If your business has 5 to 25 computers, you’re in an awkward spot for IT. You’re too big to get by with “my nephew handles it” but too small to justify a full-time IT hire. The good news: this is exactly where managed IT shines.
Here’s what you actually need at this size – no more, no less.
The Essentials (Every Business This Size Needs These)
1. Someone to Call
When something breaks – and it will – you need a phone number that gets answered by someone who knows your setup. Not a ticket portal. Not a 48-hour wait. A real person, in under an hour.
2. Backups
Every machine backed up to an offsite location automatically. If a computer dies, gets stolen, or gets encrypted by ransomware, your data survives. This is non-negotiable.
3. Security
Endpoint protection on every device. It doesn’t have to be fancy – it has to be there, updated, and managed. This stops 95% of common threats.
4. Updates
Operating systems and software patched automatically. Unpatched systems are how attackers get in. This should happen without anyone thinking about it.
5. Monitoring
Someone (or something) watching your systems 24×7 for problems. Disk filling up? Backup failed? Suspicious activity? You want to know before it becomes a crisis.
The Nice-to-Haves (That Become Essential as You Grow)
- Multi-factor authentication – Prevents account compromise even if a password is stolen
- Device management – Centrally manage, secure, and wipe devices
- Employee onboarding/offboarding – New hire setup and secure departure handled for you
- VoIP phone system – Professional phone presence without old landline hardware
- WiFi management – Reliable coverage across your whole space
What You Don’t Need (Yet)
- Complex compliance frameworks (unless your industry requires it)
- Enterprise-grade firewall appliances
- Dedicated servers on-premise
- A SIEM or SOC (unless you handle very sensitive data)
What It Should Cost
For 5-25 computers, managed IT should be a flat monthly fee that’s less than a part-time employee. You should know exactly what you’re paying every month with no surprises. If your provider is charging per-incident or hourly, you’re on the wrong model.
Need IT help? Seashore IT provides flat-rate managed IT for businesses with 5-250 computers across the Western US – from auto shops and contractors to law firms and healthcare practices. Call (833) 997-6886 or email info@seashoreit.com.
Seashore IT – Your transparent IT partner, aligned to your goals, embedded in your success.