IT Support Options for Small Businesses

IT Support Options for Small Businesses

A Simple Guide to Finding the Right IT Support for Your Small Business

If you know your small business needs IT support but are not sure where to start, this guide is for you. Whether your focus is on cybersecurity, supporting remote work, network management, or enhancing collaboration, we are here to simplify the decision-making process for you.

Today, small businesses have three main options for IT support:

1. In-house IT support

2. Fully managed outsourced IT support via a Managed Service Provider (MSP)

3. A Co-Managed IT arrangement (a blend of in-house and outsourced support)

Each option offers unique advantages, so let us break down each one to help you determine the best fit.

Option 1: In-house IT Support

Having an IT person on-site every day is beneficial. They will know the ins and outs of your systems and be available to help as issues arise. However, hiring a full-time IT employee or building a small team is a significant expense for a small business, usually starting at $55,000 to $70,000 per year for a single technician.

Realistically, a small IT team, rather than a solo technician, is better for addressing the wide range of modern business tech needs—from cybersecurity to network management and software troubleshooting. Hiring and managing this team, however, requires both time and financial commitment. All costs, including employee benefits, hardware, software, and operational infrastructure, fall on the business.

Option 2: Fully Managed IT Support with a Managed Service Provider (MSP)

Outsourcing IT to a Managed Service Provider is an increasingly popular option among small businesses looking to keep costs predictable and focus on their core operations. MSPs provide a full team of IT specialists on a single monthly retainer, covering everything from cybersecurity to network management. Compared to in-house hiring, MSPs offer 24/7 support, proactive maintenance, and consistent monthly costs. Many MSPs also offer hardware-as-a-service (HaaS), leasing and maintaining necessary tech equipment as part of their service package.

The advantages of a long-term partnership with an MSP are clear. MSPs not only resolve IT issues but can also develop IT strategies, identify vulnerabilities, and help align tech with your business goals. They manage updates, provide security against threats, and offer scalable support to grow with you.

Option 3: Co-Managed IT Support

Co-managed IT is a hybrid solution that combines an MSP’s expertise with your in-house team. For many growing businesses, co-managed IT is an ideal middle ground: it allows an in-house technician to focus on day-to-day support while the MSP manages specialized needs like cybersecurity, VoIP setup, and cloud management.

This setup is especially useful if you have an overextended IT employee or small team. MSPs can supplement their work by providing additional support during complex projects, bolstering cybersecurity, and ensuring compliance. With co-managed support, you get the best of both worlds: the convenience of in-house support with the expertise of a full IT team, without the excessive cost of hiring additional staff.

Factors to Consider When Choosing IT Support

Each business is unique, so when deciding which IT support model is right for you, consider these factors:

1. Level of Support Needed Determine your core IT needs, including specialized services like cybersecurity and compliance.

2. Cost Balance what you can invest in with the quality of service your business requires.

3. Operational vs. Capital Expenses Managed services reduce capital expenses by packaging IT needs into predictable monthly payments.

4. Managerial Control Decide how direct you want to be in managing IT. MSPs offer a hands-off approach, while in-house support provides daily oversight.

5. Cybersecurity and Compliance Small businesses are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals. MSPs offer continuous monitoring, data backup, and compliance support to minimize risks.

Explore Our IT Services

If you would like to learn more about which IT support option might best fit your business, Honorbound IT offers a free IT Network consultation that provides a custom estimate based on your needs, along with a complimentary strategy session to answer questions and provide personalized advice.

Ready to find the right IT solution for your business? Contact us today, 877-686-6642 to see how we can help secure, support, and grow your business with the best-fit IT solution.

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