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The best managed IT services help you keep systems secure, updated, and supported without pulling internal teams into constant troubleshooting. When in-house capacity is limited, recurring incidents go unresolved, patches get delayed, and security risks build up, especially across growing SaaS environments or hybrid setups.

I’ve worked with SaaS companies evaluating managed IT partners to see which ones actually reduce internal load and improve reliability. That includes testing response times, reviewing service-level follow-through, and assessing how well providers adapt to different tech stacks and team workflows.

This guide breaks down the firms that consistently deliver solid support without creating new bottlenecks.

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Best Managed IT Services in Chicago Summary

This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top managed IT service selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.

Best Managed IT Services in Chicago Reviews

Below are my detailed summaries of the best managed IT services providers in Chicago that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a look at each provider’s key services, unique specialties, and pros & cons to help you find the best one for your needs.

Best for AI-driven services

  • Pricing upon request

iSmile Technologies offers managed IT services, cloud solutions, and AI-driven technologies, serving businesses looking to enhance operational efficiency and customer experiences. Their main client base includes organizations seeking innovative solutions through AI and cloud technologies.

Why I picked iSmile Technologies: Their focus on AI-driven services sets them apart, providing solutions like AIOps and CloudOps that harness AI to improve efficiency. They offer tailored AI and cloud solutions that address specific business challenges. This approach helps your team leverage cutting-edge technology to drive digital transformation.

Standout Services: Their DevSecOps service integrates security practices into your development process, addressing security and compliance challenges. The DataOps service streamlines data management and analytics, enhancing your decision-making capabilities.

Target industries: Healthcare, finance, manufacturing, retail, and technology

Specialties: AI-driven solutions, cloud technologies, managed services, DevSecOps, and DataOps

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High client recommendation rate
  • Tailored solutions for diverse needs
  • Expertise in major cloud platforms

Cons:

  • Primarily focused on AI and cloud
  • Specific industry focus

Best for healthcare compliance

  • Pricing upon request

Mindsight offers managed services, including cloud management, cybersecurity, and IT help desk support, primarily serving mid-market organizations. They focus on industries like healthcare, education, manufacturing, and financial services.

Why I picked Mindsight: Mindsight's services target healthcare compliance, offering specialized solutions in cybersecurity and disaster recovery. Their focus on tailored solutions ensures your team meets industry standards and regulatory requirements. With expert engineers and a proactive approach, they provide reliable support in maintaining compliance.

Standout Services: Mindsight's cloud management helps you efficiently manage and optimize your cloud resources, addressing scalability and cost challenges. Their disaster recovery services ensure your business continuity by providing robust data protection and recovery strategies.

Target industries: Healthcare, education, manufacturing, financial services, and mid-market organizations

Specialties: Cloud management, cybersecurity, disaster recovery, IT help desk support, and infrastructure consulting

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High client retention rate
  • Tailored solutions for specific needs
  • Expert-level engineers

Cons:

  • Primarily mid-market focus
  • Limited geographic focus outside Chicago

Best for eco-friendly practices

  • Pricing upon request

BetterWorld Technology offers managed IT services, cybersecurity, and cloud integration, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and security. Their main client base includes businesses across various industries looking for tailored IT solutions and 24/7 support.

Why I picked BetterWorld Technology: Their commitment to eco-friendly practices is evident in their sustainable IT solutions. They offer cloud integration that reduces physical infrastructure needs, helping your team minimize environmental impact. With a focus on advanced cybersecurity and local expertise, they ensure your operations are efficient and secure.

Standout Services: Their IT asset management helps you efficiently track and manage your hardware and software, addressing lifecycle management challenges. The business intelligence services they provide enhance your decision-making capabilities, offering insights that drive growth.

Target industries: Healthcare, finance, legal, manufacturing, and retail

Specialties: Managed IT services, cybersecurity, cloud integration, IT consulting, and business intelligence

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Tailored solutions for diverse industries
  • Strong local expertise
  • Comprehensive service offerings

Cons:

  • Primarily serves select industries
  • Service options may be difficult to navigate

Best for small businesses

  • Pricing upon request

LeadingIT offers managed IT services, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions, focusing on supporting small businesses with their technology needs. Their main client base includes small enterprises looking for reliable IT management and security.

