Securafy | Knowledge Hub

Best Co-Managed IT for U.S. Manufacturers in 2026

Written by Randy Hall | Jun 12, 2026 12:00:00 PM

Manufacturing IT leaders are facing a difficult balancing act. Your internal team knows your production systems inside and out, but keeping up with compliance mandates, cybersecurity threats, and after-hours support is stretching them thin. Securafy offers co-managed IT services designed specifically for U.S. manufacturers who need enterprise-grade security without replacing their internal staff.

This guide compares the top co-managed IT providers for manufacturers with internal IT teams. You'll find detailed breakdowns of each provider's strengths, compliance capabilities, and how they can support your manufacturing operations.

Quick guide: 6 co-managed IT providers for U.S. manufacturers

  1. Securafy: The top co-managed IT provider for manufacturers needing CMMC, HIPAA, and PCI compliance with 24/7 human-operated SOC monitoring
  2. Ntiva: A nationwide MSP with vCISO services and manufacturing industry support
  3. Integris: An MSP with a dedicated manufacturing practice and CMMC certification experience
  4. All Covered: Konica Minolta's IT division offering managed services across multiple verticals
  5. Synoptek: A global managed experience provider with advisory and integration services
  6. LevelBlue: An MSSP focused on managed detection and response for regulated industries

How we chose co-managed IT providers for manufacturers

Manufacturers face distinct IT challenges. You're running OT systems alongside traditional networks. Compliance requirements like CMMC 2.0 are becoming mandatory for defense work. And your internal IT team needs a partner who can fill gaps—not take over.

We evaluated providers based on criteria that matter to manufacturing IT leaders:

  • Manufacturing-specific expertise: Does the provider understand ERP systems, IoT device management, and production floor requirements?
  • Compliance support: Can they help you achieve and maintain CMMC, HIPAA, PCI, or NIST standards with audit-ready documentation?
  • 24/7 SOC capabilities: Do they offer around-the-clock monitoring with human analysts—not just automated alerts?
  • Co-managed flexibility: Will they work alongside your internal team rather than insisting on full outsourcing?
  • Response time guarantees: Do they back their SLAs with contractual commitments?
  • Scalability: Can they support your growth as you add locations or increase headcount?

The 6 top co-managed IT providers for U.S. manufacturers

1. Securafy: Best overall co-managed IT for U.S. manufacturers

Securafy stands apart as the top choice for manufacturers who need serious compliance support and cybersecurity depth. The company has protected Ohio businesses since 1989 and specializes in working with internal IT teams at manufacturing companies with 100 or more employees.

What makes Securafy particularly valuable for manufacturers is the focus on prevention-first security. Rather than simply detecting threats after they execute, Securafy stops ransomware and malware before they can run. This approach is critical for manufacturing environments where production downtime can cost thousands per hour.

Securafy delivers 24/7 human-operated SOC monitoring with real analysts reviewing alerts—not just automated systems firing off tickets. The company holds a 10-minute contractual response guarantee for critical issues, giving manufacturing IT leaders confidence that urgent problems won't sit in a queue.

Securafy features

  • 24/7 Human-Operated SOC: Real security analysts monitor your environment around the clock, actively responding to threats rather than forwarding automated alerts to your inbox
  • Prevention-First Zero Trust Architecture: Stops ransomware before execution using default-deny application control—especially important for protecting production systems
  • CMMC, HIPAA, and PCI Compliance Support: Securafy's Comply-CARE tier includes audit-ready documentation, continuous compliance monitoring, and evidence collection for regulatory examinations
  • vCISO Services: Manufacturing companies gain executive-level security leadership without the cost of a full-time hire, helping you answer board questions about cyber risk
  • Immutable Offsite Backups: Quarterly restore tests verify your data can actually be recovered—not just that backups completed successfully
  • Local On-Site Support: Engineers in Columbus and Cleveland can be on your manufacturing floor when remote support isn't enough

Securafy pros and cons

Pros:

  • Named "Most Trusted MSP in North America" at the 2024 Soteria Awards, with a 98% client retention rate
  • Flat per-user monthly pricing with no hidden fees—IT budgeting becomes predictable
  • 90-day risk-free trial lets you evaluate the service before committing long-term

Cons:

  • Primarily serves the Ohio and Midwest region, though remote support is available nationwide
  • Three-tier service model (Essential-CARE, Secure-CARE, Comply-CARE) requires selecting the right fit for your compliance needs
  • Manufacturing companies under 50 employees may find full-service plans more extensive than needed

2. Ntiva: A nationwide option with vCISO services

Ntiva operates as a national managed IT provider with offices across multiple states. The company offers both fully managed and co-managed arrangements, allowing manufacturers to supplement their internal IT staff where gaps exist.

