By the founder
April 12, 2024

How Big Is the MSP Market?

Do you know most businesses, just like yours, are pondering over the future of IT support? They often ask, "how big is the MSP market?" It's a booming industry, expanding faster than many realize. Around the globe, countless MSPs operate, each contributing to a significant MSP market forecast. 

If you're one of those businesses wondering if investing in MSPs is a good deal, we've got you. In this blog, we'll explain the MSP market size, MSP market analysis, and what growth looks like for these companies. Stay tuned as we explore the layers of the MSP market in 2024, a pivotal year for technology and customer relations alike.

How big is the MSP market: What is MSP?

What is a managed service provider (MSP)?

Before we answer the question, “how big is the MSP market?” Let’s first define what MSP is. 

An MSP, or managed service provider, plays an important role in the IT infrastructure of businesses today. Simply put, an MSP is a company that remotely manages a customer's IT infrastructure and/or end-user systems, typically on a proactive basis and under a subscription model.

This means they take over the IT operations, allowing businesses to focus on their core competencies without worrying about their technical backend. What does an MSP do? Here's a breakdown:

  • Proactive monitoring and management of IT systems: They keep an eye on your networks and systems all the time. This helps catch issues before they become major problems.
  • Cybersecurity services: MSPs protect your data from threats. They manage firewalls, antivirus software, and more to keep your information safe.
  • Data backup and recovery: In case things go south, MSPs ensure your data is backed up and can be recovered swiftly to minimize downtime.
  • Cloud services: Many MSPs offer cloud services adoption, helping you move to or manage your cloud infrastructure.
  • Support and maintenance: Got a problem? MSPs often provide round-the-clock support to tackle any IT challenges that come up.
  • Strategic IT planning: Beyond just fixing problems, MSPs can help you plan your IT strategy to align with your business goals, ensuring you're getting the most out of your technology investments.

In essence, partnering with an MSP means you have a team of IT experts on your side. They handle the tech stuff so you can concentrate on growing your market share.  Whether it's making sure your data is secure, managing your cloud services, or just making sure everything runs smoothly, an MSP is there to make IT easy.

MSP market growth in 2030

How big is the MSP market? Market research forecast in 2030

According to Fortune Business Insights, the global market for managed service providers, or MSPs as we commonly know them, is on a steep climb. From a robust $283.90 billion in 2023, it's expected to skyrocket to an impressive $671.14 billion by 2030. 

Now that you understand how big the MSP market is, let’s define what's driving this growth, which is the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.1 percent. This isn't just overall market growth; it's a rapid expansion that showcases the critical role MSPs play in today's tech ecosystem.

Now, you might be wondering, "how many MSPs are out there?"

Current market trends

Market trends: How many MSPs are in the world?

To put things into perspective, consider the number of MSPs dotting the globe. A few years back, in 2019, ConnectWise pointed out that about 40,000 MSPs are in the United States. 

However, when you zoom out to view the picture globally, that global MSP number soars to roughly 130,000 managed services providers. That's a massive network of businesses focused on managing IT services for other companies, ensuring smooth operations, cybersecurity, and technological advancements.

So, what does all this mean for you? Well, if you're a business looking for a partner to handle your IT needs and managed network, there's no shortage of options. 

How big is the MSP market? Well, this dense network of MSPs worldwide means you can find services tailored exactly to your needs, whether you're a small startup or a sprawling enterprise size. 

The managed services market growth also signals a shift in how businesses approach technology—not just as a support function but as a strategic asset.

MSP market size in 2024

Managed service market size: How profitable is MSP? 

The topic profitability of MSPs is a subject with layers. On average, MSPs see a profit margin of about 8%. 

However, those MSPs that hit the mark of being "best in class" can boast margins of up to 18 percent. It's a significant jump, showing that excellence in service delivery and management can really pay off.

When we look at how many companies rely on MSPs for their IT needs and how big the MSP market is, the numbers are telling. According to Gitnux, about 67% of businesses outsource a portion of their IT infrastructure to these providers. 

This reliance highlights how critical MSPs have become in the modern business landscape. They're not just an option; for many, they're an essential part of operations.

