Thinking of switching IT support in London? Learn the step-by-step process, what to watch for, and how to avoid downtime or data loss.
Switching IT Support Providers in London: How to Make It Painless (2026 Edition)
Switching IT support providers is a big decision for any London SME. The risks are real—downtime, data loss, or a bumpy onboarding can disrupt your business. But staying with a provider who isn’t delivering is even riskier.
Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to making the switch smooth and stress-free, based on how we manage transitions for London and Greater London businesses at Amazing Support (multi-award winning, Microsoft Partner, Cyber Essentials certified).
1) Don’t give notice until you have a plan
Secure your new provider and agree a transition timeline before telling your current IT partner you’re leaving. This prevents gaps in support and access.
2) Gather documentation and access
Work with your new provider to collect:
- admin passwords and credentials
- network diagrams and documentation
- asset lists (devices, users, software)
- key vendor and licensing info
The more you have upfront, the faster and safer your onboarding will be.
3) Communicate with your team
Let your staff know what’s happening, when, and who to contact for support during the transition. This reduces confusion and keeps productivity high.
4) Plan the handover in detail
Your new provider should:
- coordinate with your outgoing IT company
- manage the technical cutover (accounts, devices, cloud services)
- schedule any required on-site support
- minimise downtime and user disruption
A written transition plan is essential.
5) Test everything before “go live”
Check logins, email, shared drives, backups, and remote access. Fix any issues before declaring the transition complete.
6) Review and optimise after the switch
Schedule a service review 30–60 days post-switch to catch teething problems and ensure you’re getting promised value.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Not having admin access or documentation (creates delays and risk)
- Rushing the transition (missed steps, more downtime)
- Poor communication with users (increases tickets and confusion)
- No clear post-switch review (issues linger)
Quick FAQs
How long does it take to switch IT support providers?
For most London SMEs, 1–2 weeks for a smooth handover—complex/multi-site setups may take longer.
Will we lose any data?
With a structured transition and good documentation, data loss is extremely rare.
What if our old provider isn’t cooperative?
A professional new provider can work around this, but it’s best to leave on good terms if possible.
If you’re considering a switch, we can map out a
transition plan tailored to your business, so you know exactly what to expect—no surprises, no downtime.