Ntiva assigns clients to a local "pod" of technicians who learn your environment, backed by a national network for after-hours coverage. The company has worked with manufacturing clients and offers compliance support including CMMC readiness services.

Ntiva features

  • Local Pod Model: Dedicated technicians familiar with your systems handle day-to-day support
  • vCISO Services: Executive-level security guidance for manufacturers building compliance programs
  • Cloud Solutions: Migration and management for Azure and other cloud platforms

Ntiva pros and cons

Pros:

  • National footprint with multiple office locations across the U.S.
  • Offers both fully managed and co-managed IT arrangements
  • Client portal visibility into tickets and response times

Cons:

  • Manufacturing is one of many industries served, not a primary focus
  • Support may be routed through multiple teams depending on issue type
  • No publicly stated contractual response time guarantees

3. Integris: A provider with a manufacturing practice

Integris has built a dedicated manufacturing practice focused on the specific IT challenges that come with running production environments. The company has achieved CMMC Level 2 certification, which positions it to help defense contractors meet upcoming DoD requirements.

The provider serves small and midsize manufacturers and offers flexible service options including co-managed support arrangements. Integris has expanded through acquisitions, bringing together expertise from multiple regional MSPs.

Integris features

  • Dedicated Manufacturing Practice: Team members with specific experience in production environments and ERP systems
  • CMMC Level 2 Certified: Direct experience with the certification process for defense contractors
  • Flexible Service Models: Options for fully managed, co-managed, or targeted assistance

Integris pros and cons

Pros:

  • Dedicated manufacturing vertical with industry-specific expertise
  • Presence in multiple states through regional office network
  • Rated on Clutch with positive client reviews

Cons:

  • Rapid expansion through acquisitions may affect service consistency
  • Manufacturing practice is newer compared to other service lines
  • Service delivery may vary by location

4. All Covered: Konica Minolta's managed IT division

All Covered operates as the managed IT services division of Konica Minolta. The company offers cybersecurity services, managed detection and response, and IT support across multiple industries including manufacturing.

With a national presence through Konica Minolta's dealer network, All Covered can offer on-site support in many U.S. markets. The company has been recognized on the ChannelE2E Top 100 Vertical Market MSPs list.

All Covered features

  • Managed Detection & Response: Threat identification and containment services
  • Security Awareness Training: Employee education programs to reduce human error
  • M365 Managed Services: Administration and security for Microsoft environments

All Covered pros and cons

Pros:

  • National coverage through Konica Minolta's established presence
  • U.S.-based help desk with 24/7 availability
  • Integration with print management for unified vendor relationships

Cons:

  • Parent company focus on document technology may influence IT service priorities
  • Manufacturing is one of many verticals served
  • Co-managed arrangements may be less flexible than dedicated IT service providers

5. Synoptek: A global provider with advisory services

Synoptek positions itself as a Managed Experience Provider (MxP), offering IT advisory, integration, and managed services. The company operates from its Irvine, California headquarters and serves clients globally.

The provider offers services across cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and digital transformation. Synoptek has worked with manufacturing clients and offers compliance consulting as part of its advisory practice.

Synoptek features

  • aiXops Platform: AI-activated managed services for operations monitoring
  • Advisory Services: Strategic IT consulting and roadmap development
  • Global Delivery: 24/7 support across multiple time zones

Synoptek pros and cons

Pros:

  • Broad service portfolio covering IT, cloud, and security
  • Advisory services for technology roadmapping
  • Experience working with larger enterprise clients

Cons:

  • Enterprise orientation may not align with midsize manufacturer needs
  • Headquarters in California with limited Midwest presence
  • Co-managed IT is not the primary service focus

6. LevelBlue: An MSSP for detection and response

LevelBlue launched in 2024 as a standalone managed security services provider, spinning off from AT&T Cybersecurity. The company focuses on managed detection and response, threat intelligence, and security operations.

LevelBlue has acquired Trustwave, creating one of the largest pure-play MSSPs in the industry. The company holds FedRAMP certification, which may benefit manufacturers working on government contracts.

