Frequently Asked Questions About Hampton Roads IT Support by CNI & Managed IT Services FAQ

Businesses across Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Suffolk often have similar questions when evaluating Managed IT Services or Co-Managed IT Support. Below are the most common questions we hear from business owners and internal IT teams looking for a trusted technology partner in Hampton Roads.

What is a Managed Service Provider (MSP)?

A Managed Service Provider, often called an MSP, is a company that remotely manages and maintains your IT systems for a predictable monthly fee.

An MSP provides services such as network monitoring, cybersecurity protection, help desk support, cloud management, data backup, and compliance oversight. Instead of hiring a full in-house IT department, businesses in Hampton Roads rely on a Managed Service Provider to handle day-to-day IT operations, system security, and long-term technology planning.

What is the difference between Managed IT and Co-Managed IT services?

Managed IT Services means your MSP fully manages your technology environment. This includes network monitoring, help desk support, cybersecurity, compliance, cloud systems, backups, and strategic planning.

Co-Managed IT Services means your organization already has internal IT staff, and the MSP works alongside them. The MSP provides additional monitoring tools, cybersecurity expertise, compliance support, and escalation resources while your internal team maintains direct operational control.

Businesses in Virginia Beach and Norfolk often choose co-managed IT when their internal IT department needs support with cybersecurity, compliance requirements, or 24/7 monitoring.

How much do Managed IT Services cost in Hampton Roads?

Managed IT Services pricing depends on the size of your organization, number of devices, compliance requirements, and level of cybersecurity protection needed.

Most small and mid-sized businesses in Hampton Roads prefer flat-rate monthly IT service plans because they provide predictable budgeting and reduce unexpected repair costs. A consultation can help determine the right level of support for your specific needs.

Do small businesses in Virginia Beach really need Managed IT support?

Yes. Small businesses are frequently targeted by cybercriminals because they often lack dedicated cybersecurity resources.

Managed IT Services provide proactive monitoring, security updates, data backup protection, and structured IT management that help small businesses in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesapeake reduce risk and improve operational stability.

What services are included in Managed IT Support?

Managed IT Services typically include:

  • 24/7 network monitoring

  • Help desk support and remote troubleshooting

  • Cybersecurity protection and threat detection

  • Data backup and disaster recovery

  • Cloud services management

  • Compliance support for HIPAA, NIST, or CMMC

  • Strategic IT consulting and planning

The goal is to keep your systems secure, stable, and aligned with your business objectives.

How fast should an IT company respond to service requests?

Response time varies depending on the severity of the issue and your service agreement. Many Hampton Roads businesses look for providers that offer structured response time targets and documented escalation processes.

Fast response and proactive monitoring are key indicators of a reliable Managed IT Services provider.

Can a Co-Managed IT provider support our internal IT department?

Yes. Co-Managed IT Services are specifically designed to extend the capabilities of your internal IT team.

An MSP can provide advanced cybersecurity tools, compliance guidance, network monitoring platforms, and additional help desk capacity. This approach allows your internal team to focus on strategic projects while maintaining operational efficiency.

What industries benefit most from Managed IT Services in Hampton Roads?

Managed IT Services are commonly used by:

  • Medical and dental practices

  • Law firms and legal offices

  • Accounting and insurance agencies

  • Engineering and architecture firms

  • Professional services companies

  • Small and mid-sized businesses

Any organization that depends on secure networks, compliance standards, or reliable cloud access can benefit from managed IT support.

Is Managed IT better than hiring in-house IT staff?

It depends on your organization’s size and complexity. Many small and mid-sized businesses in Norfolk and Chesapeake find that Managed IT Services provide broader expertise at a lower cost than hiring multiple full-time IT employees.

For larger organizations with internal IT departments, Co-Managed IT Services offer additional support without replacing your internal team.

How does Managed IT improve cybersecurity for Hampton Roads businesses?

Managed IT Services strengthen cybersecurity through continuous monitoring, patch management, firewall configuration, endpoint protection, and employee security awareness guidance.

Proactive cybersecurity reduces the likelihood of ransomware attacks, data breaches, and operational downtime.

Do you offer remote IT support in Hampton Roads?

Yes. Remote IT Services allow technicians to securely access systems and resolve issues quickly without waiting for an on-site visit.

Businesses in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Suffolk benefit from faster issue resolution and reduced downtime through secure remote support tools.

What should I look for when choosing a Managed IT Services provider in Hampton Roads?

When evaluating IT providers, consider:

  • Experience supporting businesses in your industry

  • Clear service agreements and transparent billing

  • Documented cybersecurity practices

  • Compliance expertise if required

  • Structured monitoring and response processes

  • Local presence with regional support capabilities

Choosing the right MSP is about long-term partnership, not just fixing technical problems.

Do you serve areas outside Hampton Roads?

Computer Networks, Inc. serves Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Suffolk. Through trusted partners in Roanoke, we also support Southwest Virginia. Remote and co-managed IT services are available statewide.

How do I know if my business needs Managed or Co-Managed IT Services?

If your business experiences frequent downtime, cybersecurity concerns, compliance requirements, or limited internal IT resources, Managed IT Services may be the right solution.

If you already have an IT employee or department but need additional cybersecurity tools, compliance oversight, or 24/7 monitoring, Co-Managed IT Services may be a better fit.

Ready to Learn More About Managed IT Services in Hampton Roads?

If you are exploring Managed IT Services or Co-Managed IT Support in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, or Suffolk, contact Computer Networks, Inc. to schedule a consultation and review your current technology environment.

Call (757) 333-3299 or request a consultation online.