Fully Outsourced IT

Complete IT management services including virtual CIO, infrastructure management, asset lifecycle, device management, and remote monitoring.

Automated OS and Third-Party Patching

Complete IT infrastructure management

Device Management

End-to-end asset lifecycle procurement

Hardware lifecycle and asset management

Managed firewalls

Mobile device management (MDM)

Remote Management and Monitoring

Tier 1-3 technical helpdesk support

Virtual CIO (vCIO) strategic planning

Market Leaders

Corporate IT Solutions, Inc. (CIS)

TCS Professional Services LLC

Windstream Enterprise

Veea Inc.

Source Inc

Strata Pointe Technologies

Claro Enterprise Solutions

ITS

Intelligent Technical Solutions

Securus Communications

Summit

TPx

Telefónica Global Solutions

Trinity Managed Services

Corporate IT Solutions, Inc. (CIS)

TCS Professional Services LLC

Windstream Enterprise

Veea Inc.

Source Inc

Strata Pointe Technologies

Claro Enterprise Solutions

ITS

Intelligent Technical Solutions

Securus Communications

Summit

TPx

Telefónica Global Solutions

Trinity Managed Services

Fully Outsourced IT Buying Guide

What is Fully Outsourced IT?

Fully Outsourced IT refers to the practice of engaging a third-party provider to manage and deliver all or a significant portion of an organization's information technology functions. Instead of maintaining an in-house IT department, businesses rely on the outsourced provider for services ranging from infrastructure management and helpdesk support to cybersecurity and strategic IT planning. This model essentially transforms the IT department into an external service, allowing the client organization to focus on its core business operations. It's distinct from co-managed IT (where internal and external teams share responsibilities) or project-based outsourcing (which focuses on specific, limited engagements).

Key Considerations When Evaluating Solutions

When evaluating Fully Outsourced IT providers, buyers should meticulously assess several critical factors to ensure alignment with their business needs and long-term goals.

Scope of Services Offered

Comprehensive Coverage: Does the provider offer a full spectrum of services, including network management, server maintenance, data backup and recovery, cybersecurity, desktop support, software licensing, and strategic IT consulting?
Scalability: Can the services easily scale up or down to accommodate business growth, seasonal fluctuations, or changes in demand?
Specialized Expertise: Does the provider have expertise in your industry or with specific technologies critical to your business (e.g., ERP systems, industry-specific software)?

Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

Clear Performance Metrics: Are the SLAs clearly defined, measurable, and tied to key performance indicators (KPIs) such as uptime, response times, resolution times, and security incident handling?
Penalties for Non-Compliance: What are the contractual consequences if the provider fails to meet agreed-upon SLA targets?
Reporting and Transparency: How will performance be monitored and reported? What is the frequency and format of these reports?

Security and Compliance

Robust Cybersecurity Framework: What security protocols, tools, and practices are in place (e.g., firewalls, intrusion detection, endpoint protection, vulnerability management, incident response)?
Compliance Adherence: Does the provider comply with industry-specific regulations (e.g., HIPAA, GDPR, PCI DSS) and general data protection laws relevant to your business?
Certifications: Does the provider hold relevant security certifications (e.g., ISO 27001, SOC 2 Type II)?
Data Residency: Where will your data be stored and processed? Are there any geographical restrictions or requirements?

Provider Experience and Reputation

Track Record: How long has the provider been in business? What is their experience with organizations of your size and industry?
Client References: Can the provider furnish genuine, verifiable references from existing clients?
Team Expertise: What are the qualifications, certifications, and experience levels of the technical staff who will be managing your IT?

Cost Structure and Pricing Model

Transparent Pricing: Is the pricing model clear, predictable, and free of hidden fees?
OpEx vs. CapEx: Understand how outsourcing impacts your operational vs. capital expenditures for IT.
Value for Money: Evaluate the total cost of ownership against the value and benefits received, not just the lowest price. Common models include per-user, per-device, or tiered service packages.

Communication and Relationship Management

Dedicated Account Manager: Will you have a dedicated point of contact for strategic planning and issue escalation?
Communication Channels: What are the standard communication methods and frequencies for routine updates and emergencies?
Cultural Fit: Does the provider's organizational culture and approach to customer service align with your business values?