LevelBlue features

  • Managed Detection & Response: 24/7 threat detection with investigation and response
  • SpiderLabs Intelligence: Threat research from a dedicated security team
  • FedRAMP Certification: Certified for federal government security requirements

LevelBlue pros and cons

Pros:

  • Focused exclusively on security operations rather than general IT
  • FedRAMP and StateRAMP certifications for regulated environments
  • 1,000+ security professionals globally

Cons:

  • Security-only focus means you'll need separate IT support arrangements
  • Enterprise pricing structures may not fit midsize manufacturer budgets
  • Recent formation and acquisitions mean service integration is ongoing

Comparison table: Co-managed IT providers for U.S. manufacturers

Provider 24/7 Human SOC Contractual Response SLA Manufacturing Practice
Securafy 10 minutes
Ntiva Not published
Integris Not published
All Covered Not published
Synoptek Not published
LevelBlue Not published

What should manufacturers look for in a co-managed IT provider?

Your manufacturing environment has unique requirements that general-purpose MSPs may not fully understand. Production systems need to run without interruption. Compliance deadlines don't wait. And your internal IT team needs support—not replacement.

Look for a provider who asks about your ERP systems, your OT environment, and your compliance obligations before pitching services. The right partner will want to understand how their security tools might affect machine connectivity and production workflows.

Securafy approaches co-managed IT with this manufacturing mindset. The company works alongside your internal team, filling gaps in 24/7 coverage, compliance documentation, and advanced threat monitoring while leaving day-to-day control where it belongs.

How does CMMC affect manufacturers choosing co-managed IT?

If you work with the Department of Defense—or supply companies that do—CMMC compliance is no longer optional. CMMC 2.0 Phase 2 begins in November 2026, requiring third-party certification for contractors handling controlled unclassified information (CUI).

This timeline is creating urgency across the defense industrial base. According to the Coalition for Government Procurement, prime contractors are already flowing CMMC requirements down to subcontractors.

Your co-managed IT provider should be able to help you achieve and maintain CMMC Level 2 certification. Securafy's Comply-CARE service tier includes continuous compliance monitoring and audit-ready evidence packages specifically designed for these requirements.

Why Securafy is the top co-managed IT choice for U.S. manufacturers

Manufacturing IT leaders need a partner who understands that downtime isn't just an inconvenience—it's lost production, missed shipments, and unhappy customers. Securafy has protected manufacturing operations since 1989, giving the company deep experience with the specific challenges your industry faces.

The combination of prevention-first security, 24/7 human-operated SOC monitoring, and contractual response guarantees gives you confidence that threats will be stopped before they affect your production floor. Securafy's 10-minute response guarantee for critical issues means your team isn't waiting hours for help when systems go down.

For manufacturers navigating CMMC, HIPAA, PCI, or NIST compliance requirements, Securafy delivers audit-ready documentation and continuous evidence collection. The Comply-CARE tier was built specifically for regulated organizations facing examiner visits and certification deadlines.

Ready to see how Securafy can strengthen your manufacturing IT operations? Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific compliance and security needs.

FAQs about co-managed IT for U.S. manufacturers

What is co-managed IT for manufacturers?

Co-managed IT is a partnership model where an external provider works alongside your internal IT team. Your staff handles day-to-day operations and specialized manufacturing systems while the provider fills gaps in 24/7 monitoring, compliance, and cybersecurity. Securafy's co-managed arrangements are built specifically for this collaborative approach.

How much does co-managed IT cost for manufacturers?

Co-managed IT pricing varies based on your environment size, compliance requirements, and support level needed. Securafy uses flat per-user monthly pricing with no hidden fees, making it easier to predict your IT budget. Most manufacturers find co-managed IT more economical than hiring additional staff for 24/7 coverage and specialized security roles.

Do manufacturers need CMMC compliance for co-managed IT?

Not all manufacturers require CMMC, but those in the defense supply chain do. CMMC 2.0 requirements are rolling out in phases through 2027. Securafy helps manufacturers achieve and maintain CMMC certification with continuous monitoring and audit-ready documentation through its Comply-CARE service tier.

Can co-managed IT support OT and production systems?

Yes, but not all providers have manufacturing experience. Production environments require careful coordination between IT security and operational technology. Securafy works with manufacturing IT teams to implement security controls that protect your network without disrupting machine connectivity or production workflows.

What response time should manufacturers expect from co-managed IT?

Response time varies widely between providers. Securafy offers a 10-minute contractual response guarantee for critical issues, backed by SLA commitments. Manufacturing IT leaders should ask potential providers for specific, written response time commitments before signing agreements.