You know the saying: You get what you pay for. And nowhere is that more obvious than in IT services.
On the surface, a cheaper managed IT services agreement might seem like smart budgeting: lower monthly costs, basic support, maybe even some security tools thrown in. But look closer, and you'll often find hidden costs, service gaps, and weak coverage that ends up costing you far more down the road.
After years of working with Tampa Bay businesses, we've seen the same problems show up repeatedly. Below are five of the most common ways "budget" providers cut corners -- and how those shortcuts become expensive problems for business owners.
1. Basic Antivirus Isn't Real Security
Installing antivirus software and calling it "cybersecurity" is like putting a bike lock on a bank vault door.
Yet that's what many low-cost IT providers do. No multi-factor authentication, no advanced threat detection, no employee security training, and no backup plan when something gets through.
Why does this matter? Cyber insurance companies now require specific security measures before they'll write you a policy. If those aren't in place when you file a claim, you could be left covering the full cost of an attack.
We've seen Tampa businesses face significant losses because their IT provider never implemented the protections their insurance required. That's not support -- it's a liability.
2. Backups That Miss Critical Data
Most business owners assume Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace automatically backs up everything.
They don't. These platforms have limited retention and recovery options that won't meet your needs in a real disaster.
Budget IT providers often skip backing up cloud applications, customer databases, and specialized software, leaving critical business data unprotected. Many also don't provide immutable backups -- backups that can't be altered or deleted -- which are increasingly required by insurance carriers.
Think your data is fully protected? Ask your current provider for a complete list of what they're backing up -- and what they're not.
3. Hidden Fees for Real Support
Here's a common tactic: quote a low monthly rate, then charge extra whenever you need support outside regular hours or when someone needs to visit your office.
At Newgentek, we believe in straightforward, predictable pricing. But many providers exclude on-site visits, after-hours help, and emergency response from their base pricing, then hit you with fees when you need them most.
The result? Your team hesitates to call for help, problems get worse, and downtime costs mount while you're trying to avoid support charges.
4. "Not Our Problem" Vendor Support
Having issues with your phone system, internet connection, or security cameras? Some IT companies will simply point you to the vendor's support line.
They'll charge you hourly rates just to coordinate with your other vendors. And if a device is connected to your network but not on their "approved" list, they might refuse to help entirely.
We handle vendor coordination and support for all technology that impacts your business, because technology problems rarely stay in neat categories.
5. No Strategic Planning or Account Management
One of the biggest warning signs? Working with a provider who only responds to problems instead of preventing them.
With budget providers, you might get technical support, but you won't get strategic guidance.
What you should be getting:
- Regular technology planning sessions to align IT with your business goals
- Proactive security reviews and compliance assessments
- Budget forecasting for upgrades and improvements
- A technology partner, not just a help desk
The Real Cost of Cheap IT
Most Tampa Bay businesses don't realize they're underprotected until something fails -- a security breach, data loss, or compliance audit.
By then, the damage is done.
If you want IT that actually protects and supports your business growth, you need to look beyond the monthly price. Ask detailed questions. Get specific answers. And don't settle for a contract that leaves you exposed.
Want to know if your current IT setup has gaps? We'll review your technology environment at no cost, identify any vulnerabilities, and give you straightforward recommendations -- no technical jargon, no sales pressure.
Click here to schedule your FREE Network Assessment.