Why I picked LeadingIT: Their focus on small businesses is evident in their tailored IT solutions designed to enhance productivity and security. They provide comprehensive IT support that helps your team manage day-to-day operations without technical hiccups. With a strong emphasis on customer service, they ensure your small business gets the attention and support it needs.

Standout Services: Their cybersecurity solutions protect your business from threats, addressing security vulnerabilities effectively. The cloud services they offer enhance your operational efficiency by providing flexible and scalable IT resources.

Target industries: Healthcare, legal, manufacturing, nonprofit, and retail

Specialties: Managed IT services, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, IT support, and network management

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Focus on small business needs
  • High customer service standards
  • Strong cybersecurity measures

Cons:

  • May lack advanced features
  • Limited geographic coverage

Best for cybersecurity focus

  • Pricing upon request

Sayers offers IT infrastructure, cloud, and cybersecurity services, focusing on securing organizations and optimizing their technology environments. Their main client base includes businesses seeking robust cybersecurity solutions and efficient IT infrastructure management.

Why I picked Sayers: Their cybersecurity focus is notable, with services designed to balance security and productivity. They offer tailored cybersecurity strategies that address specific organizational needs. This helps your team to manage risks effectively and ensure secure operations.

Standout Services: Sayers' business continuity service supports your organization in maintaining operations during disruptions, addressing critical downtime challenges. Their technology refresh service helps you upgrade and manage end-user assets efficiently, tackling obsolescence issues.

Target industries: Finance, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and education

Specialties: Cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, cloud services, business continuity, and technology refresh

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong cybersecurity offerings
  • Tailored IT infrastructure solutions
  • Experienced engineering team

Cons:

  • Focus on specific industries
  • May require long-term contracts

Best for large enterprises

  • Pricing upon request

Netrix offers managed IT services, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and data management, focusing on optimizing IT operations for large enterprises. Their main client base includes businesses seeking strategic IT leadership and comprehensive support.

Why I picked Netrix: Their focus on large enterprises is evident in their tailored IT solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency. They provide a three-phase approach—advising, deploying, and running IT solutions—that ensures seamless integration with your existing resources. This allows your team to focus on strategic initiatives while benefiting from expert consultation and continuous support.

Standout Services: Their cloud infrastructure service optimizes your IT operations, addressing scalability and efficiency challenges. The cybersecurity services they provide help protect your business from threats, ensuring your data remains secure.

Target industries: Finance, healthcare, manufacturing, education, and retail

Specialties: Managed IT services, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, data management, and application development

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong focus on large enterprises
  • Three-phase service approach
  • Expertise in cloud and cybersecurity

Cons:

  • Pricing not transparent
  • Complex service offerings

Best for cloud solutions

  • Pricing upon request

The Isidore Group offers managed IT services, cloud solutions, and cybersecurity, focusing on optimizing business operations and enhancing security. Their main client base consists of small to medium-sized businesses seeking reliable IT management and cloud capabilities.

Why I picked The Isidore Group: Their emphasis on cloud solutions is key, providing businesses with scalable and flexible IT resources. They offer tailored cloud services that align with your team’s needs, ensuring efficient operations. This approach helps your business transition smoothly to cloud-based environments, enhancing productivity and security.

Standout Services: Their cybersecurity services protect your digital assets, addressing vulnerabilities and ensuring data integrity. The IT infrastructure management they provide supports your business in maintaining and optimizing your IT systems, tackling operational challenges effectively.

Target industries: Healthcare, finance, education, manufacturing, and retail

Specialties: Cloud solutions, cybersecurity, IT infrastructure management, managed IT services, and data protection

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong focus on cloud solutions
  • Flexible service options
  • Experienced support team

Cons:

  • Focus on small to medium businesses
  • Geographic limitations

Best for telecom solutions

  • Pricing upon request

Bandwidth Simplified offers managed IT, telecom, voice, internet, cloud, and compliance services tailored for businesses. They serve companies that need expert telecom and IT support with a focus on connectivity.

Why I picked Bandwidth Simplified: They guide your team through vendor-neutral telecom auditing and consultation, tapping into partnerships with over 300 providers to find cost-effective solutions tied to their USP. 

