How to Choose the Right Cyber Security Company – 7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Imagine running a successful business only to walk in one morning and find your systems locked, your data encrypted, and a ransom note demanding lakhs. Or discovering that customer information has been stolen, leading to lawsuits, fines, and long-term damage to your reputation. It’s increasingly frighteningly common. Cyber attacks no longer target only large corporations. Whether you’re a startup in Jaipur, an e-commerce brand, or an established enterprise, you’re at risk. Ransomware, phishing, and data breaches happen daily, and the consequences can be severe.

That’s why choosing the right cybersecurity company is no longer optional. The challenge is that not all providers offer the same level of expertise; some rely on generic solutions, while others lack comprehensive protection. So how do you make the right choice? This guide covers the seven critical questions you must ask before hiring a cybersecurity company in Jaipur (or anywhere else) to ensure you find real experts who can genuinely protect your business.

Why Choosing the Right Cyber Security Partner Matters

Let’s be real about the threat landscape we’re dealing with today.

• Cyber threats are exploding: Ransomware attacks have increased by over 150% in the past two years. Phishing attempts are getting so sophisticated that even tech-savvy employees fall for them. Data breaches are costing companies millions, not just in ransom payments, but in lost business, legal fees, and damaged reputation.
• Every business is a target: Think hackers only go after banks and big corporations? Think again. Small and medium businesses are actually MORE vulnerable because they often lack proper security measures. Attackers know this and specifically target smaller businesses as easy prey.
• The cost of getting it wrong: A single successful cyber attack can cost your business lakhs or even crores in direct losses. But the indirect costs lost customers, damaged reputation, and regulatory penalties, often exceed the immediate financial impact. Some businesses never recover.
• Why expertise matters: Cybersecurity isn’t something you can DIY or handle with basic antivirus software anymore. The threat landscape is complex, constantly evolving, and requires specialised knowledge to navigate safely. You need real experts, not just IT generalists.

The bottom line? Choosing the right cybersecurity partner is one of the most important business decisions you’ll make. Get it right, and you can focus on growing your business with confidence. Get it wrong, and you’re gambling with your company’s future.

What Does a Cyber Security Company Actually Do?

Before we dive into the questions you should ask, let’s clarify what a comprehensive cybersecurity company actually provides. Understanding their role helps you evaluate whether they’re offering genuine protection or just selling you products.

• Security Audits & Vulnerability Assessments: They examine your entire IT infrastructure to identify weaknesses before hackers do. Think of it as a security check-up for your digital assets; they find the holes in your fence before intruders do.
• Network & Endpoint Protection: Every device connected to your network (computers, phones, servers) is a potential entry point for attacks. Proper endpoint protection secures these access points with advanced monitoring and threat prevention.
• Data Encryption & Backup Strategies: Your business data needs to be encrypted (made unreadable to unauthorised users) both when stored and when transmitted. Robust backup strategies ensure you can recover even if attacked.
• 24/7 Threat Monitoring: Cyber attacks don’t happen only during business hours. Professional security operations centres (SOC) monitor your systems around the clock, detecting and responding to threats in real-time.
• Incident Response & Disaster Recovery: When (not if) an attack happens, how quickly and effectively your security partner responds determines whether it’s a minor incident or a business-ending disaster. They should have clear protocols for containment, elimination, and recovery.
• Cybersecurity Training for Employees: Your employees are often your biggest security vulnerability (unintentionally!). Good security companies provide training to help your team recognise phishing attempts, use secure passwords, and follow security best practices.

Now that you understand what comprehensive cybersecurity looks like, let’s get to the questions you need to ask any potential security partner.

1. What Is Your Experience & Expertise in Cyber Security?

This is your first and most fundamental question. Here’s why experience matters and what to look for:

Why Industry Experience Is Critical

Cybersecurity isn’t something you learn overnight. The best cybersecurity company professionals have years of real-world experience dealing with actual threats, not just theoretical knowledge from textbooks. They’ve seen attacks evolve, they’ve responded to incidents, and they’ve learned from both successes and failures.

