Frequently Asked Questions · Serving WA · OR · ID · MT
Common Questions About —
Managed IT, Cybersecurity & Compliance
Everything you need to know about working with inTech Consulting — from services and pricing to compliance, onboarding, and support. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us directly and we'll answer your question personally.
Category 1
Managed IT & Support
What is included in your Managed IT Services plan?
Our Managed IT Services include unlimited support, IT operations management, network and server maintenance, device management, patching, software updates, cybersecurity tools, 24/7 monitoring, and vCIO strategic guidance. We become your complete IT department for a predictable monthly cost.
What is Co-Managed IT and how is it different from Managed IT?
Co-Managed IT allows your internal IT team and inTech to work together. We supplement your team with additional expertise, manpower, tools, cybersecurity support, and strategic guidance. Managed IT replaces your internal IT function, while co-managed enhances it without removing control from your organization.
What is included in Network and Infrastructure Management?
Our Network and Infrastructure Management service covers proactive network monitoring, firewall configuration and management, switch and Wi-Fi infrastructure, and vendor management for ISPs and telecom providers. This service is ideal for multi-site businesses or growing offices experiencing network performance issues across the Pacific Northwest.
What does your Backup and Disaster Recovery service include?
Our Backup and Disaster Recovery services include automated encrypted backups, offsite replication, and tested recovery plans. We verify backups quarterly with actual recovery testing — so you know they work when ransomware, hardware failure, or human error strikes. Recovery time objectives (RTO) and recovery point objectives (RPO) are defined per client based on business criticality.
What's the difference between MSP, IT support, and IT consulting?
An MSP (Managed Service Provider) delivers ongoing IT management, monitoring, and support.
IT support typically handles break-fix issues as needed.
IT consulting focuses on strategic planning, architecture, compliance, and high-level guidance.
inTech provides all three integrated into one cohesive service.
Do you support remote and hybrid work environments?
Absolutely. We provide secure remote access solutions, MFA, VPN configuration, cloud-based productivity tools, Microsoft 365 management, endpoint protection, and ongoing support for distributed teams across the Pacific Northwest.
Category 2
Cybersecurity & Compliance
What cybersecurity protections do you provide?
Our Cybersecurity Services offer layered protection including endpoint protection, firewalls, MFA, SOC/SIEM monitoring, vulnerability scanning, patch management, email security, zero-trust principles, and compliance-driven controls. Our security program is built to safeguard regulated and high-risk environments.
Does inTech support compliance frameworks like CMMC, DFARS, HIPAA, PCI, and NIST 800-171?
Yes. inTech has extensive experience helping businesses meet and maintain compliance with CMMC, DFARS, HIPAA, PCI, NIST 800-171, SOC 2, FFIEC, and NCUA frameworks. We provide assessments, remediation planning, continuous monitoring, documentation support, and ongoing compliance management. See our Compliance & Risk services for details.
When do I need to be CMMC 2.0 certified?
The DoD is rolling out CMMC 2.0 requirements in a phased approach starting in late 2025. By 2028, all DoD contracts are expected to include CMMC clauses. However, many prime contractors are already requiring CMMC readiness from subcontractors ahead of official DoD deadlines. If your contract includes DFARS 252.204-7012 or you handle CUI, you likely need Level 2 — and CMMC programs typically take 9–12 months to complete.
What does HIPAA compliance actually require for a medical practice?
HIPAA requires three categories of safeguards for any practice handling ePHI: Administrative (policies, risk assessments, training, BAAs), Physical (facility access controls, workstation security, device disposal), and Technical (encryption, access controls, audit logs, automatic logoff). Practices also must conduct annual Security Risk Assessments. See our Healthcare page for detailed HIPAA guidance.
Will inTech sign a Business Associate Agreement (BAA)?
Yes. HIPAA requires a BAA between a covered entity and any Business Associate that handles ePHI — including IT providers. inTech signs a comprehensive BAA with every healthcare client, committing to HIPAA Privacy and Security Rule obligations, breach notification responsibilities, and subcontractor requirements.
What happens if we get hit with ransomware?
inTech's cybersecurity program is designed to prevent ransomware before it spreads — our EDR automatically contains suspicious processes, our SOC monitors 24/7 for indicators of compromise, and we maintain offline, tested backups ransomware can't reach. If an incident does occur, we follow documented incident response procedures: contain, eradicate, recover, post-incident review. We coordinate with your cyber insurance carrier, legal counsel, and any required regulatory notifications.
What are Access Control Systems and do we need one?
