June 09, 2025
If you're only speaking with 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 about. It constantly changes, and so do the threats that come with it. That's why quarterly IT check-ins are essential if you want your business to remain secure, efficient, and competitive.
The problem is, most business owners don't know what questions to ask.
So today, here's a simple guide. These are the questions your IT provider should be prepared 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 goes beyond ticking boxes. You need to know:
- Is our antivirus software current?
- Are there any systems that haven't been patched?
- Have we had any close calls or warning signs lately?
You're not being paranoid—you're being proactive.
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 desperately need them. Ask:
- When was the last time a full restore was tested?
- Are we using the best backup method? Off-site, cloud, or hybrid?
- Are we backing up all the right data?
- Is everything 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 the whole network. Ask:
- Have there been any unusual logins or risky behaviors?
- Do we need another round of phishing training?
- Are employees using multifactor authentication?
If your IT provider brings this up before you do, 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. 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 change, and so do the requirements for data storage and protection. Ask:
- Are we meeting industry standards?
- Have any rules or 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 about being proactive. Ask:
- Are any software licenses about to expire?
- Is any equipment nearing the end of its useful life?
- Are there any upcoming projects we need to prepare for?
This helps you avoid surprise costs 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 evolve quickly. 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 other businesses our size doing that we aren't?
- Are there any new threats we should be aware of?
Falling behind on trends doesn't just slow you down; it leaves you open to risk. A good 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 suggest quarterly meetings—you might not be getting the support you need.
Technology moves fast. Cyber threats move faster.
You need someone who isn't just fixing problems after they happen but is actively working to stop them before they start.
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 678-940-8992 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
