June 09, 2025
If you only talk to your IT provider when it's time to renew your contract, you're missing the point.
Technology isn't something you set up once and forget about. It's always changing, and so are the risks 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 simple guide. These are the questions your IT provider should be ready to answer every quarter—no technical jargon, no vague answers, just clear information to keep your business running smoothly.
1. Are There Any Vulnerabilities We Need To Address Right Now?
This isn't just a routine check. You need to know:
- Is our antivirus software current?
- Are there any systems that haven't been patched?
- Have there been any close calls or warning signs recently?
You're not being paranoid; you're being prepared.
2. What's The Status Of Our Backups? 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 full restore test?
- Are we using the right backup approach—off-site, cloud, or hybrid?
- Are we backing up the correct data?
- Is all backup data stored securely?
Many businesses assume they're backed up until disaster strikes.
3. Are All Employees Following Security Best Practices?
One wrong click can compromise the entire network. Ask:
- Have there been unusual login attempts or risky behavior?
- Do we need another round of phishing awareness training?
- Are employees using multi-factor authentication?
If your IT provider brings this up without prompting, that's a good sign they're vigilant.
4. How Has Our Network Performance Been? Anything Slowing Us Down?
Slow systems mean slow teams and lost productivity. Ask:
- Are there recurring performance problems?
- Are our hardware or software becoming outdated?
- Can anything be optimized to improve speed?
Even small improvements can have a big impact.
5. Are We Still Compliant With Relevant Regulations?
Rules change, and so do data protection requirements. Ask:
- Are we meeting current industry standards?
- Have any compliance requirements changed?
- Do we need to update policies, software, or training?
Noncompliance fines can be costly. Staying ahead is crucial.
6. What Should We Be Budgeting For Next Quarter?
Good IT planning is proactive. Ask:
- Are any software licenses expiring soon?
- Is any equipment nearing the end of its useful life?
- Are there upcoming projects we should prepare for?
This helps avoid unexpected costs and keeps your budget on track.
7. What IT or Cybersecurity Trends Are We Behind On That Could Make Us Vulnerable or Slow?
Technology and cyber threats evolve constantly. Ask:
- Are there new tools or best 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 new threats we should be aware of?
Falling behind doesn't just slow you down, it puts you at risk. A great IT partner keeps you ahead, not catching up.
You Aren't Having These Conversations? That's a Red Flag
If your IT provider can't give clear answers to these questions—or worse, if they don't suggest quarterly meetings—you might not be getting the support your business needs.
Technology moves fast. Cyber threats move faster.
You need someone who doesn't just fix problems after they happen but works actively 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 866-523-2985 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
