Let’s be real – managed services can be a bit of a mystery. As an MSP ourselves, we’ve heard it all: “You just fix computers, right?” or “Aren’t MSPs only for big corporations?” The truth is, there are a lot of misconceptions out there about what MSPs actually do – and we totally get it.
IT support isn’t always the most visible part of a business, and unless you’ve worked with an MSP, it’s easy to assume we’re just tech troubleshooters. So, we thought we’d shed some light on the most common myths and give you a peek behind the scenes of MSP life.
Myth #1: MSPs Replace Internal IT Teams
Reality: MSPs don’t exist to push internal IT teams out – they’re often brought in to support and strengthen them. While some organizations do rely on MSPs to fully manage their IT environments, many simply use them to fill in the gaps, offload routine tasks, or bring in specialized expertise. In fact, MSPs frequently work alongside internal teams, helping them stay focused on strategic initiatives instead of getting bogged down by day-to-day maintenance.
And in some cases (or maybe it’s just us), MSPs even help businesses build their IT departments from the ground up – offering guidance, assisting with hiring, and stepping in as a temporary virtual CIO (vCIO) when leadership is needed. It’s all about meeting organizations where they are and helping them grow into where they want to be.
Myth #2: MSPs Just Fix Computers
Reality: While break/fix support is part of the job, it’s far from the whole story. Depending on how a business utilizes an MSP, they can support your users day-to-day, provide strategic guidance, and unburden internal IT teams.
A good portion of an MSP’s playbook includes proactive system monitoring, cybersecurity management, compliance support, performance optimization, and scalable tech planning. MSPs help businesses stay ahead of issues, budget more effectively, and align technology with long-term goals.
So no, we’re not just the folks who show up when your computer crashes – we’re strategic partners who care about your business and want technology to fuel your goals.
Myth #3: MSPs Are Only for Big Companies
Reality: Not true – and not even close. While some MSPs do specialize in serving large enterprises, many focus on supporting small to mid-sized businesses. Every MSP has its own niche, and for a lot of providers, SMBs are the sweet spot.
Here’s the thing: smaller organizations often assume they’re “too small” to qualify for managed services, or that having an internal IT person means they don’t need outside help. But MSPs can offer high-level support, access to a deep bench of certified techs, and strategic guidance that helps businesses plan, budget, and grow smarter.
For SMBs, working with an MSP isn’t just about keeping the lights on, it’s about making informed tech decisions that support growth, reduce risk, and stretch every dollar further.
Myth #4: MSPs Are Too Expensive
Reality: It’s easy to see an MSP partnership as just another expense, but in reality, it’s an investment. An investment in your business, your security, and even in your team.
MSPs help reduce downtime, prevent costly security breaches, and streamline operations – all of which can save money in the long run. But here’s the part that often gets overlooked: managed services don’t have to be all-or-nothing. Many MSPs offer flexible engagement models that let businesses start small and scale as needed.
Need help with a one-off project? Looking for procurement support? Want to outsource just a few pieces of your IT puzzle? That’s all on the table. Whether it’s a fully managed solution or a few targeted services, MSPs can tailor their offerings to fit your goals and your budget.
So yes, there’s a cost, but it’s one that’s designed to deliver value, not just a bill.
Myth #5: MSPs Don’t Understand Our Business
Reality: The good ones do. And they make it a priority.
A strong MSP-client relationship isn’t just about tech – it’s about trust, communication, and alignment. To truly support an organization, an MSP should take the time to understand what the business does, how it operates, and how technology fits into its mission and goals. That context is key to delivering solutions that actually make sense.
It’s not just about plugging in tools – it’s about tailoring them. Whether it’s compliance requirements, customer experience goals, or internal workflows, MSPs that dig into the details can offer smarter, more strategic support.
At the end of the day, it’s a partnership. And like any good partnership, the more an MSP understands the business, the better they can help it succeed.
Myth #6: MSPs Only Work Remotely
Reality: Remote support is a major part of what MSPs do, but it’s not the only way they show up.
The truth is, not every business is going to be right down the street. MSPs are built to be accessible – whether you’re across town or across the country. A large percentage of client needs (think software issues, user support, system monitoring, cybersecurity, and more) can be handled remotely, quickly, and efficiently.
But that doesn’t mean MSPs won’t travel. When on-site help is needed, whether it’s for a hardware install, network setup, or just a situation that’s best handled in person – MSPs can provide that support or coordinate with trusted local partners to make it happen.
The goal is simple: support should be available wherever and whenever it’s needed. That’s why we embrace a “we’re already there” mindset. Whether your business is remote, hybrid, or constantly on the move, managed services are designed to keep IT easy – everywhere.
Myth #7: MSPs Are Just Tech Vendors
Reality: MSPs aren’t just here to push products, they’re here to help businesses make smarter technology decisions.
Yes, MSPs often recommend tools, platforms, and hardware – but it’s not about hype. In many cases, those recommendations come from long-standing vendor relationships that allow MSPs to offer better pricing, bundled services, or insider access to support and resources. It’s about getting the right tools at the right value.
And let’s be honest, your devices are your lifeline! Your team can only work as well as their tech allows them to. MSPs help businesses roll out refreshes and upgrades in a way that’s strategic, budget-conscious, and aligned with long-term goals.
Myth #8: MSPs Don’t Prioritize Security
Reality: Security isn’t just a priority for MSPs, it’s the foundation of everything they do.
Cybersecurity isn’t optional. Threats evolve constantly, and businesses of every size are potential targets. That’s why MSPs put such a strong focus on protecting their clients’ systems, data, and users. From firewalls and endpoint protection to backup solutions and compliance protocols, security is baked into every layer of managed services.
Your attack surface should always be top of mind, and keeping your organization safe is a shared responsibility. That means your users, your MSP, and your leadership team all play a role in maintaining a secure environment.
A good MSP doesn’t just react to threats – they help you stay ahead of them. They educate users, monitor systems, and build strategies that evolve with the risks.
Final Thoughts
We know Managed Service Providers can seem a little mysterious from the outside. But behind the scenes, we’re just a team of people who care deeply about helping businesses thrive through technology. If any of these myths sounded familiar, we hope this helped clear things up – and maybe even sparked a few ideas about how we could support your team.
Curious what a partnership with an MSP could look like for your organization? Whether you’re exploring options, need help with a specific project, or just want to talk strategy, it’s worth having the conversation. You might be surprised at how much ground you can cover – with the right partner by your side.