Drilling down further, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) show even more reliance on MSPs. Approximately 75% of SMEs hand over the reins of their IT management to MSPs. 

This MSP market analysis sheds light on the trust and dependency that smaller businesses place on external IT providers. It's a trust that speaks to the capability of MSPs to tailor their services to meet diverse needs.

As for the average number of clients an MSP has, this can vary widely based on the MSP market size and its capacity to serve a broad client base. 

However, the diversity in client numbers reflects the adaptable nature of MSPs to scale their services. Whether serving a handful of large enterprises or a larger number of SMEs, MSPs flex to meet the demand.

MSP market analysis and forecast period: How to be successful?

Market analysis: What makes an MSP successful? 

Now you know how big the MSP market is, it’s time to understand how successful MSPs manage their business.  

A successful MSP excels by providing expert IT solutions, ensuring operational reliability, and offering scalable services tailored to each business's needs.

Companies seek MSPs for their ability to enhance cybersecurity, streamline operations, and deliver cost-effective technology strategies, making them indispensable partners in understanding today's complex digital landscape.

When businesses search for an MSP, they're looking for a partner who can guide them through the complexities of digital transformation. Below are the factors that make an MSP stand out in the eyes of their clients: 

Delivers expertise

MSPs shine by offering unparalleled expertise in the IT field. Clients seek providers knowledgeable about specific industry challenges and capable of customizing IT solutions that propel businesses forward.

Ensures reliability

Businesses cannot afford to pause. An MSP that promises and delivers high uptime and minimal interruptions becomes an essential ally, one that businesses rely heavily upon for smooth operations.

Provides security

With digital threats on the rise, a strong stance on cybersecurity is non-negotiable. Businesses favor MSPs that can fortify their digital assets against threats, ensuring peace of mind in a precarious digital landscape.

Offers scalability

As businesses evolve, so do their IT needs. An MSP must adapt its services to the changing scale of operations, demonstrating flexibility without sacrificing service quality or security.

Communicates clearly

The ability to demystify IT jargon and maintain open lines of communication is highly valued. Effective MSPs translate complex IT scenarios into actionable insights, keeping businesses in the loop at every turn.

Demonstrates value

Above all, businesses want to see tangible benefits from their partnership with an MSP. Demonstrating how IT services translate to improved efficiency, cost savings, or revenue growth can distinguish an MSP as a valuable partner in achieving business objectives.

Improving your profitability

How do you improve your managed security & MSP profitability? 

With how big the MSP market is, standing out and securing profit isn’t just about delivering services. It's about mastering the art of blending technical prowess with smart business strategies.

Here’s how you can elevate your MSP to new heights of profitability and client satisfaction.

Optimize your service offerings

First up, focus on what you do best. Tailor your services to meet specific client needs, ensuring high value and efficiency. This means constantly evaluating and enhancing your IT solutions to stay ahead in the MSP market growth.

Adopt a proactive approach

Shift from a reactive to a proactive service model. This means monitoring clients' IT environments to prevent issues before they arise, saving time and resources in the long run and significantly enhancing client satisfaction.

Utilize automation

Leverage automation tools for routine tasks. It frees up your team to focus on more complex, high-value activities. Automation not only increases efficiency but also reduces the risk of human error.

Develop strategic pricing models

Adopt pricing strategies that reflect the value you provide. Consider offering tiered service levels or bundling services to cater to different client needs and budgets. Effective pricing strategies can differentiate your MSP in the competitive landscape.

Enhance client relationships

Build strong, transparent relationships with your clients. Understand how big the MSP market is and that your client’s business goals and your services are there to achieve those goals. Satisfied clients are more likely to remain loyal and refer others to your services.

Focus on cybersecurity

In today's digital age, cybersecurity is a top concern for businesses. Offering robust cybersecurity services can set your MSP apart and open new revenue streams.

Train your team

Ensure your team is well-trained and up-to-date with the latest technologies and industry practices. A knowledgeable and skilled team is essential for delivering high-quality services and maintaining a competitive edge.

Emphasize marketing

Invest in marketing, especially digital marketing. Collaborating with a marketing agency can help you reach a wider audience online, attract potential clients, establish your brand presence in the digital space, and improve your MSP market size. 

