly what data is protected—and what isn't.
3. Hidden Charges for On-Site and After-Hours Support
A common tactic is to offer a low monthly fee but add extra charges whenever you require support outside regular business hours or need an on-site visit.
We champion transparent, flat-rate pricing. Yet many providers exclude on-site visits, after-hours assistance, and emergencies from their base plans so they can bill you later.
The outcome? You hesitate to call for help, your team delays reporting issues, and downtime—and costs—mount unnecessarily.
4. Lack of Support for Vendors and Third-Party Devices
Problems with phones, internet service, or security cameras? Some IT firms will simply say, "That's outside our scope."
They might even charge you by the hour just to coordinate with your other vendors. And if your printer or other equipment isn'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. Underqualified Technicians and No Dedicated Account Management
A major warning sign is an MSP run by a single individual or staffed with entry-level contractors lacking a strategic approach to IT support.
With budget providers, you might receive reactive assistance but miss out on proactive guidance.
What you deserve is:
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A dedicated account manager crafting a clear technology roadmap tailored to your business
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Regular evaluations of your cybersecurity, compliance, and backup systems to ensure optimal health
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Budget planning and upgrade strategy development
● A trusted advisor focused on your success—not just a ticketing system
Bottom Line: If It Sounds Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is.
Many small businesses remain unaware they are underprotected until disaster strikes—whether it's a ransomware breach, critical system failure, or costly compliance penalty.
By then, the damage is done.
If you want IT services that truly safeguard your business, look beyond just the monthly price. Ask tough questions, demand clear answers, and avoid contracts that leave you vulnerable.
Curious what your current IT contract might be missing? Let us audit your network at no cost. We'll identify any gaps, explain everything in plain language, and provide honest recommendations to strengthen your defenses.
Click here or call us at (419) 522-4001 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call.
