Co-Managed vs. Fully Managed IT: Which Support Model Fits Your Business?

For many growing companies, the question isn’t “Do we need IT help?”—it’s “What kind of help makes the most sense?”

That’s where choosing between co-managed and fully managed IT comes in. Both models deliver professional IT support, but they serve very different needs. Understanding which fits your business can save thousands and improve uptime, security, and productivity.

1. The Core Difference

At Atlantic Computer Services (ACS), we deliver both models—customized for each client’s size, goals, and risk profile.

2. What Co-Managed IT Looks Like in Practice

Co-managed IT isn’t “outsourcing.” It’s collaboration. Your in-house IT retains control of certain systems while ACS provides the heavy lifting behind the scenes.

Typical Co-Managed Setup:

• Internal IT handles end-user support, vendor relationships, or software administration.
• ACS provides backend infrastructure management, advanced cybersecurity, and 24/7 monitoring.
• Both teams share visibility through unified tools, ticketing, and documentation.

Key Benefits:

• Scales your internal team — access to specialized skills (Azure, compliance, EDR, etc.) without hiring full-time.
• Eliminates burnout — ACS handles patching, after-hours alerts, and routine maintenance.
• Gives instant access to enterprise tools — Datto RMM, SentinelOne, Huntress, Proofpoint, DNSFilter, and more.
• Strategic partnership — vCIO roadmap sessions ensure both teams are aligned on priorities.

ACS in Action:

We partner with local Wilmington firms that have at least one IT staffer but lack time for Azure migrations, vulnerability assessments, cybersecurity compliance or other IT related needs. Their IT lead remains the internal point of contact, while ACS provides a managed security stack, project manpower additional helpdesk support or monitoring coverage.

3. What Fully Managed IT Looks Like in Practice

Fully managed IT replaces the need for in-house IT altogether. ACS becomes your entire IT department—handling every device, user, and vendor relationship.

Typical Fully Managed Setup:

• ACS manages all support tickets, backups, patching, cybersecurity, projects, and vendor coordination.
• You get a predictable monthly cost and a single point of accountability.
• Your leadership team works directly with our vCIO for planning, budgeting, and quarterly reviews.

Key Benefits:

• Turnkey operation — we handle everything from onboarding new users to network design.
• Predictable costs — one monthly rate that includes support, monitoring, security, and backups.
• Enterprise-grade security — layered EDR, ITDR, MFA, and DNS protections included.
• Strategic focus — leadership can focus on growth instead of troubleshooting.

ACS in Action:

Our fully managed clients include CPA firms, private schools, and healthcare practices across Southeastern NC. They rely on ACS for complete network management, cybersecurity compliance, and technology modernization without the overhead of internal IT staff.

4. Side-by-Side Comparison

5. How to Decide Which Model Fits You

Choose Co-Managed IT if:

• You already have internal IT staff.
• Your team is swamped or lacks time for strategic projects.
• You need advanced cybersecurity tools but don’t want to replace existing personnel.
• You want to retain control but gain expertise and scalability.

Choose Fully Managed IT if:

• You don’t have internal IT staff.
• You want one predictable monthly cost and complete accountability.
• You need end-to-end security, backups, and support under one roof.
• You’d rather focus on running your business than managing technology.

Why Businesses in Wilmington Choose ACS

• Scalable Team: From a single IT coordinator to full MSP coverage, we adapt as your needs grow.
• Security Standardization: Every client—co-managed or fully managed—gets the same enterprise-grade cybersecurity baseline.
• Local Accountability: Wilmington-based engineers who know your environment and respond fast.
• Strategic Roadmap: Our vCIO sessions translate technical actions into business outcomes—budgeting, modernization, compliance, and lifecycle planning.

7. Common Misconceptions

“Co-Managed IT replaces my IT person.”
No—it strengthens them. You keep internal control and gain tools and expertise you can’t easily buy alone.

“Fully Managed IT means losing visibility.”
ACS provides full transparency—monthly reports, ticket dashboards, and quarterly reviews ensure total visibility into every system.

Final Takeaway

Both co-managed and fully managed IT models can work—but the right fit depends on your internal capacity, growth trajectory, and tolerance for risk.

ACS custom-builds each engagement so you never pay for what you don’t need, and you always have the coverage, security, and guidance your business deserves.