Transition and Exit Strategy

Onboarding Process: Is there a clear, structured plan for transitioning your IT operations to the outsourced provider?
Knowledge Transfer: How will critical knowledge about your systems and processes be effectively transferred?
Exit Plan: In the event of contract termination, what is the process for smoothly transitioning IT operations back in-house or to another provider? This should be clearly stipulated in the contract.

Common Use Cases

Fully Outsourced IT solutions are employed across various scenarios and business types to address specific challenges and strategic objectives.

Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) without Internal IT Staff: Many SMBs lack the budget or need for a full-time, in-house IT department. Outsourcing provides access to enterprise-grade IT expertise without the overhead.
Organizations Seeking to Reduce IT Costs: Outsourcing can often be more cost-effective than maintaining an internal team, especially when considering salaries, benefits, training, and equipment.
Businesses Needing Specialized Expertise: Companies requiring advanced skills in cybersecurity, cloud architecture, or specific regulatory compliance often turn to outsourcing to access these niche capabilities.
Companies Wanting to Focus on Core Competencies: By offloading IT management, businesses can reallocate internal resources and management attention to their primary business activities.
Rapid Growth Companies: As an organization scales rapidly, outsourcing can provide the immediate IT infrastructure and support needed without delaying business expansion due to recruitment timeframes.
Organizations with Multiple Locations or Remote Workforces: Managing distributed IT environments can be complex. Outsourced providers are often better equipped to offer consistent support across various locations and for remote employees.
Businesses Facing IT Staffing Challenges: In regions with IT talent shortages, outsourcing offers a reliable way to access a qualified workforce.
Companies Prioritizing Enhanced Cybersecurity: Many businesses, regardless of size, struggle to keep pace with evolving cyber threats. Outsourced security specialists often provide a higher level of protection and more proactive threat management.

Technical Requirements

While the onus of technical implementation often lies with the outsourced provider, buyers should be aware of certain prerequisites and considerations from their end to facilitate a smooth transition and effective partnership.

Existing Network Infrastructure Documentation: Up-to-date network diagrams, IP addressing schemes, server lists, and hardware inventory are crucial for the provider to understand your environment.
Software Licensing and Asset Management: A clear inventory of all software licenses, their expiration dates, and usage terms will be needed for proper management.
Access Credentials and Permissions: Securely providing access to existing systems, applications, and network devices will be necessary for the provider to take over management. This needs to be managed carefully with strong access controls.
Internet Connectivity: Reliable and adequately provisioned internet connectivity is fundamental, as many outsourced IT services rely on remote access and cloud-based tools.
Endpoint Inventory: A comprehensive list of all endpoints (desktops, laptops, mobile devices) requiring management and support.
Current Security Posture Assessment: Understanding your existing security measures and any known vulnerabilities will help the provider integrate their security protocols effectively.
Data Backup and Recovery Information: Details about current backup strategies, locations, and data recovery procedures are vital for business continuity planning.
Integration with Existing Line-of-Business Applications: The provider will need to understand how your mission-critical applications function and interact to ensure seamless support and minimize disruption.
Legacy Systems: If you have older, proprietary, or highly customized legacy systems, the provider needs to assess their compatibility and the resources required for their support.
Physical Access (if applicable): For on-premise hardware requiring physical interaction, secure access for the provider's technicians will be necessary.

Implementation Considerations

The implementation process for Fully Outsourced IT is a critical phase that requires careful planning and coordination.