They then handle setup, managed IT, and ongoing support under one roof so you don’t juggle multiple vendors. They also package cloud services and managed firewalls to enhance your telecom strategy, all aligned with their strength in telecom solutions.

Standout Services: Cloud backup & storage helps you protect your data by keeping copies off-site and available for recovery, so your team can bounce back without losing critical info. And their network compliance and managed firewall service backs you up by regularly assessing vulnerabilities and keeping traffic guarded so you meet industry standards and reduce risk.

Target industries: Legal, financial services, healthcare, restaurants, commercial real estate

Specialties: Voice services, internet & connectivity solutions, managed IT solutions, network compliance, cloud services

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Personalized telecom and IT oversight
  • Vendor-neutral comparison across providers
  • 24/7 monitoring after installation

Cons:

  • No published flat-rate pricing
  • Limited geographic presence beyond Chicago

Best for IT strategy planning

  • Free discovery call available
  • Pricing upon request

Framework IT offers managed IT services, cloud solutions, and IT strategy planning, focusing on aligning technology with business goals. Their main client base includes small to medium-sized businesses seeking strategic technology management.

Why I picked Framework IT: Their emphasis on IT strategy planning helps align your technology initiatives with business objectives. They offer strategic planning services that ensure your IT infrastructure supports your growth and operational goals. This approach enables your team to make informed technology decisions that drive business success.

Standout Services: Their cloud solutions provide scalable and flexible resources, addressing your operational efficiency needs. The IT support services they offer ensure your systems run smoothly, tackling day-to-day technical challenges effectively.

Target industries: Healthcare, finance, legal, manufacturing, and education

Specialties: IT strategy planning, managed IT services, cloud solutions, IT support, and network management

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong focus on strategy planning
  • Flexible service packages
  • Experienced support team

Cons:

  • Pricing not transparent
  • Limited to small and medium businesses

Best for nationwide coverage

  • Free consultation available
  • Pricing upon request

All Covered (Konica Minolta) offers managed IT services, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and unified communications, serving industries like healthcare, education, and the legal sector. Their main client base includes small-to-medium businesses and organizations in need of comprehensive IT management.

Why I picked All Covered (Konica Minolta): Their nationwide coverage is a key differentiator, providing consistent service across multiple locations. They offer managed IT services that enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. With a strong focus on cybersecurity, they ensure your team’s data remains protected across the board.

Standout Services: Their unified communications service helps your team stay connected across different platforms, improving collaboration and productivity. The device management service ensures all your equipment is up-to-date and secure, addressing maintenance and security challenges.

Target industries: Education, healthcare, legal, finance, and government

Specialties: Managed IT services, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, unified communications, and device management

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Nationwide service availability
  • Strong cybersecurity measures
  • High customer satisfaction

Cons:

  • Pricing details are not readily available
  • Complex service offerings

Other Managed IT Services in Chicago

Here are some additional managed IT services providers in Chicago that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:

  1. XL.net

    For remote work support

  2. 101 Digital

    For agile IT services

  3. AlignLayerNine

    For network infrastructure design

  4. Shartega IT

    For proactive cybersecurity measures

  5. TeamLogic IT

    For managed print services

  6. GO Technology Group

    For remote workforce support

  7. Outsource Solutions Group

    For IT support services

  8. PSM Partners

    For cloud migration services

  9. Sentinel Technologies

    For data center solutions

  10. ProdigyTeks

    For small business focus

What Are Managed IT Services in Chicago?

Managed IT services in Chicago are professional services that help businesses manage their IT needs, offering expertise in various technology areas. They might offer things like:

  • Network monitoring and management
  • Data backup and recovery
  • Cybersecurity solutions
  • Cloud services and support
  • IT consulting and strategy

Typically, small to medium-sized businesses, IT departments, and professionals seek out managed IT services in Chicago to enhance their technology infrastructure and address challenges like security, scalability, and operational efficiency.