Ask About Similar Clients

Don’t just ask how long they’ve been in business, ask about clients similar to you:

• “Have you worked with businesses in my industry?” (Finance, healthcare, e-commerce, education, retail, etc.)
• “What size companies do you typically serve?” (Startups vs established enterprises have different needs)
• “Can you share examples of challenges you’ve solved for businesses like mine?”

Industry-specific experience matters because different sectors face different threats and compliance requirements. A cybersecurity company in Jaipur that’s helped local e-commerce businesses, for example, understands the specific challenges of Indian online retail.

Certifications That Actually Matter

Ask about professional certifications. The real ones include:

• CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker): Shows they understand how hackers think 
• CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional): Industry gold standard 
• CISM (Certified Information Security Manager): Demonstrates management-level expertise 
• ISO 27001 Compliance: International standard for information security management

Red Flags to Watch For:

 Vague answers about experience, no relevant certifications, can’t provide specific examples of problems they’ve solved, Team members without proper credentials

3Handshake, for instance, brings years of experience serving businesses across Jaipur with a competent team of network and security experts, technical support professionals, and certified engineers who provide specialised security solutions.

2. What Cyber Security Services Do You Offer?

Not all cybersecurity providers offer the same services. Some specialise in specific areas, while others provide comprehensive security solutions. You need to understand exactly what they bring to the table.

Full-Stack vs Specialised Firms

Full-stack firms like 3Handshake offer end-to-end security solutions from initial assessment to ongoing monitoring to incident response. This comprehensive approach means one partner handles all your security needs.

Specialised firms focus on specific areas like penetration testing or compliance. They’re experts in their niche, but you might need multiple vendors for complete protection.

Essential Services Checklist

Ask if they provide:

• Penetration Testing: Authorised simulated attacks to find vulnerabilities before real hackers do
• SOC Monitoring: Security Operations Centre with 24/7 threat monitoring and response
• Firewall & Network Protection: Advanced firewall/UTM systems that act as your first line of defence
• Endpoint Security: Protection for every device that connects to your network
• Cloud Security: As businesses move to cloud services, securing cloud infrastructure becomes critical
• DDoS Protection: Defence against distributed denial-of-service attacks that can take your business offline
• Email Security: Protection against phishing and business email compromise
• Data Backup & Recovery: Reliable backup solutions with encryption and cloud storage options
• Compliance Support: Help meet industry regulations (HIPAA for healthcare, GDPR for European customers, PCI DSS for payment processing)

Customisation Is Key

One-size-fits-all security doesn’t work. Ask: “How do you customise security packages for businesses of my size and industry?”

A good cybersecurity partner tailors their approach based on:

• Your specific risk profile
• Your budget constraints
• Your industry requirements
• Your existing security infrastructure
• Your growth plans

3Handshake offers customizable security packages covering everything from cybersecurity (firewalls, endpoint security, DDoS protection) to data security (encryption, data leakage prevention, VPN solutions) to network management (active-passive network design, wireless solutions, CCTV surveillance).

3. How Do You Detect, Prevent & Respond to Cyber Attacks?

This question reveals whether they’re proactive defenders or just reactive fixers. You want partners who prevent attacks, not just clean up afterwards.

Their Threat Detection Arsenal

Ask what tools and technologies they use:

SIEM (Security Information and Event Management): Collects and analyses security data from across your network to identify potential threats

EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response): Monitors endpoint devices for suspicious behaviour

IAM (Identity and Access Management): Controls who has access to what data and systems

Threat Intelligence Platforms: Use global threat databases to identify emerging attack patterns

AI and Machine Learning: Modern tools that can detect anomalies and zero-day threats

Incident Response: Speed Matters

When an attack happens, every minute counts. Ask:

• “What’s your average response time to security incidents?”
• “Do you have a documented incident response plan?”
• “Who responds,  and are they available 24/7?”
• “What are the specific steps you take when an attack is detected?”

