I was just on a call with a security expert who asked me a tough question:

“How do you tell a client they are at risk if they don’t implement everything you recommend?”

Translation: They want security, but they don’t want to pay for all of it.

This is a common problem. Businesses want a secure environment, but they also have budgets. And when push comes to shove, they often cut the wrong things.

Here’s my answer: If you can’t afford everything, stop paying for the things that won’t save your business.

Security vs. IT Support: Are You Investing in the Right Priorities?

Most companies bundle their IT and security budgets together. They want help desk support, system maintenance, and cybersecurity—but when they need to cut costs, security is often the first thing on the chopping block.

That is a dangerous mistake.

Think about it this way:

If a user’s laptop crashes, it’s an inconvenience.

If a hacker breaches your systems, it’s a business-ending event.

Your business will survive a help desk delay.

Your business may not survive a ransomware attack.

If you are forced to make a choice, prioritize security.

Would You Build a Fence That’s 8 Inches Tall?

Imagine you’re building a security fence around your office. You need to keep intruders out, so you start pricing materials.

Then, someone says, “We can’t afford a full fence, so let’s just make it 8 inches tall.”

Useless.

But instead of fixing the problem, they say, “Let’s also build a really comfortable lounge for our employees.”

Wait, what?

That is exactly what happens when businesses cut security but keep spending on IT support.

The security measures they do implement aren’t strong enough to protect them, but they still prioritize convenience over protection.

The Right Approach: Security First, Support Second

If your business can’t afford everything, focus on the things that actually reduce risk.

  • Security, compliance, and risk management should come first.
  • Help desk and IT support should come second.

Because when a breach happens, no one will care how comfortable your IT experience was.

They will only care about how well you protected the business.