Managed IT Services in Chicago Selection Criteria

When selecting the best managed IT services providers in Chicago to include in this list, I considered common business needs and pain points that these providers address. This included things like improving cybersecurity measures and enhancing operational efficiency. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair: 

Core Services (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each provider had to offer these basic services:

  • Network management
  • Cybersecurity solutions
  • Data backup and recovery
  • Cloud support
  • IT consulting

Additional Standout Services (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique or especially valuable services, such as:

  • AI-driven analytics
  • Custom software development
  • Industry-specific compliance support
  • Internet of Things (IoT) integration
  • Virtual desktop infrastructure

Industry Experience (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the industry experience of each provider, I considered the following:

  • Years in operation
  • Number of clients served
  • Industry certifications
  • Case studies or success stories
  • Partnerships with technology vendors

Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each provider, I considered the following:

  • Time to implement services
  • Clarity of the onboarding process
  • Availability of training resources
  • Dedicated onboarding support
  • Customization options during setup

Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess the level of customer support each provider offers, I considered the following:

  • Availability of 24/7 support
  • Multiple support channels
  • Response time to inquiries
  • Technical expertise of support staff
  • Customer feedback on the support experience

Value For Price (10% of total score)
To evaluate the pricing and potential ROI of working with each provider, I considered the following:

  • Transparency of the pricing model
  • Comparison to industry averages
  • Inclusion of additional services
  • Flexibility of pricing plans
  • Client feedback on value received

Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the overall satisfaction of existing customers, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:

  • Consistency of positive feedback
  • Commonly mentioned strengths
  • Reported issues or complaints
  • Frequency of updates or improvements
  • Overall customer satisfaction ratings

How to Choose a Managed IT Services Provider

It’s easy to get bogged down in long lists of services and complex pricing structures. To help you prioritize the things that matter most for your business, keep the following factors in mind:

FactorWhat to Consider
Business ObjectivesEnsure the provider aligns with your goals. Look for services that directly support your strategic initiatives, like scaling operations or enhancing security.
Service Scope and SLAsReview the service scope and SLAs carefully. Make sure they include all necessary services and have clear metrics for performance and accountability.
Support AvailabilityCheck for 24/7 support and multiple contact methods. Your team will need quick responses to issues, so evaluate their support system before committing.
Costs and Pricing StructureUnderstand the pricing model and what's included. Compare it to your budget and needs, and watch for hidden fees or inflexible contracts.
Communication and ReportingLook for transparent communication and regular reporting. You'll want detailed insights into your IT environment and regular updates on service performance.
Industry ExperienceConsider their experience in your industry. Providers with relevant experience will better understand your challenges and offer tailored solutions.
ScalabilityEnsure the services can grow with your business. As your company expands, you'll need a provider that can accommodate increased demand and complexity.
Technology StackVerify that their technology stack integrates with yours. Compatibility can prevent costly migrations and ensure smooth operation across systems.

Key Managed IT Services in Chicago

When selecting a managed IT services provider in Chicago, keep an eye out for the following key services:

  • Network management: Ensures your IT infrastructure is running smoothly, reducing downtime and maintaining performance.
  • Cybersecurity solutions: Protect your business from digital threats and data breaches, keeping sensitive information secure.
  • Cloud services: Offers scalable resources and flexibility, allowing your team to access data and applications from anywhere.
  • Data backup and recovery: Safeguards your data with regular backups and swift recovery options in case of data loss.
  • IT consulting: Provides strategic guidance to align your IT operations with business goals and improve efficiency.
  • Unified communications: Enhances collaboration and communication across platforms, improving productivity within your team.
  • Business continuity planning: Prepares your organization for disruptions, ensuring operations continue without major interruptions.
  • AI-driven analytics: Utilizes artificial intelligence to provide insights and improve decision-making processes.
  • IT asset management: Helps track and manage hardware and software, optimizing lifecycle management.
  • Compliance support: Assists with industry-specific regulations, ensuring your business meets all necessary compliance requirements.

