June 09, 2025
If you only speak with your IT provider when renewing your contract, you're missing the mark.
Technology isn't a "set it and forget it" aspect of your business. 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 remain protected, productive, and competitive.
But here's the problem: Most business owners don't know what questions to ask.
So today, here's a cheat sheet. These are the questions your IT provider should be ready to answer every quarter—no jargon, no vague promises, just clear answers that keep your business running smoothly.
1. Are There Any Vulnerabilities We Need To Address Right Now?
This isn't just about ticking boxes. You need to know:
- Is our antivirus current?
- Are there any unpatched systems?
- Have we had any recent near misses or warning signs?
You're not being paranoid—you're being prepared.
2. What's The Status Of Our Backups? And Have You Tested Them Lately?
Backups are like seat belts: you don't think about them until you desperately need them. Ask:
- When was the last full restore test?
- Are we using the best backup strategy—off-site, cloud, or hybrid?
- Are we backing up everything we should?
- Is all backup data stored securely?
You'd be surprised how many businesses think they're backed up until disaster strikes.
3. Are All Employees Following Security Best Practices?
It only takes one person clicking the wrong link to compromise the whole network. Ask:
- Have there been unusual logins or risky behavior?
- Do we need more phishing training?
- Are employees using multifactor authentication?
Bonus points if your IT provider brings this up before you do—that means they're paying attention.
4. How Has Our Network Performance Been? Anything Slowing Us Down?
Slow systems mean slow teams and lost productivity (and money). Ask:
- Are there recurring performance issues?
- Are we outgrowing our hardware or software?
- Can anything be optimized to speed things up?
Even small improvements can have a big impact.
5. Are We Still Compliant?
Regulations evolve, and so do data storage and protection rules. Ask:
- Are we meeting industry standards?
- Have any requirements changed?
- Do we need to update policies, software, or training?
Noncompliance fines can be costly. Stay ahead of them.
6. What Should We Be Budgeting For Next Quarter?
Good IT is proactive. Ask:
- Are any software licenses about to expire?
- Is any equipment nearing end-of-life?
- Are there upcoming projects we should prepare for?
This helps avoid surprise costs and keeps planning on track.
7. What Trends In IT Or Cybersecurity Are We Behind On That Are Making Us Slower Or More Vulnerable?
Technology and cyber threats never stand still. Ask your IT provider:
- Are there new tools or best practices we aren't using yet?
- Are we lagging in any security protocols or performance standards?
- What are similar businesses doing that we're not?
- Are there emerging threats we should be cautious about?
Falling behind on trends doesn't just slow you down—it leaves you exposed. 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 offer quarterly meetings—you might not be getting the support you need.
Technology changes fast. Cyber threats move faster.
You need a partner who doesn't just react when things break but actively works to prevent problems before they happen.
We offer a 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 609-676-3597 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
