Choosing an IT or cybersecurity partner isn’t just about finding someone who can fix computers or set up software—it’s about choosing a strategic partner who will protect your business, support your growth, and reduce risk.
Whether you’re evaluating a managed services provider (MSP), a cybersecurity consultant, or a co-managed IT partner, asking the right questions early on can help you avoid headaches later.
Here are 5 essential questions to ask before signing on with any IT or cybersecurity partner:
1. How Fast Is Your Response Time—And Can You Prove It?
Many IT providers claim “fast response times,” but what does that really mean? Some consider “response” the creation of a ticket whereas others define it as actually connecting to a user’s machine and beginning to work through resolution of an issue.
A truly proactive provider should be able to quantify their responsiveness, and that responsiveness should be based on when support begins—not just when a ticket is created.
Ask for:
- Average first-response time – ThrottleNet averages two (2) minutes when using our Service Chat icon
- First-call resolution rates – ThrottleNet averages an 87% first call resolution rate
- Help desk hours and methods of contact
Why it matters:
When systems go down, time is money. You want a partner who’s built for speed, not just availability.
2. What Cybersecurity Standards or Frameworks Do You Follow?
Modern businesses need more than just antivirus and firewalls. Your IT or cybersecurity partner should follow recognized cybersecurity frameworks such as:
NIST Cybersecurity Framework
A set of best practices and guidelines designed to help organizations:
- Identify cybersecurity risks
- Protect systems and data
- Detect cybersecurity events
- Respond to incidents
- Recover from breaches or disruptions
CIS Controls
A prioritized list of 18 controls to:
- Prevent pervasive cyberattacks
- Simplify compliance
- Tailor protections based on organization size and risk (IG1–IG3)
ISO 27001
An international standard defining best practices for managing sensitive information through an ISMS (Information Security Management System) including:
- Risk assessments
- Security policies and procedures
- Ongoing monitoring and improvement
Bonus: Ask if they provide cyber insurance readiness, phishing simulations, or incident response planning.
Why it matters:
If your partner doesn’t have a structured cybersecurity approach, your business is at risk—especially if you’re in a regulated industry like healthcare, legal, or finance.
3. Does Your IT or Cybersecurity Partner Offer vCIO or Strategic IT Planning Services?
A great partner doesn’t just fix problems—they help you plan ahead. A vCIO (Virtual Chief Information Officer) can:
- Create IT budgets and roadmaps
- Align tech with business goals
- Prepare for compliance and audits
- Help with vendor negotiations and cloud strategy
Why it matters:
Your IT investments should drive business value—not just keep the lights on. Strategic planning separates the break/fix providers from true partners.
4. What Is (And Isn’t) Included in Your Agreement?
Clarity is everything. Ask providers to break down exactly what’s included in your monthly rate.
Important considerations:
- Is project labor included or billed separately?
- Are after-hours support and emergency response covered?
- Do they include cybersecurity tools like MDR, MFA, and monitoring—or are those add-ons?
Why it matters:
Transparent pricing helps you avoid scope creep, surprise fees, and mismatched expectations.
5. How Do You Help Us Stay Ahead of Threats and Technology Changes?
Technology is constantly evolving—and so are cyber threats. Your IT or cybersecurity partner should be proactive, not reactive.
Ask about:
- Regular risk assessments or technology reviews
- Employee security awareness training
- Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs)
Why it matters:
You don’t want a vendor that only shows up when something breaks. You want a partner who’s thinking about what’s next—and helping you stay ahead of it.
Final Thought: Choose a Partner, Not Just a Provider
The right IT or cybersecurity partner should feel like an extension of your business—not just an outside vendor.
They should understand your goals, communicate clearly, act quickly, and proactively work to protect and grow your organization.
Before you sign that contract, take time to ask these questions—and listen carefully to how they’re answered. Your long-term productivity, security, and peace of mind depend on it.
Chris Montgomery
ThrottleNet Sales Director
[email protected]