Why choose MSP Launchpad?

Supercharge your MSP's growth with MSP Launchpad

Are you struggling to make your MSP stand out despite the market growth of other companies? That's where our team at MSP Launchpad comes into play. With a proven track record of driving leads and elevating conversions, our firm is the marketing partner you've been searching for— regardless of how big the MSP market is. 

At the core of our success is a suite of services designed to meet the unique marketing needs of MSPs. From the MSP Growth Accelerator Program and cutting-edge SEO strategies to Google Ads and Websites-as-a-Service, every tool and technique is crafted to ensure your MSP reaches and resonates with your target audience. 

Backed by a team of experts committed to your MSP market growth, MSP Launchpad offers the strategic edge needed to thrive in today's competitive MSP market size. 

But what truly sets us apart is its dedication to generating qualified leads consistently. Leveraging the power of inbound marketing, content creation, and digital advertising, MSP Launchpad ensures that your MSP is not just seen but sought after. 

Contact us now

Take action with the best team now! 

Ready to transform your MSP's lead generation and conversion strategy? Reach out to us today and discover how our expertise can elevate your MSP market growth.  Dive into a partnership that brings out the best in your MSP, using proven marketing strategies and personalized service to achieve remarkable growth.

Don't let your MSP blend into the background. Contact us today at louis@msplaunchpad.com. With MSP Launchpad, your growth is just the beginning.

Frequently asked questions

What does managed services market analysis reveal about future trends?

How big is the MSP market? Well, MSP market analysis indicates significant growth in the sector, driven by advancements in cloud-based services and the increasing adoption of cloud technologies by businesses. With the global managed services market poised to expand, enterprises of varying sizes are leveraging these services to enhance operational efficiency.

This trend is further supported by market intelligence that highlights a shift towards managed data and managed data center services, catering to the burgeoning demand for robust data management solutions.

How do managed security services protect businesses in today's digital landscape?

Managed security services are crucial for businesses navigating the complexities of cybersecurity in the era of COVID-19. As remote work becomes more prevalent, these services offer comprehensive security solutions that safeguard against digital threats.

By utilizing managed network services, businesses can ensure the integrity of their network infrastructure, thereby protecting sensitive data and maintaining uninterrupted operations.

What is the role of managed networks in the growth of the managed services industry?

Managed networks play a pivotal role in the expansion of the managed services industry. By offering dedicated network services, MSPs enable businesses to optimize their operations, ensuring seamless connectivity and robust performance.

This is particularly relevant as enterprises embrace remote work models, necessitating reliable and secure network solutions to support their distributed workforces.

How do market forecasts predict the evolution of cloud services?

Market forecasts anticipate a significant increase in the demand for cloud services, with a focus on cloud migration and cloud-managed solutions.

This MSP market growth is attributed to the flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness of cloud technologies, which align with the evolving needs of modern businesses. As the market for cloud services expands, it is expected to drive the overall growth of the managed services market.

What insights do market intelligence reports offer on managed services market trends?

Market intelligence reports provide valuable insights into managed services market trends, highlighting the increasing reliance on managed mobility and cloud-based services.

These reports emphasize the importance of innovative solutions in addressing the dynamic needs of businesses, particularly in response to the challenges posed by COVID-19 and the shift towards remote work. Through detailed analysis, these reports offer a comprehensive overview of the industry's direction and the opportunities for MSPs.

What findings are typically included in a research report on managed services?

A research report on managed services typically includes an in-depth examination of market dynamics, industry trends, and the competitive landscape. It explores the growth of the managed services market, emphasizing the adoption of cloud services and the integration of big data analytics.

Additionally, the MSP market size report provides forecasts for the market's development, offering insights into potential areas for expansion and innovation within the managed services sector.

How are managed services market trends influencing enterprise IT strategies?

Managed services market trends are significantly influencing enterprise IT strategies by emphasizing the importance of managed information services and the strategic adoption of cloud technologies.

As businesses strive to remain competitive, they are increasingly turning to MSPs to streamline their IT operations, enhance security, and facilitate cloud migration. These MSP market analysis trends underscore the shift towards more agile, secure, and efficient IT solutions, enabling enterprises to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape.