Break-Fix vs. Managed IT: Which Is Right for Your Business?
Two Approaches to IT Support
When it comes to IT support, small to medium size businesses generally face a choice between two models:
Break-Fix IT Support – You call for help when something goes wrong.
Managed IT Services (MSP) – You pay a fixed monthly fee for proactive, ongoing support.
Both approaches aim to keep your business running smoothly, but they differ significantly in cost, approach, and long-term value. At SolvIT, we’ve helped clients transition from break-fix to managed services and the difference is often transformational.
What Is Break-Fix IT Support?
Break-fix is the traditional "pay-as-you-go" model. You contact an IT provider only when there's a problem, such as a crashed server, malware infection, or failed backup. You’re billed hourly or per incident.
Pros of Break-Fix:
💸 No monthly commitment
📞 Use only when needed
🔧 Works for very small businesses with minimal IT needs
Cons of Break-Fix:
⌛ Reactive, not proactive - issues may already be causing damage
💰 Unpredictable costs (some emergencies are very expensive)
🛑 No system monitoring or early warning
📉 Downtime is more likely and usually longer
🔒 No strategic planning or cybersecurity enhancements
What Are Managed IT Services?
Managed IT is a subscription-based model where your provider proactively maintains and monitors your entire IT environment—preventing issues before they affect your business. You get support, security, backups, and consulting all bundled into one predictable monthly fee.
Pros of Managed IT:
✅ Proactive maintenance and monitoring
🔐 Stronger cybersecurity protections
⏱️ Faster response and resolution times
📈 Scalable as your business grows
💬 Strategic IT consulting and budgeting
💸 Fixed monthly cost = budget stability
🧘 Peace of mind knowing your tech is handled
Cons of Managed IT:
💲Monthly investment (but often lower total cost over time)
📋 Requires onboarding and upfront setup
Risk of choosing the wrong MSP
Why Many Businesses Are Shifting to Managed IT
In today's fast-paced digital world, businesses can't afford downtime, data loss, or security breaches. The break-fix model leaves too much to chance.
Managed IT Services from SolvIT give businesses:
Predictability in costs and performance
Protection against threats like ransomware and phishing
Partnership with a team that understands your business goals
Productivity from systems that just work
Which Should You Choose?
If your business:
Is highly dependent on technology
Handles sensitive data (e.g., customer records, financials, health info)
Can’t afford downtime or delayed support
Is planning for growth
…then Managed IT Services is almost always the smarter, safer choice.
If your IT needs are very minimal and downtime wouldn’t impact your operations significantly, break-fix might still be workable, but it's becoming less viable in a world of rising cyber threats and digital reliance.
📞 Ready to Move Beyond Break-Fix?
Let SolvIT show you how Managed IT can reduce risk, improve productivity, and help your business thrive. Schedule your free introduction meeting now!
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