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Excite IT vs Rackspace Technology: Which MSP is Better? | The MSP Playbook

Article 2026-07-27

Excite IT vs Rackspace Technology

A detailed comparison of two major Australian Managed Service Providers.

Feature Excite IT Rackspace Technology
Overall Score3.73.0
TypeBoutique CorporateUS Cloud MSP
Employees30-6014000
Founded20081999
HeadquartersSydney, NSWSan Antonio, Texas, USA
RevenuePrivate$3.0B
Salary Range$70,000 - $145,000$50,000 - $140,000
SpecialtiesManaged Services, Cloud, Security, Microsoft 365Managed Cloud, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, Kubernetes, DevOps
CertificationsMicrosoft Partner, AWS Partner, Fortinet PartnerAWS Premier Partner, Microsoft Partner, Google Cloud Partner, ISO 27001
Green FlagsGood work-life balance
Technology focus
Pioneer of 'Fanatical Support' β€” differentiated managed cloud support model
Strong multi-cloud expertise across AWS, Azure, GCP
Good for early-career cloud engineers seeking certification support
Private equity backing provides capital for growth
Red FlagsSmall scale
Below-market salaries
Financial distress β€” loss of founder leadership, multiple restructurings
Below-market compensation across most roles
PE ownership creates margin pressure and cost-cutting mentality
Massive layoff cycles (2022: 10%, 2023: 15%, 2024: ongoing)
Awful Glassdoor rating (3.0) β€” among worst of major MSPs
Business model disruption from hyperscalers going direct to customers
Worker ProsTechnology focus
Work-life balance
Strong multi-cloud managed services expertise
Fanatical Support training instills good customer service habits
Cloud certification support and exam coverage
Good for early-career cloud engineers building a resume
Worker ConsSmall scale
Below-market pay
Financial instability β€” multiple layoff rounds and loss of founder CEO
Below-market salaries across all roles
PE ownership drives constant cost-cutting and margin pressure
Hyperscalers (AWS, Azure) going direct β€” squeezing Rackspace's business model

Which MSP Should You Choose?

Both Boutique Corporate and US Cloud MSP have strengths and weaknesses. Your choice depends on your priorities β€” whether that's career growth, salary, work-life balance, or technical exposure.

Use the side-by-side comparison tool for a deeper look, or check out individual profiles for detailed employee reviews.