IT downtime can disrupt operations and lead to significant financial losses!
A study by Gartner found that the average cost of IT downtime is $5,600 per minute, which translates to over $300,000 hourly. With technology playing a crucial role in business continuity, relying on the wrong IT support model can lead to inefficiencies, increased costs, and lost productivity.
Patrick Birt, President and Owner of AdRem Systems Corporation, says, “Businesses today need more than just quick fixes. They need IT solutions that ensure stability, security, and long-term growth.”
This blog explores the break fix vs managed services debate, helping you determine which model aligns best with your business needs.
Gain Stability, Security, and Predictable IT Costs with AdRem’s Managed ServicesLeverage proactive IT management, continuous system monitoring, and expert support to keep operations seamless. |
What Are Break Fix Services and How Do They Work?
Break fix services follow a reactive approach to IT support. Businesses only contact an IT provider when something goes wrong. The provider then troubleshoots and resolves the issue, billing for time and materials.
This model works like calling a plumber when a pipe bursts. You don’t pay for ongoing maintenance. Instead, you only spend money when you need repairs. This upfront cost sounds cost-effective, but it has several hidden risks.
Key Features of Break Fix Services
- No ongoing maintenance: There is no proactive system monitoring. Issues are only addressed after they cause disruptions.
- Variable costs: Businesses pay for each service call, making IT expenses unpredictable.
- Uncertain response times: Since break fix providers serve multiple clients, urgent requests may face delays.
- Limited strategic IT planning: Businesses only receive support for immediate problems, not long-term improvements.
While this model may seem budget-friendly for businesses with minimal IT needs, it often leads to unexpected downtime and costly emergency fixes.
Why the Break Fix Model Is Declining
As IT infrastructures become more complex, break-fix services struggle to keep up with evolving security threats and operational demands.
Several challenges make this model increasingly unsustainable:
High Risk of Downtime and Revenue Loss
Since there’s no proactive monitoring, IT issues often escalate before they’re addressed. If a server fails or a cybersecurity incident occurs, businesses must wait for a technician to diagnose and resolve the problem.
During this time, operations may come to a standstill, resulting in financial losses and customer dissatisfaction.
Rising Cybersecurity Threats
Cybercriminals target businesses of all sizes, and a reactive IT model lacks the preventive measures needed to defend against threats.
A 2024 IBM report shows that the average cost of data compromise was $4.88 million. Without regular security updates, monitoring, and proactive defenses, companies relying on break fix solutions are vulnerable to attacks and, ultimately, financial loss.
Unpredictable IT Costs
Break fix services charge per incident, making it difficult to budget for IT expenses. Emergency repairs can be expensive, and frequent disruptions add to overall costs.
In contrast, businesses that invest in long-term IT management benefit from predictable pricing and fewer emergency expenses.
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Managed Services: A Proactive IT Approach
Managed services provide ongoing IT support, ensuring systems remain secure, up-to-date, and optimized for performance. Instead of waiting for things to break, managed service providers (MSPs) proactively maintain your IT environment.
How Does Managed Services Work?
MSPs operate on a subscription-based model, offering continuous monitoring, maintenance, and support. This approach minimizes disruptions and prevents IT issues before they impact business operations.
Here’s what managed services typically include:
- 24/7 System Monitoring: MSPs monitor IT infrastructure in real time, identifying potential issues before they cause downtime.
- Cybersecurity Protection: Regular security updates, threat detection, and compliance management help safeguard business data.
- Help Desk Support: Employees receive instant support for IT issues, improving productivity.
- Data Backup and Disaster Recovery: Regular backups ensure quick recovery from unexpected failures or cyber incidents.
This proactive approach ensures business continuity and predictable IT costs while reducing downtime.
Comparing Break Fix vs Managed Services: Which One Suits Your Business?
While break fix services may appeal to businesses with minimal IT needs, they pose risks in the long run. Managed services offer greater reliability, security, and cost-effectiveness.
Here’s how both models compare:
| Feature | Break Fix Services | Managed Services |
| IT Support Approach | Reactive – fixes issues after they occur | Proactive – prevents issues before they escalate |
| Cost Structure | Pay per incident, leading to unpredictable costs | Fixed monthly fee, providing cost predictability |
| Downtime Risk | High – issues remain undetected until failure occurs | Low – continuous monitoring minimizes disruptions |
| Security Measures | Limited – only applied when requested | Comprehensive – ongoing security updates and threat monitoring |
| Strategic IT Planning | None – only addresses immediate problems | Yes – includes long-term IT planning and improvements |
Businesses that rely on technology for daily operations benefit most from a managed services model, ensuring stability, security, and long-term efficiency.
When Should You Move from Break Fix to Managed Services?
Transitioning from break fix services to a managed IT model is a smart move for businesses experiencing frequent IT disruptions.
Here are signs that your company should consider managed services:
- Increasing IT Downtime: If your business frequently faces IT failures, slow networks, or server crashes, a reactive approach is costing you time and money. Managed services help prevent these issues, keeping your systems running smoothly.
- Growing Cybersecurity Concerns: With cyber threats rising, businesses need strong security measures. MSPs provide endpoint protection, vulnerability assessments, and compliance management to safeguard sensitive data.
- Expanding IT Needs: As your business grows, IT requirements become more complex. Managed services ensure your infrastructure scales efficiently, supporting new users, devices, and software applications.
- Unpredictable IT Costs: If IT expenses fluctuate significantly, a managed services model offers cost stability. With a fixed monthly fee, businesses can plan their budgets without unexpected repair costs.
Key Considerations Before Choosing an IT Model
When deciding between break fix vs managed services, consider the following:
- Business Size and IT Complexity: Larger businesses with more complex IT needs benefit most from managed services.
- Regulatory and Compliance Requirements: Industries with strict compliance rules require proactive security measures.
- Long-Term IT Strategy: Businesses focused on growth and efficiency should prioritize managed IT support.
Partner with AdRem for Reliable Managed IT Services
Choosing between break fix and managed services depends on your business needs, but the long-term advantages of managed IT support far outweigh the risks of a reactive approach. Managed services provide continuous system monitoring, enhanced security, and cost predictability, helping businesses operate efficiently without unexpected disruptions.
AdRem Systems Corporation is a trusted provider of managed services, delivering tailored IT solutions that align with your business goals. With over 100 years of combined experience and an 85% first-call resolution rate, we ensure businesses get fast and reliable IT support.
Contact us today to discuss how our managed services can keep your business running smoothly.
