Offsite Data Protection is Better than CDs

Almost 25% of all computer users have lost memories, manuscripts, and endless hours of work due to viruses, acts of nature, and even hackers. In addition, if you own a business, your chances are 1 in 2 that your business will fail if you lose your all or most of your data. A look at the four most common methods of data storage reveals that they do not all offer the same benefits and safety.

You might be using your CD or DVD recorder to back up your files, but CDs and DVDs aren’t as safe you might think. Although the files might copy just fine onto the disks, over time these disks can become damaged making the files impossible or very difficult to recover. And if you don’t remember to back up on a regular basis, then of course the files won’t be there when you need them. Not only that, CD and DVD backups are not encrypted so they are vulnerable in case of theft.

Many people are also backing up their data onto a second hard drive or tape storage, either internal or external. You will likely be able to recover data easily with these devices but only if they have not been corrupted or damaged along with the original hard drive in the same natural disaster or virus attack. And don’t rule out the theft option. And some reports say that up to half of all attempts to recover data on tape backups do fail.

The easiest and most worry-free way to secure your files is with the services of an off site data storage company. Off site data backup is fairly effortless and involves the following:

Local Software Installation

First, you will download and install an application to interface with the backup server of the online storage provider. It takes about 20-30 minutes to set up the program.

Initial Backup of Entire System

Second, backing up files of this sort requires a fast connection, such as with a cable modem, DSL line or a T1 line. Third, try to schedule your first full backup during an opportune time. Don’t worry about the safety of your data because reputable off site backup providers encrypt your data and store it in super secure locations second in safety only to the CIA and FBI.

Web Management System

Finally, from almost any web connection anywhere in the world, you should be able to schedule regular online backups, verify the safety of your backed up files and retrieve them on demand, if a web interface is offered. You will probably also receive a unique encryption code known only to you for safe access to your files.

I’ll leave you with this proverb: don’t spend your days worrying about losing your data; worry about not having an offsite backup service to recover it. To secure your business, learn more data backup strategies at Data Backup Solutions.