Top Chicago Managed Services Providers

Ascend Technologies

Ascend Technologies is a mid-market and enterprise-focused technology services provider that offers a comprehensive range of managed services among other technology solutions. Through strategic acquisitions, Ascend Technologies has significantly expanded its capabilities, making it an ideal partner for mid-market and enterprise firms seeking reliable managed services or expert consultants for complex projects. However, due to its size and focus on larger clients, Ascend Technologies tends to be more expensive and may not be the best fit for small and mid-sized businesses. The company often charges monthly minimums that are above market pricing for managed services tailored to smaller SMBs.

Ntiva

Ntiva is a private equity-backed managed services provider that has grown significantly by acquiring smaller independent MSPs, allowing it to expand into many new markets. Ntiva serves a diverse range of clients, including SMBs, mid-market, and enterprise customers. In terms of pricing, Ntiva is generally considered fair and in line with typical market rates for managed services providers. However, client feedback on Ntiva is mixed. While some clients praise the company for its support experience, others, particularly those who were clients of MSPs acquired by Ntiva, report high staff turnover rates at Ntiva and lackluster or inconsistent support experiences, along with insufficient proactive strategic consulting.

Framework IT

Framework IT is a privately owned managed services provider based in Chicago, operated and owned by its executive leadership team. The company has built a strong reputation for its comprehensive managed services plans and excellent support staff, proactive strategic consulting, and comprehensive cybersecurity services included within its managed services. While Framework IT delivers high-quality service, it is not considered a low-cost service provider and is exclusively focused on serving the small and mid-sized business space. Framework does offer a unique pricing model that rewards clients that align to its best practices with reduced monthly pricing. This makes Framework IT an ideal choice for SMBs that prioritize quality IT support, strategic guidance, and robust cybersecurity measures as opposed to getting the lowest cost possible for IT services. Framework IT also offers VoIP and Cloud Unified Communications, providing SMBs with the option to consolidate technology vendors and simplify support.

Impact Networking

Impact Networking is a mid-market and enterprise-focused technology services provider that offers a wide range of managed services, along with various other technology and cybersecurity solutions. The company has launched its own security operations center, which enhances its ability to effectively serve mid-market and enterprise clients. Impact Networking is an excellent partner for firms seeking managed services or expert consultants for complex projects due to its size and focus on larger clients. However, this focus also means that Impact Networking is generally more expensive and may not be the best fit for small and mid-sized businesses, as it often charges monthly minimums that are above market pricing for smaller SMBs. While the company is known for providing timely and proficient support, it has a reputation for enforcing long-term, strict contracts and lacking flexibility to adapt to its SMB clients’ needs.

XL.net

XL.net is a privately owned managed services provider that offers a comprehensive range of managed services and other technology solutions. Known for its high-quality service and flexible contract terms, XL.net is positioned at the high end of the market in terms of pricing. This makes it most suitable for SMBs that are comfortable paying a premium for great service and contract flexibility. While XL.net includes some solid baseline cybersecurity in its managed services plans, additional recommended cybersecurity solutions come at an extra cost, further increasing the overall expense of the partnership.

Empist

Empist is a privately owned managed services provider that has experienced significant growth recently through acquisitions. The company boasts a wide range of capabilities and offers multiple managed services plans at relatively fair-market or even inexpensive prices. However, recent customer feedback has been very inconsistent, with many clients noting high turnover in help desk staff and a glaring lack of strategic consulting. Empist also has an overseas help desk in Greece. While Empist provides a variety of services at competitive prices, potential clients should be aware of these concerns when considering a partnership.

CompassMSP

CompassMSP is a private equity-backed managed services provider (MSP) that has significantly expanded its presence in the Chicago area through acquisitions. The company caters to both small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) as well as larger organizations. Clients generally report that their service experience with CompassMSP meets expectations. However, it is important for clients to be aware that private equity-backed MSPs often focus on profit maximization initiatives. These initiatives can include significant price increases for clients and internal cost-cutting measures. Additionally, there is a possibility that CompassMSP may eventually be sold to an even larger managed services provider. This transition could potentially impact the quality of service for SMB clients, as the growing size of the organization may reduce its agility and ability to serve smaller clients effectively.

In conclusion, choosing the right managed services provider (MSP) in Chicago requires careful consideration of your specific business needs and priorities. Each MSP discussed in this article offers unique strengths and potential drawbacks, making it essential for clients to evaluate which provider aligns best with their long-term goals and desired partnership experience. By thoroughly assessing the capabilities, pricing models, and client feedback for each MSP, businesses can make an informed decision that ensures they receive the support and services necessary to thrive in Chicago’s dynamic business environment. Ultimately, the right MSP will be the one that not only meets your immediate needs but also supports your growth and success for the foreseeable future.