7 Types of IT Services to Outsource

It is the foundation of almost every business operation today—from email and data storage to cybersecurity and customer support. However, managing it in-house is time-consuming, costly, and often inefficient.

That’s why many companies turn to outsourced IT services. Outsourcing offers access to specialized skills, faster problem-solving, and reduced downtime—all without the cost of maintaining a large internal IT team.

This guide outlines the 7 key IT services to outsource and how each can help your business improve performance, protect data, and plan for growth—while staying focused on your core operations.

1. Managed IT Support

Managed IT services offer continuous, proactive monitoring and management of your business’s IT systems. Instead of reacting to issues as they arise, a managed IT provider works behind the scenes to prevent problems before they affect your operations.

What It Includes:

• 24/7 system monitoring
• Regular software updates and patching
• Network health checks
• Helpdesk support for staff
• Preventive maintenance

Why It’s Worth Outsourcing:

Outsourcing this function ensures a team keeps your systems stable, even after business hours. According to a CompTIA report, businesses that use managed services reduce IT downtime by 40% on average.

2. Cybersecurity Services

Cybersecurity threats become more advanced every year. Small businesses are just as much at risk as large corporations. Having a dedicated in-house security expert is expensive, but outsourcing provides the same protection at a lower cost.

What It Includes:

• Threat detection and response
• Firewall and antivirus configuration
• Security audits and compliance checks
• Email protection and phishing defense
• Endpoint protection

Why It’s Critical:

According to IBM's Cost of a Data Breach report, a single data breach can cost a small business over $150,000. Outsourced cybersecurity providers bring the expertise and tools needed to protect your systems around the clock.

3. Cloud Services Management

Cloud platforms have changed how businesses store, access, and collaborate on data. But managing the cloud environment—whether it’s Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or AWS—requires time and expertise.

What It Includes:

• Cloud infrastructure setup and migration
• Storage and backup management
• Access control and permissions
• Application Integration
• Ongoing optimization

Why It’s Better Outsourced:

Cloud consultants help you avoid wasted resources and ensure data is secure and accessible. Companies that outsource cloud services report up to 30% reduction in operational costs, especially when shifting from on-site servers.

4. Data Backup and Disaster Recovery

Imagine losing years of work due to a system crash, ransomware attack, or natural disaster. Backups are essential, but just having them isn’t enough. You also need a tested recovery plan.

What It Includes:

• Automated daily or hourly backups
• Secure off-site or cloud storage
• Recovery testing
• Emergency restore protocols
• Business continuity planning

Why It Matters:

A Verizon study found that 94% of businesses with a solid backup and recovery plan recovered from ransomware without paying a ransom. Outsourcing this service ensures your backups are done right—and your recovery is fast.

5. Network Infrastructure Services

Your network is the backbone of your operations. It connects your computers, phones, servers, printers, and security systems. If it’s unstable or outdated, the entire business suffers.

What It Includes:

• Network design and installation
• Cabling and switch setup
• Wireless access point management
• Performance monitoring
• Troubleshooting and repairs

Why It’s Smart to Outsource:

Network issues can be complex and disruptive. Outsourcing to professionals like Cabling Drops ensures your cabling and network setup is clean, secure, and built to handle your team’s workload without downtime.

6. VoIP and Communication Tools

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems offer flexibility, scalability, and cost savings compared to traditional landlines. But they require reliable setup, proper integration, and ongoing maintenance to work well.

What It Includes:

• VoIP system setup and configuration
• Call routing and voicemail
• Video conferencing solutions
• Mobile device integration
• User training and support

Why It’s Worth Delegating:

Outsourcing ensures your team gets a modern, feature-rich communication system without the headaches. According to Deloitte, businesses that upgrade to VoIP see average communication cost savings of 20–30%.

7. IT Consulting and Strategic Planning

Technology isn’t just about tools—it’s about how they support business goals. Many companies struggle to align IT strategy with long-term planning. That’s where IT consultants come in.

What It Includes:

• IT audits and assessments
• Growth planning and budgeting
• Vendor management
• Compliance consulting
• Digital transformation guidance

Why You Need It:

Outsourced consultants offer an outside perspective, industry insights, and a plan that aligns IT with your business roadmap. This service helps companies avoid over-investing in tools they don’t need or under-investing in critical areas.

Signs It’s Time to Outsource IT Services

Not sure if outsourcing is right for your business? Here are some red flags to watch for:

• Your in-house team is overloaded or burned out
• IT issues are causing frequent disruptions
• You’ve experienced a security breach or data loss
• You're expanding to new locations or hiring remote staff
• Your technology feels outdated or poorly integrated
• You’re unsure about compliance with industry standards

If any of these sound familiar, outsourcing your IT needs may be smart.

Benefits of IT Outsourcing

• Access to top-tier talent and tools
• Cost control and predictable pricing
• Faster response to problems
• Reduced system downtime
• Improved security posture
• Focus on core business goals

According to a recent Clutch survey, 80% of small businesses plan to outsource IT by the end of 2025 to cut costs and improve performance.

Conclusion

Outsourcing IT is no longer just a solution for large corporations—it’s a smart, flexible strategy for businesses of all sizes. From cybersecurity to cloud services, external partners can help you stay secure, up-to-date, and efficient without the weight of managing it all in-house.

So the question is: which part of your IT setup is holding you back, and what could your business achieve if it were removed from your plate?

Cabling Drops is a trusted name in Pennsylvania and New Jersey for professional network cabling and infrastructure services. Contact Cabling Drops today to request a consultation or schedule a site visit.