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. 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 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 straightforward 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 there been any close calls or warning signs lately?
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, hybrid?
- Are we backing up the right data?
- Is everything backed up and stored securely?
Many businesses believe they're backed up until they discover they're not.
3. Are All Employees Following Security Best Practices?
One wrong click from a team member can bring down the entire network. Ask:
- Have there been any unusual logins or risky behavior?
- 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 means they're paying attention.
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 issues?
- Are we outgrowing our hardware or software?
- Can anything be optimized to speed things up?
Small improvements can have a big impact.
5. Are We Still Compliant?
Regulations change, and so do the rules for data storage and protection. Ask:
- Are we meeting industry standards?
- Have any requirements changed?
- 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?
- 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 cybercriminals never stand still. Ask:
- Are there new tools or best practices we're not using yet?
- Are we behind in any security protocols or performance benchmarks?
- 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 chasing after problems.
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 moves fast. Cyberthreats move faster.
You need someone who isn't just fixing problems after they happen but actively preventing them before they occur.
We offer a FREE 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 832-536-9012 to book your Discovery Call today!