Phased Transition Plan: A phased approach, rather than a "rip and replace" method, is often recommended to minimize disruption and allow for adjustments. This might involve transitioning different IT functions (e.g., helpdesk, then network management, then security) over time.
Detailed Discovery and Assessment: The provider should conduct a thorough discovery process to understand your current IT environment, business processes, and pain points before any transition begins. This should lead to a detailed IT environment assessment report.
Dedicated Transition Team: Establish a clear transition team from both your organization and the provider to manage the process, communicate effectively, and address issues promptly.
Knowledge Transfer Protocol: Implement a structured process for knowledge transfer from your internal staff (if any) to the outsourced team. This includes documentation, shadowing, and regular handover meetings.
Communication Plan: Develop a comprehensive communication plan to inform employees about the changes, the new IT support channels, and expectations during the transition.
Testing and Validation: Thoroughly test all transferred IT functions and systems post-transition to ensure all services are operating as expected before fully entrusting them to the provider.
Initial Service Review: Schedule frequent review meetings early in the engagement to address any teething problems, fine-tune processes, and ensure SLAs are being met.
Security Audit Post-Transition: Consider an independent security audit after the provider has taken over to verify that new security measures are effectively implemented and your environment is secure.
Change Management: Recognize that this is a significant organizational change. Prepare internal stakeholders and users for the shift in IT support and management.
Contract Review and Sign-off: Ensure all aspects of the service, SLAs, responsibilities, and costs are clearly documented and agreed upon in the final contract before implementation begins.

Questions to Ask Vendors

Engage vendors with a detailed set of questions to thoroughly evaluate their offerings and ensure they are the right fit for your organization.

Service & Support

What is your standard SLA for response and resolution times for different criticality levels (e.g., critical outage, service degradation, general inquiry)?
How do you provide 24/7/365 support? Is it in-house, offshore, or a hybrid model?
What are your support channels (phone, email, chat, ticketing system)?
How do you manage and prioritize support tickets?
Do you offer a dedicated account manager? What are their responsibilities?
How do you handle after-hours emergencies?

Security & Compliance

What are your internal security protocols and certifications (e.g., ISO 27001, SOC 2)?
How do you ensure data privacy and compliance with regulations relevant to our industry (e.g., HIPAA, GDPR, PCI DSS)?
What is your backup and disaster recovery plan for client data and systems? How frequently are backups performed and tested?
What cybersecurity tools and services do you include (e.g., endpoint protection, network monitoring, vulnerability scanning, security awareness training)?
What is your incident response plan in the event of a security breach?
Where is our data physically stored and processed?

Technical Capabilities & Infrastructure

What technologies and platforms do you specialize in (e.g., Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud, specific ERPs)?
How do you keep your technicians' skills up-to-date with new technologies?
What is your process for proactive maintenance and monitoring of our IT infrastructure?
How do you handle software updates, patching, and licensing management?
Can you provide examples of how you've helped clients with IT strategic planning and technology roadmapping?

Contract & Pricing

Please provide a detailed breakdown of your pricing model. What is included and what is considered an extra cost?
Are there any hidden fees or additional charges we should be aware of?
What is the contract term, and what are the renewal and termination clauses?
What is your onboarding process and what fees are associated with it?
What are the penalties if you fail to meet the agreed-upon SLAs?

References & Experience

Can you provide three client references from organizations similar in size and industry to ours?
How long have you been providing fully outsourced IT services?
What is your typical client retention rate?
How do you ensure a smooth transition from our current IT setup to your services?
What is your process for evaluating and implementing new technologies that might benefit our business?

Market Leaders

View All Vendors

IMS Solutions Group

IMS Solutions Group provides managed IT services and cybersecurity for mid-market businesses, delivering proactive support and strategic technology roadmaps.

C-Spire

C Spire provides integrated wireless, fiber internet, and managed IT solutions for businesses and consumers, delivering high-touch, regionalized technology.

Meter

Meter provides end-to-end Network-as-a-Service solutions for businesses, combining custom hardware, software, and operations to deliver seamless connectivity.

Quest

Quest offers a comprehensive suite of technology solutions and services, including cybersecurity, cloud and managed services, disaster recovery, professional services, and infrastructure solutions, to help organizations optimize their IT environments.

ThincForward

ThincForward delivers strategic managed IT, cloud migration, and cybersecurity services designed to optimize infrastructure and fuel mid-market business growth.

Corporate IT Solutions, Inc. (CIS)

Corporate IT Solutions provides single-source enterprise IT network services, field dispatch, and managed infrastructure to empower internal IT teams.

Telstra

Telstra provides global telecommunications and technology services to enterprises and governments, leveraging Australia's largest mobile network and subsea cables.