A proper incident response should include:

1. Detection: Identifying the threat immediately
2. Containment: Isolating affected systems to prevent spread
3. Elimination: Removing the threat completely
4. Recovery: Restoring systems and data safely
5. Post-Incident Analysis: Understanding what happened and preventing recurrence

Real-World Examples

Don’t just take their word for it, ask for examples:

“Can you share a case where you successfully prevented or mitigated a cyber attack?”

Listen for specific details about the threat, their response, and the outcome. Vague answers suggest a lack of real experience.

Post-Attack Recovery

Stopping an attack is only half the battle. Ask:

• “How do you help businesses recover after an attack?”
• “Do you provide data recovery services?”
• “What’s your process for getting systems back online safely?”
• “How do you prevent the same attack from happening again?”

4. How Do You Ensure Data Privacy & Regulatory Compliance?

If your business handles customer data, financial information, or sensitive records, compliance isn’t optional; it’s legally required. And violations carry serious penalties.

Industry-Specific Compliance Expertise

Different industries have different regulations. Ask if they have experience with standards relevant to your business:

Healthcare: HIPAA compliance for patient data protection E-commerce/Retail: PCI DSS compliance for payment card data International Business: GDPR for European customers’ data Financial Services: RBI guidelines and banking security standards General Business: IT Act compliance and data protection laws

Data Handling Policies

Your security partner will have access to sensitive business information. Ask:

• “What are your data handling policies?”
• “Who has access to our data?”
• “How do you ensure confidentiality?”
• “What happens to our data if we end the contract?”

Secure Access Protocols

Understanding how they protect access to your systems:

• Multi-factor authentication requirements
• Role-based access controls
• VPN solutions for remote access
• Regular access audits and reviews

Documentation & Audit Support

Compliance requires documentation. Ask:

• “Do you provide compliance documentation?”
• “Will you help us prepare for security audits?”
• “Do you maintain detailed logs and reports?”
• “Can you provide evidence of compliance when needed?”

3Handshake provides comprehensive data security services, including data leakage prevention, encryption, email security, access control, and VPN solutions, all essential for maintaining compliance and protecting sensitive information.

5. What Technologies, Tools & Security Frameworks Do You Use?

The tools and frameworks a cybersecurity company uses reveal a lot about their capabilities and whether they’re keeping pace with evolving threats.

Modern, AI-Driven Solutions

Cybersecurity isn’t about installing antivirus software anymore. Ask about:

AI and Machine Learning: Can their systems learn from patterns and detect previously unknown threats?

Cloud-Compatible Tools: As businesses move to cloud platforms, security tools must work seamlessly with AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, etc.

Automated Response Capabilities: Can their systems automatically contain threats without waiting for human intervention?

Key Technologies to Ask About

Zero-Trust Architecture: Modern security philosophy: “Never trust, always verify.” Every access request is authenticated, authorised, and encrypted, even from inside your network.

Real-Time Monitoring Tools: 24/7 surveillance of your network traffic, user behaviour, and system activities with instant alerts for suspicious activity.

Encryption Standards: What encryption methods do they use? Look for:

• AES-256 encryption for data at rest
• TLS 1.3 for data in transit
• End-to-end encryption for sensitive communications

Backup & Disaster Recovery Systems: Ask about:

• Backup frequency (daily? continuous?)
• Backup locations (on-site and cloud)
• Recovery time objectives (how quickly can they restore systems?)
• Recovery point objectives (how much data loss is acceptable?)

3Handshake utilises advanced technologies, including firewall/UTM systems, endpoint security solutions, DDoS protection, cloud managed services, and sophisticated monitoring systems to provide comprehensive protection.

Security Frameworks

Ask which recognised frameworks they follow:

• NIST Cybersecurity Framework: Industry standard for managing cybersecurity risk 
• ISO 27001: International information security management standard 
• CIS Controls: Critical security controls for effective cyber defence

Following established frameworks ensures their approach is proven and comprehensive, not just cobbled together.