Benefits of Managed IT Services in Chicago

Partnering with a managed IT services provider in Chicago offers several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:

  • Enhanced security: With cybersecurity solutions, your business is protected against threats and data breaches.
  • Cost efficiency: Managed services help optimize IT spending by providing predictable costs and reducing the need for in-house resources.
  • Scalability: Cloud services offer scalable resources, allowing your business to grow without major infrastructure changes.
  • Increased productivity: IT consulting and support ensure your systems are optimized, minimizing downtime and boosting team efficiency.
  • Regulatory compliance: Compliance support helps your business meet industry regulations, avoiding costly fines and ensuring smooth operations.
  • Improved collaboration: Unified communications enhance team interaction, making it easier to collaborate across different platforms.
  • Business continuity: Data backup and recovery services ensure that your operations can quickly recover from disruptions or data loss.

Costs and Pricing Structures of Managed IT Services in Chicago

Managed IT services providers in Chicago typically offer custom pricing to accommodate various business needs, sizes, and circumstances. Providers generally work within one of the following pricing structures:

  • Subscription-based: A recurring fee for ongoing services, allowing predictable budgeting.
  • Project-based: Costs are determined by the scope and duration of a specific project.
  • Hourly rate: Charges are based on the time spent on services, offering flexibility for short-term needs.
  • Tiered pricing: Different levels of service packages are offered at varying prices to suit different business requirements.
  • Per-user or per-device: Pricing is based on the number of users or devices, making it scalable as your business grows.

Key Factors That Influence Managed IT Services in Chicago Pricing

Beyond the specific pricing model, here are some additional factors that can influence the cost of managed IT services in Chicago:

  • Level of customization: Tailored solutions to fit unique business needs can increase costs due to the complexity involved.
  • Compliance requirements: Adhering to specific industry regulations can add to costs, especially when specialized expertise is needed.
  • Number of users: More users or devices typically mean higher costs, as they require more resources and support.
  • Service level agreements (SLAs): Higher service guarantees and faster response times can lead to increased pricing.
  • Technology stack: Integrating with advanced or specific technologies might involve additional expenses.

Being aware of these factors before you start seeking out custom quotes from providers helps you get a sense of what to expect and compare and contrast quotes more effectively.

Managed IT Services in Chicago: FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions about managed IT services providers in Chicago:

How do I choose the right managed IT services provider?

Start by identifying your business needs and priorities. Look for providers that offer services aligned with your goals, and check their experience in your industry. Evaluate their support availability and responsiveness, and consider customer reviews to gauge satisfaction. Pricing and flexibility are also key factors.

What should I expect during the onboarding process?

During onboarding, expect an assessment of your current IT infrastructure. Providers will work with you to identify areas for improvement and create a tailored plan. You’ll likely receive training and support to ensure a smooth transition. Clear communication and a dedicated team can make this process easier.

How can managed IT services help with cybersecurity?

Managed IT services offer cybersecurity solutions to protect your business from threats. They monitor your network for vulnerabilities and provide tools like firewalls and antivirus programs. Regular security audits and updates keep your systems secure. With expert guidance, you can reduce risks and safeguard data.

Are managed IT services scalable as my business grows?

Yes, managed IT services are designed to scale with your business. Providers offer flexible solutions that can adapt to changes in your company size or technology needs. Whether you’re expanding your team or upgrading systems, they can adjust their services to meet your evolving requirements.

How do managed IT services handle data backup and recovery?

Managed IT services ensure your data is backed up regularly and stored securely. In the event of data loss, they provide recovery solutions to restore information quickly. This minimizes downtime and helps maintain business continuity. Regular testing of backup systems ensures reliability.

What kind of support can I expect from a managed IT services provider?

You can expect 24/7 support from most managed IT services providers. They offer multiple contact methods, including phone, email, and chat. Quick response times and knowledgeable staff are essential for resolving issues efficiently. Providers often offer proactive monitoring to prevent problems before they arise.

What’s Next:

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Paulo Gardini Miguel
By Paulo Gardini Miguel

Paulo is the Director of Technology at the rapidly growing media tech company BWZ. Prior to that, he worked as a Software Engineering Manager and then Head Of Technology at Navegg, Latin America’s largest data marketplace, and as Full Stack Engineer at MapLink, which provides geolocation APIs as a service. Paulo draws insight from years of experience serving as an infrastructure architect, team leader, and product developer in rapidly scaling web environments. He’s driven to share his expertise with other technology leaders to help them build great teams, improve performance, optimize resources, and create foundations for scalability.