Our Access Control Systems service covers card readers, keyless entry, video surveillance, and physical protection integration. If your business handles CMMC-covered CUI, HIPAA-protected ePHI, or other regulated data, physical access control is a required security layer — not optional. We design and install systems that meet CMMC 2.0 and HIPAA physical security control requirements.
Category 3
Cloud & IT Strategy
Can inTech help us migrate to Microsoft 365 or Azure?
Yes. Our Cloud Migration Services cover Microsoft 365, Azure, SharePoint, and OneDrive migrations for Pacific Northwest businesses. We plan for zero-downtime transitions, apply security hardening (MFA, conditional access, DLP), and deliver end-user training so your team can actually use the new tools. Most migrations complete in 4–8 weeks depending on mailbox count and data volume.
What does vCIO service include and who needs it?
Our vCIO (virtual CIO) services provide fractional Chief Information Officer support — IT budgeting, strategic roadmapping, vendor management, compliance guidance, risk assessments, and executive-level technology planning. vCIO is included with our Managed IT and Co-Managed IT engagements, giving you CIO-level strategy without a separate line item. Typical engagements include quarterly business reviews and long-term technology roadmaps aligned to your business goals.
How can inTech help us adopt AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, or Claude?
Our AI Consulting practice helps businesses adopt ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Claude, and other AI tools safely — with governance policies, tool selection, and compliance guardrails for HIPAA, CMMC, attorney-client privilege, and SOC 2 environments. AI Consulting is included with our Managed IT and Co-Managed IT engagements. Our founder Raj Sidhu is the published author of Beyond the Prompt: A Business Owner's Guide to Understanding AI, giving inTech clients direct access to recognized AI thought leadership.
Can we use ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot with CUI or HIPAA data?
Not without careful configuration. Consumer versions of ChatGPT, Claude, and Copilot may retain, log, or train on your inputs — a direct violation of CMMC 2.0 CUI handling requirements and HIPAA Security Rule obligations. Enterprise tiers (ChatGPT Enterprise, Claude for Work, Microsoft 365 Copilot with proper tenant configuration) can be deployed compliantly with the right guardrails. Our AI Consulting service assesses your compliance obligations, selects the right tool tier, and configures data boundaries before your team starts using AI.
Category 4
Communications & Infrastructure
Do you sell and support business phone systems?
Yes. inTech deploys cloud-based VoIP business phone systems with mobile apps, call routing, SMS, and integrated call recording. We handle full deployment, number porting from your existing carrier, and ongoing support — ideal for businesses replacing aging phone systems or unifying multi-site communications across the Pacific Northwest.
Does inTech install structured cabling for new office buildouts?
Yes. Our Structured Cabling service covers Cat6 and Cat6A data cabling, fiber runs, low-voltage wiring, and network closet buildouts across the Pacific Northwest. We handle new construction, office remodels, and warehouse expansions. All installations are certified — critical for VoIP performance, Wi-Fi coverage, and network reliability.
Can you integrate phones, cabling, and access control in one project?
Yes — this is one of our specialties. New office buildouts, remodels, and multi-site expansions benefit from coordinated infrastructure: structured cabling provides the physical foundation, VoIP phones and networking ride on top, and access control secures the space. Delivering all three through one vendor eliminates finger-pointing between contractors and typically shortens project timelines.
Category 5
Pricing & Costs
How much does managed IT service cost?
Managed IT services typically cost $175–$225 per user per month for fully-managed IT — including 24/7 monitoring, unlimited helpdesk, endpoint security, patch management, strategic planning, and vCIO and AI Consulting services bundled at no extra charge. A 50-person company would typically invest $6,250–$11,250 per month. Pricing varies based on compliance requirements, environment complexity, and industry. See our Managed IT Services page for detailed pricing.
How much does Co-Managed IT cost compared to Managed IT?
Co-Managed IT typically runs $75–$150 per user per month — less than full managed IT since your internal team handles a portion of the work. vCIO strategic guidance and AI Consulting are bundled at no extra cost. This model works well for organizations with 1–3 internal IT staff who need additional tools, expertise, or 24/7 coverage without fully outsourcing.
Are vCIO and AI Consulting services priced separately?
No. Both vCIO strategic services and AI Consulting are bundled into every Managed IT and Co-Managed IT engagement at no additional cost. You get executive-level IT strategy and AI adoption guidance from Raj Sidhu, the published author of Beyond the Prompt, as part of your standard monthly fee — not as a premium add-on.
How much does CMMC 2.0 Level 2 compliance cost?
