Costly Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Data Backup
Can your current data backup protect your business?
Backup is essential for business security whether it is implemented by an IT support company or an employee, but it must be done right to serve its functions. A flawed backup only gives a false sense of security and will not deliver when needed.
In this article, we share some common pitfalls that may render backups unusable.
Unplanned Backups
Your system’s resources are limited and must be properly managed for efficient operations.
Backing up large data across servers at the same time may hog system resources and can even cause crashes.
For efficient backups, data copying should be scheduled for off-peak periods.
Some backups are time-critical while others can wait, you should come up with a plan to balance resource availability with backup urgency.
Inconsistent Backups
Not backing up your data is a bad idea but an inconsistent backup policy may also cause data loss. Since you cannot predict future system crash or data theft, a custom backup plan should be developed to protect your business. Your managed IT services provider can help you create a secure plan. Your data backup plan should be based on how fast you generate new data.
An inconsistent backup will leave your operating system vulnerable in between backups.
Using the Sync Feature as Backup
Some software such as Dropbox and iCloud allows for setting up auto-sync feature.
Unfortunately, syncing merely allows you to access updated files on different devices.
For serious businesses, a robust backup solution is needed to make proper copies of important files on secure devices and locations.
Relying on One Backup
Given the importance of backups for business protection and the potential failure of storage devices, one backup copy is simply not enough.
The backup type and the locations should be varied to maximize day to day data safety.
Having many backups will ensure that your primary backup is protected in case of a disaster.
Lack of Clarity and Documentation
Every company has its unique data needs. If your backup is not tailored to your needs or it is based on generic solutions, then your data is not well-protected. Some important data may not be captured by such a system.
Your backup should be planned based on your needs, the data lifetime and business priority.
While backing up your data, always document the process and the recovery methods. Without documentation, the recovery process may fail in case there is a disaster because your employee won’t know the correct steps to take.
Using the Wrong Backup Methods
Several methods of storing data exist and some are more suitable for certain purposes.
While tapes and disks are old techs, they are still useful in some backup scenarios. Your organizations’ need and data will inform the best backup method.
Choosing the wrong backup method could result in data loss and cost your business money.
Latest backup options such as cloud storage or cloud backup are versatile but you must select the right one for your business from the various options available. Also, you need to learn the limitation of the different backup options for a better choice.
Backing up through a Guest OS
Virtual Machines (VMs) are commonly deployed by businesses these days. However, they require a different backup approach than a host system.
It is a common mistake to think that backing up a system through guest OS is the same as a host backup.
A guest OS backup may appear to be working but the process lacks direct access to physical storage which may cause unexpected problems during data recovery.
Guest OS backup is best done through the virtualization layer of the host so that all VM data can be captured. A host backup ensures that the VM is not aware of the copy process which helps to save valuable system resources.
Outsourcing Data Backup
Personal data backup can be done with simple data storage but a business backup requirements are complex and thus requires the help of experienced IT support professionals to set everything up. Since small businesses often lack the resources to train or hire a full-time IT manager, outsourced IT support is crucial for an effective backup plan creation and implementation.
Don’t just backup your system, make sure it is done right. Get in touch with a Managed Service Provider today. If you are looking for a local San Diego IT professional, please contact us today for help with creating a secure backup strategy and plan for your business.
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