6. What Are Your Pricing, Packages & SLAs?

Money matters, but cheap cybersecurity can be the most expensive mistake you make. Here’s how to evaluate pricing and agreements.

Transparent Pricing Models

Ask for clear, itemised pricing. Red flags include:  “We’ll figure out pricing later”  Prices that seem too good to be true  Refusal to provide written quotes

Common Pricing Structures:

Managed Security Services: Monthly fee for ongoing monitoring and management. Project-Based: One-time fee for specific services (penetration testing, security audit). Hybrid Model: Combination of monthly retainer plus additional services as needed. Per-Device Pricing: Cost based on the number of protected endpoints

Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

SLAs define what you’re actually paying for. Insist on written SLAs covering:

Response Times:

• How quickly do they respond to critical threats? (Should be minutes, not hours)
• What about non-critical issues?
• Is 24/7 support truly 24/7 or just during business hours?

Uptime Guarantees:

• What system availability do they guarantee?
• What happens if they fail to meet uptime commitments?

Monitoring Hours:

• Continuous 24/7/365 monitoring?
• Or limited to business hours?

Performance Metrics:

• What metrics do they track and report?
• How often do you receive reports?

Hidden Costs to Uncover

Ask explicitly about:

• Set up and onboarding fees
• Training costs for your team
• Hardware or software licensing fees
• Costs for incident response beyond normal monitoring
• Fees for additional users or devices
• Contract termination costs

Value vs. Cost

The cheapest option is rarely the best. Ask yourself:

• What’s the cost of a data breach to my business?
• What’s my time worth if I’m dealing with security issues?
• What’s the value of sleeping peacefully knowing experts are protecting my business?

Often, paying more for comprehensive protection costs less than dealing with even one successful attack.

7. Can You Provide Case Studies, Client Reviews or References?

Talk is cheap. Real proof of capability comes from demonstrated results and satisfied clients.

Why Social Proof Matters

Any cybersecurity company can claim they’re great. The good ones can prove it with:

• Documented case studies of problems solved
• Client testimonials from real businesses
• References you can actually contact
• Track record of client retention

How to Analyse Case Studies

When reviewing case studies, look for:

Specific Details: Vague case studies like “helped a client improve security” mean nothing. Look for specifics:

• What was the actual problem?
• What solution did they implement?
• What were the measurable results?

Relevant Examples: Case studies from businesses similar to yours (size, industry, challenges) are most valuable.

Problem-Solving Approach: Do the case studies show creative problem-solving or just standard cookie-cutter solutions?

Verifying Track Record with Local Businesses

For a cybersecurity company in Jaipur, ask:

• “Can you provide references from Jaipur-based businesses?”
• “What local companies have you worked with?”
• “Can I speak with a current client about their experience?”

Local references are gold because:

• You can verify them more easily
• They understand the local business context
• You might even know them personally
• They can share candid feedback

Long-Term Client Retention

High client retention rates signal satisfaction and effectiveness. Ask:

• “What’s your average client retention period?”
• “How many clients have been with you for 3+ years?”
• “What percentage of clients renew contracts?”

If clients keep coming back, it’s a strong indicator of genuine value delivery.

3Handshake has served numerous clients across Jaipur and internationally, building long-term relationships based on reliable, professional security solutions and a consistent focus on delivering client ROI.

Red Flags:

 Refusal to provide references, only generic testimonials with no specifics, can’t demonstrate long-term client relationships, Defensive when asked for proof of results

Additional Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Cyber Security Company

Beyond the seven core questions, consider these important factors:

Local Presence Advantage

Hiring a cybersecurity company in Jaipur when your business is Jaipur-based offers real benefits:

• Face-to-Face Meetings: Easier to build relationships and communicate complex needs 
• On-Site Support: Quick physical response when needed 
• Local Business Understanding: They understand regional challenges and opportunities 
• Time Zone Alignment: No delays waiting for responses from different time zones 
• Community Reputation: Easier to verify their standing in the local business community

Team Size & Availability

Ask about their team:

• How many security professionals do they employ?
• What’s the team’s expertise distribution?
• Will you have a dedicated account manager?
• Who actually responds to incidents, senior experts or junior staff?

