We now live in a world where IT support is no longer a convenience but a necessity.
Surprisingly, the real cost of IT support for small businesses is still often misunderstood or underestimated.
Many small business owners find themselves caught between needing reliable IT systems and managing expenses.
A recent study revealed that small businesses lose, on average, $427 per minute due to IT downtime
To help you make the most informed decision, this blog will break down the cost of IT support services, explain key pricing models, and present how to choose the best option for your business.
What Is the Actual Cost of IT Support?
When you think of the cost of IT support for your business, the first question that comes to mind is likely, “How much is this going to cost?”
The answer depends on several factors, from the scope of services you need to your IT provider’s pricing model.
What influences the cost of IT support includes:
- The kind of help you need, such as daily assistance or planning for the future
- The length and terms of your agreement
- The fees the IT support company charges
- If the cost is calculated by the number of people or computers involved
For small businesses, managed services costs can range from $110 to $400 per user per month
For businesses with 25 to 99 employees (small) and 100 to 700 employees (medium-sized), it’s important to first figure out exactly what IT support you need. This might cover:
- Installing and managing your computer network
- Keeping software up to date
- Solving tech issues as they arise
- Saving copies of your important data
- Watching for and protecting against security risks
- Setting up security protections
- Taking care of your website or online services
Managed IT support companies (MSPs) offer tailored plans based on your specific needs. They typically charge a monthly fee that depends on how many employees or devices they’re supporting for your business.
In the next section below, we’ll explore some of the critical factors that affect the average cost of IT support services.
In a Nutshell: Factors That Affect the Average Cost of IT Support Services
When it comes to the average cost of IT support services, several factors come into play. These include the type and amount of services you need, the length of your contract with the provider, their fee structure, how they bill for services, the complexity of your IT systems, whether you use an in-house team or outsource, and the level of expertise your IT support requires.
Here’s a breakdown of these factors, along with strategies to manage costs and who each factor is ideally suited for:
Factor | Description | Cost-Control Strategies | Ideal for |
Service Scope | What IT services are provided and how complex they are | Focus on must-have services first, expand as needed | Businesses scaling up or with changing needs |
Contract Duration | How long the service agreement lasts | Choose contracts that can change with your needs | Businesses looking for flexibility |
Provider’s Pricing | How much the IT support provider charges | Shop around to find the best rates | Cost-conscious businesses |
Pricing Model | How you’re billed, like per user or server | Pick a billing model that matches how you use services | Businesses with variable usage |
IT Infrastructure Complexity | How complex and unique your IT setup is | Simplify and standardize your IT systems where possible | Businesses with complex IT needs |
In-House vs. Outsourced | Using your own team or an external provider | Consider the long-term costs and benefits of each | Businesses weighing cost vs. control |
Expertise Required | The specialization level needed for IT support | Train your team or find providers with the right skills | Businesses with specific IT needs |
Choosing the right IT services for your business depends on what you already have in place. This includes if you have an IT team, what kind of IT help you’re missing, and whether you need special skills.
Besides figuring out how much IT support you need, companies also have to choose how they want to pay for managed IT services.
In the next section below, we’ll explore the three major IT support pricing models that are available.
IT Support Pricing Models
When it comes to IT support costs for small business, there are various models that companies offer to fit different business needs. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision.
1. Flat Rate or All-Inclusive Pricing:
This model offers a set monthly fee covering all services. It’s ideal for small businesses looking for predictability in expenses. Flat-rate pricing usually covers help desk support, maintenance, and basic security, with higher-tier services like cybersecurity coming at a premium.
2. Pay-Per-Use or Break-Fix Pricing:
Infrequent IT issues may justify a break-fix model. In this model, you pay for IT services as and when needed, often between $150 and $250 per hour
3. Per-User or Per-Device Pricing:
Managed Service Providers (MSPs) often charge based on the number of users or devices. On average, you might pay $100 per workstation and $200 per server
Pricing Model | Cost Range | Best for |
Flat Rate/All-Inclusive | $2,000 – $3,000/month | Small to mid-sized businesses |
Pay-Per-Use/Break-Fix | $150 – $250/hour | Businesses with rare IT needs |
Per-User/Per-Device | $100 – $200/device | Growing businesses with multiple users |
By selecting a pricing model that fits your usage, you can significantly control your small business IT support cost.
