June 09, 2025
If you're only talking to your IT provider when you renew your contract, you're missing the mark.
Technology is not something you set up once 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 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 close calls 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 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 right data?
- Is everything backed up and stored securely?
Many businesses assume they're backed up until they find out they're not.
3. Are All Employees Following Security Best Practices?
One wrong click can compromise your entire network. Ask:
- Have there been any unusual logins or risky behaviors?
- Do we need more phishing training?
- Are employees using multifactor authentication?
If your IT provider brings this up before you ask, that's a good sign they're on top of things.
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 problems?
- 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 protection rules. Ask:
- Are we meeting industry standards?
- Have any requirements changed recently?
- Do we need to update policies, software, or training?
Noncompliance fines are costly. Stay ahead of them.
6. What Should We Be Budgeting For Next Quarter?
Good IT is proactive. Ask:
- Are any software licenses expiring soon?
- Is any equipment nearing end-of-life?
- Are there upcoming projects we should plan for?
This helps you avoid surprise expenses and plan effectively.
7. What Trends In IT Or Cybersecurity Are We Behind On That Are Making Us Slower Or More Vulnerable?
Technology and cyber threats keep evolving. Ask:
- Are there new tools or best practices we're not using?
- Are we behind 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, doesn't even suggest quarterly meetings—you might not be getting the support you need.
Technology changes fast. Cyber threats move faster.
You need someone who doesn't just react when something breaks 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 916-626-4000 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
