9 things to look for when considering data backup solutions
by Ray Burton
Published on this site: May 27th , 2005 - See
more articles from this month...
It's one thing to loose data and money because of hackers
and thieves of various kinds; it's a different thing again
when it's because you didn't back up your data properly or
not at all. Value you data! Whether it's that critical business
document, your thesis, your website or your home accounts
and precious photo's.
Data can be lost through power surges, computer crashes,
fires and theft to name a few. You wouldn't leave your home
unlocked and the doors wide open without any occupants, so
be sure to close the door to possible losses and theft of
data.
The most important aspect of this issue, is to properly back
up. So here are a few things to look for when considering
a data back up solution.
- Is it automatic?
You don't want to be using a system that is dependent on
human action and consequently vulnerable to being forgotten
or misused.
- Is it simple to use?
You don't want something that's complicated and time consuming
to understand. You need a set and forget system; at least
until it's needed!
- Is it secure?
Your data must be off-site. It is no good having a back
up file on your PC. It must be remotely stored on at least
one other PC. If your PC has a major fire etc the hardware
maybe lost but the data and profit is safe.
- Is it confidential?
A sad fact of life is that there are those around that get
their kicks from destroying or stealing your data. Make
sure the system you use is encrypted to at least 448 bit
and password protected. That way total privacy gives peace
of mind.
- Is the data compressed?
If you have a lot of data to back up you'll want to reduce
the storage requirement and cost by having it compressed
first. Don't underestimate how much you business or study
material will grow!
- Is the system informative?
Don't put your self in the position of "hoping it worked".
Get some form of feedback that assures you it has.
- Is the system flexible?
Make sure that the system is capable of backing up any file
size or type. Don't get caught out by thinking you don't
need much storage or the ability to save certain types of
files.
- Is it versatile?
Make sure the system has the versatility to deal with pda's
and mobile phones. Also make sure that it has both automatic
and manual back facility. You want the automatic feature
for the benefit of set and forget, but you also want the,
"back up my data now" feature so that you have
the benefit of not having to worry through the time between
finishing your thesis or proposal and knowing it is really
secure.
- Is it backed up more than once?
Don't rely on a system that only has one copy. Make sure
that it has several copies stored on at least 2, preferably
3, off-site computers. Think virus! If your system is hit
with a virus you can then go back to a file before the virus
took a hold.
Ray Burton is an online marketer of resources, business
opp's and training programs for those wanting to start and maintain
an online presence. Visit his site at http://www.cyberchoices.info
Get a full review of his recommended resource for data backup at
http://www.cyberchoices.info/depositit/
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