Starken Technologies

Starken Technologies provides comprehensive managed IT services and advanced networking solutions for mid-market enterprises seeking secure, scalable infrastructure.

Red River

Red River provides integrated technology solutions and managed services for government and enterprise clients, specializing in digital transformation and security.

Vertikal 6

Vertikal6 is a full-service technology partner providing managed IT, cybersecurity, AI automation, custom software, and digital marketing to growing businesses.

vCom Solutions

vCom Solutions provides a comprehensive IT lifecycle management platform and managed services that help mid-market enterprises automate IT spend and operations.

TeraNova

TeraNova provides managed mobility services and expense management for global enterprises, delivering carrier-neutral optimization and end-to-end device lifecycle support.

CyberlinkASP

CyberlinkASP provides 24/7 managed IT, Desktop-as-a-Service, and cloud hosting for mid-market businesses requiring compliant, high-availability IT environments.

Verve

Verve provides integrated cloud communications and managed IT solutions for mid-market enterprises, combining carrier-grade voice with white-glove support.

TCS Professional Services LLC

TCS Professional Services provides strategic IT consultancy and managed services for UK enterprises, specializing in digital transformation and infrastructure.

Imagit

Imagit provides global white-label IT professional services and engineering talent for MSPs and VARs, specializing in high-stakes infrastructure deployments.

Stellar Technologies

Stellar Technologies provides sovereign cloud, managed IT, and cybersecurity solutions for Australian mid-market firms seeking high-touch, secure infrastructure.

Synoptek

Synoptek is a global systems integrator and managed service provider offering end-to-end technology transformation and IT management for mid-market enterprises.

Tangoe

Tangoe provides AI-powered IT expense and asset management solutions, optimizing telecom, mobile, and cloud services for global enterprises.

Solarwinds

SolarWinds provides comprehensive IT management and observability software for hybrid environments, enabling IT pros to optimize performance across complex stacks.

Unisys

Unisys provides high-performance computing, cybersecurity, and digital workplace solutions to help global enterprises and governments modernize complex operations.

Uniti Solutions

Uniti Solutions provides specialized healthcare IT services and software, delivering clinical workflow automation and data integration for health systems.

Windstream Enterprise

Windstream Enterprise provides cloud-optimized network and security solutions, including SD-WAN and UCaaS, powered by a proprietary digital management portal.

Veea Inc.

Veea Inc. delivers an AI-driven, hyperconverged edge platform uniting multiprotocol connectivity, edge computing, and zero-trust security for distributed sites.

Source Inc

Source Inc provides mission-critical wireless connectivity solutions for enterprise and public safety, specializing in hardware, software, and managed services.

Strata Pointe Technologies

Strata Pointe Technologies provides strategic IT management and cybersecurity for mid-market firms, specializing in aligning technology with business growth.

vMOX

vMOX provides a global managed mobility services (MMS) platform that automates enterprise mobile lifecycle management and optimizes wireless expenses.

3stepIT

3stepIT provides sustainable technology lifecycle management solutions, helping enterprises finance, manage, and securely refresh IT assets circularity.

SoftwareOne / Crayon

SoftwareOne and Crayon provide end-to-end software and cloud solutions, helping enterprises optimize spend and manage digital transformation through expert services.

Wireless Watchdogs

Wireless Watchdogs provides mobile device management and cost optimization solutions for businesses, focusing on telecom expense management.

Procure IT

Procure IT delivers a Managed Intelligence Platform and advisory services that optimize SaaS, cloud, and IT spend to help enterprises reduce technology costs and risk.

Sakon

Sakon provides a global enterprise platform for Telecom Expense Management and Managed Mobility Services, helping large organizations simplify complex connectivity.

Spectrum VoIP

Spectrum VoIP provides enterprise-grade cloud communications and UCaaS solutions for mid-market businesses, featuring bundled hardware and unlimited support.

DHD LP

DHD LP supplies enterprise and data center IT hardware, helping organizations optimize infrastructure lifecycles through reliable, cost-effective equipment sourcing.

Mobile Mentor

Mobile Mentor provides managed endpoint services for healthcare, government, and enterprise, specializing in securing the modern desktop and mobile workforce.

