Co-Managed IT vs Managed IT: What’s the Difference? - INC Systems

Every business relies on technology—but how you manage your IT makes a big difference in how efficiently and securely your business operates. At INC Systems, we often get asked: What’s the difference between Managed IT and Co-Managed IT? Let’s break it down so you can decide which model fits your business best.

What Is Managed IT?

Managed IT is a fully outsourced model where a third-party provider, like INC Systems, handles all of your IT needs. This includes:

Network management
Cybersecurity and threat protection
Help desk support
Software and hardware updates
Strategic IT planning and budgeting

Best for: Businesses without an internal IT department or those looking to offload all IT responsibilities.

What Is Co-Managed IT?

Co-Managed IT is a partnership model. You maintain an internal IT team, and INC Systems provides additional support, tools, and expertise to fill in the gaps. This model is flexible and tailored to your existing structure.

We can help with:

Handling overflow support when your team is stretched
Taking the lead on specialized projects or upgrades
Providing advanced tools and monitoring your team may not have
Offering strategic consulting or backup coverage

Best for: Businesses with an internal IT presence looking to scale, streamline, or strengthen their IT capabilities.

Key Differences Between the Two

Team Structure

Managed IT: We are your entire IT department.
Co-Managed IT: We work alongside your team to support your goals.

Control and Flexibility

Managed IT: Full control is handled by INC Systems.
Co-Managed IT: You retain control of core areas while we support as needed.

Customization

Managed IT: A comprehensive, bundled service.
Co-Managed IT: Tailored support based on what your internal team can handle.

Cost and Investment

Managed IT: Flat monthly rate for complete IT support.
Co-Managed IT: Flexible pricing that scales based on services used.

Which One Is Right for Your Business?

Ask yourself:

Do you have an internal IT team or individual?
Are your current resources stretched too thin?
Do you need help with compliance, security, or modernization?
Are you planning to scale or upgrade your systems in the near future?

If you answered “yes” to any of the above, co-managed IT may be your best option. If you’re looking to completely outsource IT and focus solely on running your business, managed IT is likely the right fit.

How INC Systems Supports Both Models

At INC Systems, we bring years of experience supporting companies across industries with both fully managed and co-managed IT services. Our goal is simple: make your technology work for you—not the other way around.

We offer:

Proactive 24/7 monitoring and support
Expert project guidance and implementation
Advanced cybersecurity tools and training
Scalable infrastructure and cloud solutions
A responsive team that understands your business needs

Let’s Build a Smarter IT Strategy

Whether you need full IT support or a strategic partner to back up your in-house team, INC Systems has the resources and expertise to help. Reach out today to learn more about how our Managed and Co-Managed IT services can keep your business secure, supported, and ahead of the curve.

In business since 2004, INC SYSTEMS based out of Flint, Michigan is an MSP that understands how to leverage technology, implement solutions to meet the needs of our clients, and exceed their expectations. We do this by taking the time to understand the needs of a particular business or project and recommending specific solutions to reach the goals set forth.