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 about. 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 remain secure, efficient, and competitive.
The problem is, most business owners don't know what questions to ask.
So, here's a quick guide. These are the questions your IT provider should be ready to answer every quarter—no jargon, no vague answers, just clear information that keeps your business running smoothly.
1. Are There Any Vulnerabilities We Need To Address Right Now?
This isn't just a formality. You need to know:
- Is our antivirus current?
- Are any systems unpatched?
- Have there been any close calls or warning signs recently?
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 method? Off-site? Cloud? Hybrid?
- Are we backing up the right data?
- Is everything backed up and stored securely?
Many businesses assume they're backed up until they find out they're not.
3. Are All Employees Following Security Best Practices?
One wrong click can bring down the entire network. Ask:
- Have there been any unusual logins or risky actions?
- Do employees need more phishing training?
- Is multifactor authentication in use? If your IT provider raises these issues before you ask, that's a good sign they're paying attention.
4. How Has Our Network Performance Been? Anything Slowing Us Down?
Slow systems mean slow teams and lost money. Ask:
- Are there recurring performance problems?
- Are we outgrowing our hardware or software?
- Can anything be optimized to improve speed?
Even small changes can make a big difference.
5. Are We Still Compliant With [HIPAA, PCI-DSS, GDPR, etc.]?
Rules change, and so do data protection requirements. Ask:
- Are we meeting industry standards?
- Have any compliance requirements changed?
- Do policies, software, or training need updates?
Noncompliance fines can be costly. Stay ahead.
6. What Should We Be Budgeting For Next Quarter?
Good IT is proactive. Ask:
- Are any software licenses expiring?
- Is any equipment nearing the end of its lifespan?
- Are there upcoming projects we should plan 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 cyberthreats keep evolving. Ask:
- Are there new tools or best practices we haven't adopted?
- Are we falling behind in security protocols or performance standards?
- What are comparable 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 your business needs.
Technology moves fast. Cyberthreats move faster.
You need someone who's not just reacting when
something breaks but actively working to prevent the break in the first place.
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 816-233-3777 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