APIO

APIO provides high-performance API infrastructure and orchestration tools for enterprise developers, streamlining complex integrations with a security-first approach.

Kaseya

Kaseya provides unified IT management and security software for MSPs and internal IT teams, delivering an integrated platform to streamline complex operations.

Powernet

Powernet provides comprehensive managed IT, voice, data, and security solutions for multi-site enterprises, offering a single point of accountability for complex tech.

Procurri

Procurri provides global IT lifecycle services and data center hardware solutions, helping enterprises maximize ROI and sustainability through a circular economy.

Xceltek

Xceltek provides AI-driven operational intelligence and workflow automation for mid-to-large enterprises, specializing in bridging the gap between legacy systems and modern cloud environments.

MobilSense

MobilSense provides enterprise-grade mobile expense management and lifecycle automation solutions to help organizations optimize wireless costs and visibility.

Peacey Systems

Peacey Systems provides comprehensive managed IT services and cybersecurity solutions for SMEs, focusing on proactive infrastructure management and strategic growth.

ThreatLocker

ThreatLocker provides a Zero Trust endpoint security platform that uses application whitelisting and ringfencing to give IT professionals total control over their data.

One Source

One Source provides fully managed Communications Lifecycle Management and IT services for enterprises, unifying disparate tech stacks into a single, optimized stream.

Synology

Synology provides advanced NAS solutions and data management software for businesses and individuals, offering enterprise-grade storage without recurring licenses.

Vodafone

Vodafone US, Inc. offers a comprehensive suite of communication and technology solutions, including connectivity, unified communications, cloud, security, and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, designed to empower businesses with a secure and reliable technology foundation.

Ascend Technologies

Ascend Technologies provides comprehensive managed IT, cybersecurity, and cloud services for mid-market organizations seeking strategic technical partnerships.

BlueAlly

BlueAlly provides comprehensive IT solutions and managed services for mid-market and enterprise organizations, specializing in security, cloud, and infrastructure.

Claro Enterprise Solutions

Claro Enterprise Solutions provides global managed ICT services, specializing in cybersecurity, cloud, and connectivity for multinationals across the Americas.

CompassMSP

CompassMSP provides premium managed IT, cybersecurity, and cloud services to SMBs, combining local high-touch support with national-scale technical expertise.

Continuant

Continuant provides global managed services and support for enterprise UC and AV systems, helping large organizations transition to the cloud at their own pace.

Coretelligent

Coretelligent provides comprehensive managed IT, cybersecurity, and cloud services for mid-market firms in highly regulated sectors like finance and life sciences.

DYOPATH

DYOPATH is a leading managed service provider (MSP) delivering end-to-end IT solutions, cloud services, and advanced cybersecurity to mid-market and enterprise organizations.

Datavalet

Datavalet provides managed Wi-Fi and branch networking solutions for large enterprises, specializing in secure guest access and location-based data analytics.

Dizzion

Dizzion provides high-performance Managed Desktop as a Service (DaaS) solutions for global enterprises, specializing in compliant, secure remote work environments.

Effectual

Effectual is a managed cloud services provider helping mid-market and enterprise organizations modernize, secure, and scale mission-critical AWS and VMware workloads.

Effortless

Effortless provides comprehensive cloud-based IT solutions, including DaaS and IaaS, specifically designed to simplify enterprise-grade infrastructure for SMEs.

Eze Technologies Inc

Eze Technologies provides AI-driven managed IT and cybersecurity services for SMEs, delivering enterprise-grade infrastructure with a high-touch, strategic approach.

FNTS

FNTS provides managed IT services, multi-cloud leadership, and mainframe modernization for highly regulated industries seeking secure, personalized infrastructure.

Halo Global

Halo Global provides managed SD-WAN and SASE solutions for global enterprises, specializing in carrier-agnostic network design and co-managed services.

ITS

ITS provides managed IT services, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions for mid-market businesses, delivering high-touch strategic partnership and 24/7 support.

IceBlue

IceBlue provides strategic IT managed services and bespoke software development for UK businesses, delivering high-performance infrastructure and digital growth.

