You’ve heard it before: “You get what you pay for.” But when it comes to IT support, what you don’t pay for can cost you everything.
At first glance, a low-cost managed IT provider might seem like a smart move—especially when budgets are tight and inboxes are full. But for small and midsize businesses in the Fargo–Moorhead area, especially those in healthcare or professional services, cutting corners on technology support can lead to painful surprises: compliance fines, downtime, and data loss.
Let’s peel back the curtain on what “cheap” IT really means.
1. Cybersecurity So Basic It’s Barely There
If your IT guy installed antivirus and called it a day, your business is wide open. Budget providers often skip:
- Two-factor authentication
- Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
- HIPAA-compliant backup systems
- Cybersecurity awareness training for staff
We’ve seen clinics here in Fargo denied cyber insurance coverage because their MSP failed to implement the minimum required protections. That’s not just a missed checkbox—that’s a lawsuit waiting to happen.
2. Backups That Skip the Most Important Data
Think your Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace is backing everything up? Think again. Many “budget” IT providers overlook:
- Cloud apps like EHR or CRMs
- Third-party billing platforms
- Immutable backups required by insurers
Ask your provider this: If we got hit with ransomware today, how fast could we recover everything—and prove it?
3. Surprise Fees That Hit When You’re Most Vulnerable
Ever opened an invoice and thought, “Wait, why are we paying extra for this?” Some MSPs charge extra for:
- After-hours support (even if your system crashes on a weekend)
- On-site visits (yes, even to fix their own mistakes)
- Emergency response (when time matters most)
Flat-rate pricing isn’t just about budgeting—it’s about trust. If you have to second-guess calling for help, the system’s already broken.
4. “Not Our Problem” Vendor Support
Printer offline? Internet glitching? Phone system acting up? A good IT partner helps coordinate with all your vendors. A budget one? They’ll tell you, “That’s not covered.”
When every system connects—phones, copiers, security cams—you need a partner who sees the full picture, not someone who draws a box around what they’ll touch.
5. No Strategy, No Accountability
Here’s a red flag: You’ve never heard from your IT company unless something’s on fire.
That’s not partnership. That’s passive support.
What you should be getting:
- A named account manager who knows your team
- Regular reviews of your security, compliance, and recovery posture
- Forecasting for upgrades and budget planning
- Strategic guidance—not just “fix-it” tickets
Here’s the Truth…
Most small businesses in our region don’t realize they’re vulnerable until the worst happens—a ransomware attack, a HIPAA violation, or a billing system failure. And by then, it’s too late.
Don’t let low prices lull you into a false sense of security. Ask the tough questions. Demand transparency. And make sure your IT partner has your back before the storm rolls in.
If you’re wondering whether your current setup would actually protect you when it counts, we’ll take a look—no pressure, no jargon, no “gotcha” sales pitch. Just honest answers from a local team who understands the weight you carry.
Click here book your FREE IT Risk Assessment.
