When it comes to IT, many businesses fall into a familiar trap: they attempt to save money by choosing the cheapest option available. While this might seem like a smart move initially, cutting corners in IT often leads to significant and costly issues down the line. From cyberattacks and downtime to compliance failures and lost opportunities for strategic growth, cheap IT services frequently ends up costing far more than it saves.
Why businesses cut IT costs
IT often fades into the background when everything appears to be running smoothly, which is why businesses could see it as a potential area for cost-cutting, especially when you’re expected to do more with less. This often leads to relying on a low-cost managed service provider (MSP), asking admin staff to handle IT tasks on the side, or delaying critical upgrades. While these measures might provide short-term savings, they come with hidden risks that can result in disruption, data loss, and even financial ruin.
The real risks of cheap IT services:
1. Security gaps and data breaches
Budget IT providers often skip proactive cybersecurity measures, leaving your business vulnerable to serious threats like ransomware, phishing and insider attacks. Without 24/7 monitoring, robust endpoint detection, patch updates, and advanced email security, your systems are prime targets for cybercriminals. According to IBM’s Cost of Data Breach Report 2024, the global average cost of a data breach hit $4.45 million, a 10% increase year-over-year. Beyond the financial hit, breaches erode customer trust, damage your brand reputation, and create legal exposure.
Mercian Labels, a long-established label manufacturer, struggled with unreliable systems and security gaps due to outdated IT infrastructure. After partnering with Air IT, they experienced a dramatic improvement in stability, system performance, and data protection. With proactive monitoring, robust backup solutions, and improved cybersecurity, they now operate confidently in a secure and resilient IT environment.
2. Downtime that disrupts productivity
Slow systems, unresolved issues, and long waits for resolution are common with low-tier IT providers. Every hour of downtime directly impacts productivity and customer satisfaction, eating into your revenue and harming your reputation. According to Gartner, the average cost of IT downtime is a staggering £4,000 per minute, a cost that adds up quickly without proactive IT solutions.
3. No strategic IT planning
Cheap IT services often focuses solely on fixing problems as they arise, rather than helping you avoid them. This leaves your business without:
- A long-term IT roadmap
- Guidance on cloud migration or automation
- Plans for digital transformation
Without strategic oversight, businesses are left with disconnected tools, outdated systems and missed opportunities for growth.
4. Compliance failures
Regulatory compliance, whether it’s GDPR, FCA, ISO 27001, or industry specific standards, is no longer optional. Cheap providers often lack the knowledge and resources to help you meet those standards.
At Air IT, we ensure clients meet requirements through the Cyber Essentials scheme, ISO 27001-certified practices, and ongoing audits for peace of mind. Non-compliance can lead to fines, lawsuits, and loss of business, outcomes no company can afford.
.
5. False savings: You’ll pay twice
Many businesses that opt for low-cost IT services end up paying twice, first for the budget provider and later for a professional MSP to clean up the mess. Emergency recovery costs, lost business, and a damaged brand can wipe out years of savings in a matter of days.
What quality IT support looks like
The alternative to cheap IT services is investing in a trusted partner that prioritises protecting your operations, empowering your people, and driving long-term value with technology. At Air IT, our approach includes:
- Proactive support and 24/7 monitoring: Ensures issues are resolved before they impact your business.
- Built-in robust cybersecurity measures: Includes advanced endpoint detection, email security, and penetration testing.
- Fast, expert response times: Minimises disruption and ensures smooth business operations.
- Strategic IT roadmaps: Aligning technology investments with your long-term business goals.
- Scalable solutions: Grow your IT as your business expands.
We’re proud to be a Microsoft Solutions Partner, ISO 9001 & 27001 certified, and consistently ranked as a top UK MSP by CRN and Channel Futures.
Think value, not just cost
IT isn’t just an operational necessity; it’s a crucial element of your business success. While cutting corners might seem like a short-term win, it’s often a long-term liability. Investing in quality IT services ensures your systems are secure, your business is compliant, and your technology strategy is aligned with your business goals.
Not sure whether your current IT setup is protecting or hurting your business? Let us help.
Book a free, no-obligation IT audit with one of our certified experts. We’ll review your infrastructure, identify gaps and show you how to get more value from your technology, securely and strategically.
