June 09, 2025
If you're only speaking to your IT provider when it's time to renew your contract, you're missing the mark.
Technology is not 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, efficient, and competitive.
The problem is, 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 prepared to answer every quarter—no jargon, no vague statements, 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 software current?
- Are there any unpatched systems?
- Have we experienced any near misses or warning signs recently?
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 right backup strategy—off-site, cloud, or hybrid?
- Are we backing up the correct data?
- Is all backed-up data stored securely?
Many businesses believe they're backed up, until they find out they're not.
3. Are All Employees Following Security Best Practices?
It only takes one person clicking the wrong link to compromise your entire network. Ask:
- Have there been any unusual logins or risky activity?
- Do employees need another round of phishing training?
- Is multifactor authentication in use by all employees?
Bonus points if your IT provider brings this up before you do—that shows they're vigilant.
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 issues?
- Are we outgrowing our current hardware or software?
- Is there anything we can optimize to improve speed?
Even small improvements can have a big impact.
5. Are We Still Compliant?
Regulations evolve, and so do the rules for storing and protecting data. Ask:
- Are we meeting industry standards?
- Have any compliance requirements changed?
- Do we need to update policies, software, or training?
Noncompliance fines can be costly. Stay ahead to avoid penalties.
6. What Should We Be Budgeting For Next Quarter?
Good IT is about planning ahead. Ask:
- Are any software licenses expiring soon?
- Is any equipment nearing the end of its life?
- Are there upcoming projects we should prepare for?
This helps you avoid surprise costs and manage your budget effectively.
7. What IT or Cybersecurity Trends Are We Behind On That Could Make Us Slower Or More Vulnerable?
Technology and cyber threats evolve constantly. Ask your IT provider:
- 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 emerging 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 playing catch-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 offer to meet quarterly—you might not be getting the support you need.
Technology changes fast. Cyber threats move faster.
You need someone who's not just fixing problems as they happen but actively working to prevent them before they occur.
We offer FREE Consult 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 614-889-6555 to book your Consult today!
