5 Signs It’s Time to Switch Your IT Provider (And How to Choose the Right One)

Choosing the right IT managed service provider for your business is a tricky topic, your existing provider has access to sensitive systems and knows your business inside and out. If things aren’t going as well as they could (should) it can still feel overwhelming to think about switching. We know just how difficult switching IT providers can be (we even wrote a guide on it).

Even though it’s challenging, there are some clear-cut signs it might be time to make a change. The five topics below are what we consider red flags:

1. Constant Downtime and Slow Response
   • Frequent outages, slow systems, delayed ticket responses.
   • Impact on productivity and customer trust.
2. Recurring Security Issues
   • Unpatched systems, repeated cyber incidents, lack of proactive security.
   • The cost of poor cybersecurity.
3. Lack of Strategic Guidance
   • Your provider only “keeps the lights on” but doesn’t help you plan.
   • No roadmap for scaling, cloud adoption, or improving efficiency.
4. Surprise Costs and Lack of Transparency
   • Hidden fees, unclear service levels, unpredictable billing.
   • Why predictable costs matter.
5. Poor Communication and Customer Service
   • Hard-to-reach support, no regular updates, poor explanation of issues.
   • The value of clear and proactive communication.

If your current IT managed service provider ticked any of these boxes, it might be time to begin the search for a new provider.  Below are four things we would recommend (as an IT managed service provider ourselves) you dive into with any potential new provider.

1. Look for Proven Experience: Certifications, client references, industry expertise.
2. They Prioritize Security and Compliance: Ask about their approach to cybersecurity and regulatory needs.
3. Demand Proactive Support: Look for providers who offer monitoring, patching, and recommendations—not just break-fix.
4. Check for Transparent Pricing: Make sure you understand their pricing models and what’s included.

Ending services with your existing provider might seem scary, but in our experience most IT managed service providers want to do right by their clients (even if that client is on their way out). In our 20 plus years of experience, we have never had the incumbent provider block our ability to service their former client. Again, we have a guide on this very topic that goes into more detail and even provides a template ending your services with your existing provider.

If you’re in the market for new IT services to support your business, Valley Techlogic has been supporting California businesses since 2004 and we can support you in whatever stage of your search you’re in. From procuring new services to providing an assessment on your current technical environment – our technicians are ready to support your business today.  Learn more with a consultation.

Looking for more to read? We suggest these other articles from our site.

This article was powered by Valley Techlogic, leading provider of trouble free IT services for businesses in California including Merced, Fresno, Stockton & More. You can find more information at https://www.valleytechlogic.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/valleytechlogic/ . Follow us on X at https://x.com/valleytechlogic and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/valley-techlogic-inc/.