Small Business IT Downtime Costs $427 Per Minute! Don’t let IT failures drain your profits—get expert help today. |
A Quick Breakdown of the Average Cost of IT Support for Small Businesses
Understanding the true breakdown of IT support costs is essential. Here’s a general look at the different components:
Cost Component | Average Cost | Details |
IT Network Setup | $1,000 – $3,000 | Initial setup of network hardware and software |
Software Licensing | $15 – $200/user/month | Depends on software complexity (e.g., Microsoft 365) |
Cybersecurity | $500 – $2,500/month | Varies based on size and risk level |
Data Backup and Recovery | $150 – $500/month | Ensures data protection and quick recovery times |
This breakdown helps small business owners understand where their money is going and which areas they should prioritize based on their needs.
Comparing the Average Cost of IT Support for Small Business
The average cost of IT support for small business can vary dramatically depending on whether you opt for managed services or self-managed systems.
Managed services offer a proactive approach to maintenance and security, whereas self-management may initially seem cheaper but often leads to higher costs in the long run.
Managed Services: Recurring Costs
Managed services provide continuous IT support and maintenance, with average monthly costs ranging between $1,200 and $2,000+, depending on your business size and complexity
This model often includes help desk support, security management, and routine system updates, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
Self-Managed Costs
On the other hand, businesses that choose to handle IT internally can expect to spend about $42.31 per hour per IT staff member. However, this doesn’t include benefits, training, or equipment costs, making it less predictable than outsourcing.
IT Support Average Cost Calculator
Hourly Costs for Different Types of IT Support
The hourly cost of IT support services varies based on the complexity of the task and the expertise required.
For general IT issues, expect rates between $150 and $250 per hour. Specialized services like cybersecurity, network architecture, or compliance consulting can exceed $300 per hour.
One-off IT projects might seem affordable at first glance, but for sustained, quality service, managed contracts often deliver better value over time.
Managing IT Support Expenses
For small businesses, managing IT support costs is not just about negotiating a lower price. It’s about optimizing resources.
One of the best ways to cut down on IT expenses is to standardize your infrastructure. Keeping software and hardware up to date prevents issues from escalating into costly emergencies.
Outsourcing IT support allows you to leverage specialist expertise without the costs of full-time employees, equipment, or training. Small businesses that switch to managed services often report savings between 25% and 50% annually
Optimizing Your IT Support Costs with Expert Help
When considering how to manage the cost of IT support for small businesses, it’s crucial to weigh the immediate costs against long-term benefits.
Managed IT services offer predictable pricing and peace of mind, while self-managed systems might introduce hidden costs and inefficiencies.
Want to make the move today? Contact CloudSecureTech to connect you with vetted IT support providers that understand your business needs.
More articles you might like: |
Common Questions About IT Support Costs for Small Business
What IT Support Costs Can Business Owners Expect?
On average, business owners can expect monthly IT support expenses ranging from $1,200 to $3,000, depending on the size and complexity of their IT infrastructure
How Much Does it Cost to Have IT Support?
For businesses that opt for on-demand IT services, the cost of hiring IT support could range from $125 to $250 per hour. Managed services tend to cost more initially but offer more value over time.
How Much Does Technology Cost for a Small Business?
Small businesses should plan for technology costs that include hardware, software, and maintenance. For example, cybersecurity costs alone can range from $500 to $2,500 per month, depending on the complexity.
How Much Should IT Management Cost?
For businesses that prefer in-house IT management, salaries can quickly add up. The average salary for an IT manager in the U.S. is around $88,000 per year, with benefits increasing this cost.
How Much Should a Small Business Spend on IT?
It’s recommended that small businesses allocate between 6% and 8% of their annual budget to IT, depending on their industry and technological dependence.
Find a Trusted Managed IT Services Provider Near You |