A typical 50–100 person DoD contractor invests $15,000–$75,000 for a full CMMC Level 2 readiness program — including gap assessment, CUI enclave design, documentation, technical controls, training, and assessment support. The C3PAO assessment itself is a separate $15,000–$40,000 cost paid to the assessor.
How much do business phone systems, cabling, or access control cost?
Business phone systems, structured cabling, and access control systems are project-based rather than monthly. Pricing depends on square footage, number of drops, number of doors or phones, and whether it's new construction or a retrofit. Book a free consultation and we'll walk your space, understand your needs, and provide a detailed written quote.
How does your 90-day money-back guarantee work?
If at any time during the first 90 days you feel inTech is not the right fit, we refund 100% of your monthly fees. Additionally, we assist with transitioning you to another provider to ensure continuity. This guarantee reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional service and value. No fine print. No hassle.
Are there setup or onboarding fees?
Onboarding is typically included in your first month's managed IT fees for standard engagements. Complex environments — multi-site businesses, compliance-heavy industries, or organizations migrating from legacy systems — may have a separate one-time onboarding investment. We discuss this transparently during our initial consultation so there are no surprises.
Category 6
Onboarding & Support
What does onboarding with inTech look like?
Onboarding includes an in-depth environment assessment, documentation of systems, security review, ticketing setup, device onboarding, and implementation of monitoring tools. We create a 90-day roadmap and communicate clearly throughout the process to ensure a smooth, disruption-free transition.
How quickly can inTech onboard a new client?
Most clients are fully onboarded within 30 days. Week 1 is discovery and network audit. Weeks 2–3 are deploying monitoring tools, security agents, and backup systems. Week 4 includes documentation, team introductions, and a kickoff strategic review. Larger or more complex environments may take up to 60 days. We run in parallel with your current provider during the transition so there's zero gap in coverage.
What response times can we expect?
inTech provides fast, reliable support with defined response and resolution targets. Critical issues are addressed immediately, while standard support requests are handled quickly by our Pacific Northwest-based helpdesk. Our proactive monitoring also resolves many issues before users notice them.
Does inTech offer 24/7 monitoring and support?
Yes. inTech provides 24/7 monitoring of systems, security logs, alerts, and infrastructure. While support tickets are handled during standard business hours, critical alerts and system issues are monitored continuously to prevent downtime or security incidents.
Do you offer on-site support?
Yes. While many issues are resolved remotely, we also provide on-site support across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana when hands-on assistance is required. Scheduled onsite visits for strategic reviews and deployments are also common.
Is your support team offshore?
No. inTech's team is based in the Pacific Northwest — not offshore. You'll work with real technicians who share your timezone, understand PNW business culture, and can come onsite when needed. This matters especially for compliance-heavy industries like DoD contractors where offshore access to CUI creates regulatory issues.
What industries and business sizes does inTech serve?
inTech supports small to mid-sized organizations with 10–500 users across manufacturing, aerospace, defense, healthcare, financial services, legal, construction, maintenance & repair, and transportation & logistics. We serve businesses throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana — with headquarters in Kent, WA.
Category 7
About inTech Consulting
What makes inTech different from other MSPs in the Pacific Northwest?
inTech stands out for our security-first approach, deep compliance expertise, local Pacific Northwest-based support, and our unique 90-day money-back guarantee. We operate as an extension of your organization — not just a vendor — providing personal, responsive service backed by enterprise-grade technology and 24/7 monitoring. Every engagement includes vCIO strategy and AI Consulting bundled at no extra cost.
Is inTech Consulting a certified minority-owned business?
Yes. inTech Consulting is a certified Minority & Women-Owned Business Enterprise (OMWBE) through Washington State and a certified Public Works Small Business Enterprise (PWSBE). These certifications qualify our clients for supplier diversity contracts with state, federal, and major corporate clients. We're also a proud partner and member of the PHCC (Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors) Association.
Who founded inTech Consulting?
inTech Consulting was founded by Raj Sidhu, a published author and recognized thought leader in AI, cybersecurity, and IT strategy. Raj authored Beyond the Prompt: A Business Owner's Guide to Understanding AI and continues to speak at industry events across the Pacific Northwest. Learn more about our team on our About page.
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Serving Businesses Across the Pacific Northwest
inTech Consulting provides managed IT, cybersecurity, and compliance services throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana:
Seattle · Tacoma · Bellevue · Renton · Kent · Auburn · Kirkland · Redmond · Everett · Spokane · Olympia · Bellingham · Vancouver · Portland · Bend · Salem · Eugene · Boise · Nampa · Meridian · Idaho Falls · Coeur d'Alene · Missoula · Billings · Great Falls · Bozeman · Helena