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, opting for a low-cost managed IT services plan might appear to save you money—offering reduced monthly fees, basic support, and perhaps some cybersecurity features. However, a closer look often reveals hidden charges, limited coverage, and critical exclusions that end up costing your business much more over time.
After years of analyzing IT contracts 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 your company.
1. Insufficient or Missing Cybersecurity Measures
Basic antivirus software does not equate to robust cybersecurity.
Yet many budget IT providers stop there—no two-factor authentication, no advanced endpoint protection, no employee training, and no fallback defenses if threats slip through.
Why is this critical? Cyber insurance companies now mandate advanced cybersecurity protocols before issuing policies. Without these, your insurance claim could be denied following an incident.
We've witnessed businesses lose tens of thousands due to MSPs failing to implement the necessary protections required by insurance policies. This is not support; it's negligence.
2. Incomplete Backup Solutions That Expose Your Data
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 data retention.
Low-cost or inexperienced providers often omit backups for cloud applications, CRMs, and third-party systems, leaving vital data vulnerable. Even worse, many fail to offer immutable backups, which are now essential for most cyber insurance requirements.
Think your backups are secure? Ask your current provider exactly what they protect—and what they don't.
3. Hidden Charges for On-Site Visits and After-Hours Support
A common tactic is to advertise a low monthly fee but add extra costs whenever you require support outside regular hours or an on-site visit.
We champion transparent, all-inclusive pricing. However, many providers exclude on-site assistance, after-hours support, and emergency services from their base fees so they can bill you 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 Equipment
Problems 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. If your printer or device isn'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 multiple sources.
5. Lack of Experienced Technicians and Account Management
A major warning sign is a "one-person operation" or a company relying on entry-level contractors without a clear support strategy.
With budget MSPs, you might receive assistance, but you won't get strategic guidance.
What you deserve is:
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A dedicated account manager to develop your technology roadmap
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Regular proactive evaluations of your cybersecurity, compliance, and backup systems
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Budget planning and upgrade advice
● A trusted technology advisor—not just a help desk ticket processor
Bottom Line: If It Seems Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is.
Many small businesses remain unaware of their vulnerabilities until disaster strikes—whether a ransomware attack, a hardware failure, or a hefty compliance penalty.
By that point, the damage is done.
If you want IT services that truly safeguard your business, you must look beyond the sticker price. Ask tough questions, demand clear answers, and avoid contracts that leave you exposed.
Curious about what your current IT contract might be missing? Let us review your network at no cost. We'll identify any gaps, explain them in plain language, and provide straightforward advice on how to protect your business better.
Click here or call us at (210) 582-5814 to schedule your FREE Discovery Call.