Infinite Wireless

Infinite Wireless provides mission-critical enterprise wireless solutions and managed services for complex environments, ensuring seamless connectivity for industry leaders.

Integris

Integris provides premium managed IT, cybersecurity, and cloud services for small to mid-market businesses, combining national scale with local, high-touch expertise.

Intelligent Technical Solutions

Intelligent Technical Solutions (ITS) is a managed security service provider (MSSP) offering comprehensive IT support, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions for small to mid-market businesses.

Juniper Networks

Juniper Networks provides AI-driven networking solutions and secure cloud services for enterprises and service providers, prioritizing experience over connectivity.

Logically

Logically provides nationwide Managed IT and Cybersecurity services for mid-market organizations, leveraging their OpLogic platform to deliver proactive, secure, and scalable technology solutions.

Lunavi

Lunavi is a leading managed services provider and digital consultant specializing in Microsoft Azure cloud migration, app modernization, and data innovation.

MassiveIT

MassiveIT provides enterprise-grade IT infrastructure management and automation solutions designed for complex, hybrid-cloud environments in regulated industries.

Mosaic

Mosaic Networx provides global SD-WAN, SASE, and cybersecurity solutions for mid-market and enterprise firms through a simplified, carrier-agnostic platform.

NTT Data

NTT Data is a global IT services leader providing digital transformation, consulting, and managed services to enterprises seeking long-term innovation and scale.

NetWolves

NetWolves designs, delivers, and manages intelligent communications products and services, allowing companies to focus on their core business, not their network.

Netrix Global

Netrix Global is a leading managed services provider and systems integrator delivering end-to-end security, cloud, and digital workplace solutions for mid-to-large enterprises.

Nexon

Nexon is a leading Australian managed service provider delivering integrated cloud, network, and security solutions to mid-market and enterprise organizations.

NexusTek

NexusTek is a national managed IT services provider offering end-to-end technology solutions, including cloud, cybersecurity, and help desk support for SMEs.

Oracle

Oracle offers cloud infrastructure, enterprise software, and autonomous database solutions, enabling businesses to optimize their operations and enhance performance.

Prelude Services

Prelude Services provides specialized IT managed services and cybersecurity solutions for senior living and long-term care providers to ensure secure operations.

Securus Communications

Securus Communications provides managed network, security, and cloud solutions for UK enterprises, specializing in SD-WAN and SASE with a high-touch service model.

Summit

Summit provides strategic IT management, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions for mid-market businesses seeking a high-touch, security-first technology partner.

TPx

TPx is a managed services provider that offers a comprehensive suite of solutions, including managed IT, cybersecurity, network aggregation, and unified communications, designed to empower businesses with a secure and reliable technology foundation.

Telefónica Global Solutions

Telefónica Global Solutions provides integrated global connectivity, cloud, and security services for multinational enterprises and wholesale carriers worldwide.

Trinity Managed Services

Trinity Managed Services provides strategic IT support, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions for UK SMEs, focusing on proactive management and business alignment.

Ubiquiti

Ubiquiti provides innovative networking technology solutions for service providers and enterprises, focusing on scalability and performance.

UnitedLayer

UnitedLayer provides secure, compliant private cloud and hybrid IT solutions for enterprises, specializing in high-performance managed hosting and colocation.

Comcast Business

Comcast Business provides scalable high-speed internet, networking, and cybersecurity solutions for organizations of all sizes via its expansive fiber-rich network.

Verizon

Verizon provides comprehensive security, networking, and communications solutions to enterprises, leveraging one of the world’s largest IP networks.

Broadcom

Broadcom provides a wide range of semiconductor and software solutions for various industries, focusing on networking and security.

Lumen

Lumen provides global IT and communication solutions, helping enterprises optimize their networks, cloud, and security infrastructure with adaptive technologies.

Ntiva

Ntiva provides managed IT services and consulting solutions for small to midsize businesses, focusing on technology and support.

Rackspace

Rackspace offers managed cloud services and solutions for businesses, focusing on multi-cloud environments and customer support.

Windstream

Windstream Enterprise is a managed network communications provider offering solutions for multi-location businesses across various industries.

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