June 09, 2025
If you're only speaking with your IT provider when it's time to renew your contract, you're missing the mark.
Technology is not something you can just set up and forget. It's always changing, and so are the threats that come with it. That's why quarterly IT check-ins are essential if you want your business to stay secure, efficient, and competitive.
The problem is, most business owners don't know what questions to ask.
So here's a guide. These are the questions your IT provider should be prepared to answer every quarter—no jargon, no vague answers, just clear information that keeps your business running smoothly.
1. Are There Any Vulnerabilities We Need To Address Right Now?
This isn't about ticking boxes. You need to find out:
- Is our antivirus software current?
- Are there any systems that haven't been patched?
- Have there been any close calls or warning signs lately?
You're not being paranoid; you're being proactive.
2. What's The Status Of Our Backups? And Have You Tested Them Recently?
Backups are like seat belts—you don't think about them until you really need them. Ask:
- When was the last time a full restore was tested?
- Are we using the best backup approach? Off-site, cloud, or hybrid?
- Are we backing up the right data?
- Is everything backed up and stored securely?
Many businesses believe they're backed up until they find out they're not.
3. Are All Employees Following Security Best Practices?
One click from a team member can compromise the entire network. Ask:
- Have there been any unusual logins or suspicious activity?
- Do we need more phishing awareness training?
- Is multifactor authentication being used by everyone?
Bonus points if your IT provider brings this up without you asking. That shows they're paying attention.
4. How Has Our Network Performance Been? Is Anything Slowing Us Down?
Slow systems mean slow teams and lost productivity. Ask:
- Are there recurring performance problems?
- Are we outgrowing our current hardware or software?
- Can anything be optimized to improve speed?
Even small improvements can make a big difference.
5. Are We Still Compliant?
Rules and regulations change constantly. Ask:
- Are we meeting all industry standards?
- Have any compliance requirements changed?
- Do we need to update policies, software, or training?
Noncompliance fines are costly. Staying ahead is crucial.
6. What Should We Be Budgeting For Next Quarter?
Good IT is about planning ahead. Ask:
- Are any software licenses about to expire?
- Is any equipment nearing the end of its useful life?
- Are there upcoming projects we should prepare for?
This helps you avoid surprise costs and stay organized.
7. What Trends In IT Or Cybersecurity Are We Behind On That Are Making Us Slower Or More Vulnerable?
Technology and cyber threats evolve constantly. Ask your IT provider:
- Are there new tools or practices we haven't adopted yet?
- Are we falling behind in security protocols or performance standards?
- What are similar businesses doing that we're not?
- Are there any emerging threats we should watch out for?
Falling behind on trends doesn't just slow you down; it exposes you to risk. A great IT partner keeps you ahead, not catching up.
You Aren't Having These Conversations? Red Flag
If your IT provider can't give clear answers to these questions—or worse, if they don't even suggest quarterly meetings—you might not be getting the support your business needs.
Technology changes fast. Cyber threats change faster.
You need someone who doesn't just fix problems after they happen but works proactively to prevent them.
We offer FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call to help business
owners like you get a clear view of their tech setup - what's working, what's
not and how to fix it before it turns into a problem.
Click here or give us a call at 877-622-7911 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
