June 09, 2025
If you're only communicating with your IT provider when it's time to renew your contract, you're missing the point.
Technology is not something you can simply "set and forget" in your business. It's always changing, and so are the risks associated with it. That's why quarterly IT check-ins are essential if you want to keep your business secure, efficient, and competitive.
The problem is, most business owners don't know what questions to ask.
So here's a helpful guide. These are the questions your IT provider should be prepared to answer every quarter—no jargon, no vague promises, just clear answers 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 understand:
- Is our antivirus software current?
- Are there any systems that haven't been patched?
- Have there been any recent warning signs or close calls?
This isn't paranoia—it's preparation.
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 best backup approach? Off-site, cloud, or hybrid?
- Are we backing up 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 entire network. Ask:
- Have there been any unusual logins or risky activities?
- Do we need additional phishing awareness training?
- Are employees using multifactor authentication?
If your IT provider brings this up without being asked, that's a good sign they're vigilant.
4. How Has Our Network Performance Been? Anything Slowing Us Down?
Slow systems mean slow teams and lost productivity (and revenue). Ask:
- Are there recurring performance issues?
- Are our hardware or software becoming outdated?
- Can anything be optimized to improve speed?
Even small improvements can have a big impact.
5. Are We Still Compliant?
Regulations evolve, and so do requirements for data storage and protection. Ask:
- Are we meeting current industry standards?
- Have any compliance requirements changed?
- Do we need to update policies, software, or training?
Noncompliance fines can be costly. Staying ahead is crucial.
6. What Should We Be Budgeting For Next Quarter?
Good IT management is proactive. Ask:
- Are any software licenses about to expire?
- Is any equipment nearing the end of its useful life?
- Are there upcoming projects we should plan for?
This helps you avoid surprise costs and budget effectively.
7. What Trends In IT Or Cybersecurity Are We Behind On That Are Making Us Slower Or More Vulnerable?
Technology and cyber threats don't stand still. Ask:
- 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 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 suggest quarterly meetings—you might not be getting the support you need.
Technology evolves fast. Cyber threats evolve faster.
You need a partner who doesn't just react when things break but works proactively to prevent problems before they happen.
We offer 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 252-240-3399 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
