When it comes to IT support, businesses often face a crucial decision: should they outsource to a managed IT service provider or hire an internal IT team? Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on factors like budget, company size, and long-term IT needs. If you’re undecided about whether finding a managed IT services in Toronto or hiring an in-house IT manager, this guide will help you determine the best approach for your business.
The Benefits of Managed IT Services
- Cost Savings
One of the biggest advantages of working with a managed service provider (MSP) is cost efficiency. Hiring, training, and retaining an in-house IT team can be expensive. According to industry reports, the average salary for an IT manager in Canada is around $90,000 – $120,000 per year, while a help desk technician costs between $50,000 – $70,000 annually. This doesn’t include benefits, ongoing training, and the cost of IT tools and software. Managed IT support allows you to access a team of experts at a predictable monthly cost, which typically ranges from $100 to $300 per user per month, helping you avoid unexpected expenses. - 24/7 Monitoring and Support
With an internal IT department, your support is often limited to business hours. In contrast, a managed IT services provider offers 24/7 monitoring and support, ensuring that potential issues are identified and resolved before they impact operations. Studies show that businesses experience an average of 14 hours of IT downtime per year, costing companies $5,600 per minute on average, making proactive monitoring essential. - Access to a Team of Experts
IT is a broad field that requires expertise in areas like cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and network infrastructure. A single in-house IT employee may not have the specialized knowledge required to handle all aspects of IT. Managed IT support gives you access to a team of experts with diverse skills, ensuring that your technology is managed efficiently. For example, hiring cybersecurity experts internally can cost $120,000 – $150,000 per year, whereas an MSP includes cybersecurity services at a fraction of the cost. - Scalability and Flexibility
As your business grows, so do your IT needs. With managed IT services in Toronto, you can easily scale your IT support without the hassle of hiring and training new staff. An MSP can quickly adjust resources based on your company’s evolving requirements. - Enhanced Cybersecurity
Cyber threats are more advanced than ever, and businesses need to stay ahead of potential risks. A managed service provider can implement robust security measures, conduct regular risk assessments, and ensure compliance with industry regulations, reducing the risk of cyberattacks. Studies show that 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses, and the average cost of a data breach in 2024 was $4.8 million. MSPs help mitigate these risks with proactive security measures.
The Advantages of an Internal IT Team
- In-Depth Knowledge of Your Business
An internal IT team works exclusively for your company, meaning they have a deep understanding of your specific IT environment, business operations, company culture, and staff members. This could potentially lead to more tailored IT solutions. - Immediate On-Site Support
If your business relies heavily on on-site IT infrastructure, having an in-house team can be beneficial. They can provide immediate assistance in case of hardware failures or urgent IT issues that require hands-on troubleshooting. While hiring a good local MSP with local technicians means there is also responsive on-site support, but you still have to take travel and preparation time into account. - Greater Control Over IT Decisions
With an internal team, your business has full control over IT strategies, implementations, and priorities. This can be beneficial if you have highly specialized IT needs that require direct oversight.
How to Decide: Managed IT Services or Internal IT?
The right choice depends on your business size, budget, and IT complexity. Here are some key considerations:
- Small to Mid-Sized Businesses (SMBs): A managed IT service provider in Toronto is often the best option for SMBs due to lower costs, access to specialized expertise, and 24/7 support.
- Large Enterprises: Bigger companies with complex IT needs may benefit from a hybrid or co-managed model: Having an internal IT team for some part of the IT responsibilities while outsourcing specialized tasks to an MSP.
- Security and Compliance Requirements: If your business operates in a highly regulated industry, an MSP with cybersecurity expertise can help ensure compliance with industry standards.
- Growth Plans: If you anticipate rapid expansion, outsourced IT support offers scalability without the challenges of hiring and training additional IT staff.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between managed IT services and an internal IT team is a significant decision that impacts your business’s efficiency, security, and costs. If you’re looking for reliable managed IT support in Toronto, Connectability can help. Our team provides tailored IT solutions to ensure your business runs smoothly, securely, and efficiently. Book a discovery call today to learn how we can support your IT needs!