Post-Project Support & Ongoing Monitoring

Security isn’t a one-time project. Ask:

• What ongoing support is included?
• How do they stay updated on emerging threats?
• What’s their process for regular security reviews?
• Do they proactively suggest improvements?

Customisation Based on Business Size

Startups have different needs than enterprises. Ask:

• “How do you scale services for businesses of different sizes?”
• “Can we start with basic protection and add services as we grow?”
• “Do you have packages specifically for [startups/SMBs/enterprises]?”

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Cyber Security Company

Learn from others’ mistakes! Here are the traps to avoid:

• Choosing the Cheapest Provider: The lowest bidder often delivers the lowest value. Cheap security is like a cheap lock on an expensive house; it gives false confidence while providing minimal actual protection.

• Overlooking Compliance Experience: If you’re in a regulated industry, compliance expertise is non-negotiable. Generic security providers might not understand your specific regulatory requirements.

• Ignoring Staff Expertise: The company might be great, but if junior staff will handle your account, you’re not getting the expertise you’re paying for.

• Not Asking About Employee Training: Your employees need security awareness training. If your security partner doesn’t offer this, you’re only protecting half the equation.

• Focusing Only on Tools Instead of Strategy: Tools are important, but strategy matters more. A strategic approach identifies your specific risks and addresses them comprehensively. Tool-focused providers might sell you expensive solutions you don’t actually need.

• Skipping the Contract Review: Always have a lawyer review the contract before signing. Look for:

• • • Clear scope of services
    • Well-defined SLAs
    • Reasonable termination clauses
    • Liability limitations
    • Data ownership and handling

• Assuming “Set It and Forget It”: Cybersecurity requires ongoing attention. If you hire a provider and then neglect security completely, you remain vulnerable.

Conclusion: Secure Your Business with the Right Cyber Security Partner

Let’s recap the 7 critical questions you must ask before hiring a cybersecurity company:

1. What is your experience & expertise?  Verify credentials, certifications, and relevant industry experience
2. What services do you offer?  Ensure comprehensive coverage or strategic specialisation
3. How do you detect, prevent & respond?  Understand their tools, processes, and response times
4. How do you ensure compliance?  Confirm they understand your regulatory requirements
5. What technologies do you use?  Verify modern, effective security tools and frameworks
6. What are your pricing & SLAs?  Get transparent pricing with clear service level commitments
7. Can you provide references?  Demand proof of results from similar businesses

The Long-Term Value of Expertise

Partnering with experienced cybersecurity professionals isn’t an expense; it’s an investment in your business’s future. The right partner:

• Prevents costly data breaches and ransomware attacks 
• Protects your reputation and customer trust 
• Ensures compliance and avoids regulatory penalties 
• Let’s you focus on growing your business instead of fighting fires 
• Provides peace of mind that your digital assets are protected

Evaluate Strategically, Not Just on Price

The cheapest option might cost you everything if a breach occurs. The right option protects your business while fitting your budget.

Consider:

• What’s the real cost of a security breach to your specific business?
• What’s the value of uninterrupted operations?
• What’s your reputation worth?
• What’s the opportunity cost of managing security yourself vs. focusing on your core business?

Ready to Protect Your Business?

Suppose you’re looking for a trusted cybersecurity company in Jaipur. In that case, 3Handshake offers comprehensive IT security services backed by years of experience, certified professionals, and a proven track record of protecting businesses across Jaipur and beyond.

From cyber security (firewalls, endpoint security, DDoS protection) to data security (encryption, backup, access control) to 24/7 monitoring and incident response, 3Handshake provides the complete protection your business needs.

Don’t wait for a breach to take security seriously. Contact 3Handshake today and secure your business with Jaipur’s trusted IT security experts.

Your business’s security is too important to leave to chance. Ask the right questions, choose the right partner, and protect what you’ve worked so hard to build.