IT support for small businesses

Small businesses with 3 to 25 staff that have no in-house IT person, such as trades offices, medical practices and professional firms.

Monthly retainer per user or per site, plus hourly charges for projects like new setups or migrations.

• Networking and Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace admin
• Backup and cyber security basics
• Reliable communication and documentation

• Professional indemnity and cyber liability insurance, check what your policy covers
• Privacy obligations when handling client data, and notifiable data breach rules that may apply to your clients
• Being on call: agree clear hours and response times so the work does not take over your week
• Check your state rules before doing any cabling, and use licensed cablers where required

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on the tools, software and insurance you choose. Price up your own equipment, remote management software and cover such as professional indemnity before you begin.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on how many clients you take on and the support plans you offer. Estimates assume at least about 12 hours a week, so results vary with your time and client base.

Check that your professional indemnity and cyber liability insurance covers what you do, and look at privacy and notifiable data breach rules that may apply to your clients. Also check your state's rules before any cabling work, and use licensed cablers where required.