June 09, 2025
If you only talk to your IT provider when it's time to renew your contract, you're missing the mark.
Technology isn't something you set up once and forget. 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 cheat sheet. These are the questions your IT provider should be ready to answer every quarter—no 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 about ticking boxes. You need to know:
- Is our antivirus software current?
- Are there any systems that haven't been patched?
- Have there been 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 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 method—off-site, cloud, or hybrid?
- Are we backing up the correct data?
- Is everything backed up and 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 entire network. Ask:
- Have there been any unusual logins or risky actions?
- Do we need another round of phishing training?
- Are employees using multifactor authentication?
Bonus points if your IT provider brings this up before you do. That shows they're paying attention.
4. How Has Our Network Performance Been? Anything Slowing Us Down?
Slow systems mean slow teams, which means lost productivity and money. Ask:
- Are there recurring performance problems?
- Are we outgrowing our current 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 change, and so do the rules about data storage and protection. Ask:
- Are we meeting industry standards?
- Have any compliance requirements changed?
- Do we need to update policies, software, or training?
Fines for noncompliance can be costly. Staying ahead is crucial.
6. What Should We Be Budgeting For Next Quarter?
Good IT is proactive. Ask:
- Are any software licenses expiring soon?
- Is any equipment nearing the end of its lifecycle?
- Are there any upcoming projects we should plan for?
This helps you avoid surprise costs and budget wisely.
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:
- Are there new tools or best practices we haven't adopted yet?
- Are we lagging in any security measures or performance standards?
- What are other businesses our size doing that we're not?
- Are there new threats we should be aware of?
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 even offer to meet quarterly—you may 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 proactively to prevent them.
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 336-904-2445 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
