Secure Data Backup is Safer Online

Almost 1 in 4 computers have lost their data to hackers, viruses, and acts of nature. 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 brief review of the following backup methods show that they do not all offer the same amount of safety.

CDs and DVDs are probably the most common way to back up files, but they don’t offer the kind of security that you might think they offer. You might verify that the files did copy just fine to the disks, but for various technical reasons, when you really do need to get the data back, the disk might be scratched or otherwise corrupted and the files cannot be recovered. And if you are like me and don’t have the self-discipline to manually back up your data onto disk, then weeks and months of work will be at risk. In addition to that, your backed up files on CD or DVD are at risk in case of theft because the files are not encrypted.

Many people are also backing up their data onto a second hard drive or tape storage, either internal or external. You should have success with these backup devices if they have not been stolen, corrupted, or damaged in the same disaster that caused your original files to be stolen, corrupted, or damaged. And industry research reveals that tape backup can fail to recover files up to 50% of the time.

The best way to keep your backups current and safe is to utilize offsite data backup services that specialize in keeping your files automatically backed up and secure until you need them. Offsite data protection and file recovery is a fairly easy process:

Local Software Installation

First, you will download and install an application to interface with the backup server of the online storage provider. Setup of the program is usually very simple and takes about half an hour.

Initial Backup of Entire System

Second, you’ll need to have at least a connection as fast as a DSL or cable modem. Third, perform a full system backup during an opportune time. For secure storage, respectable offsite data backup providers store your files in highly secure “vaults” that are maintained and observed 24 hours a day.

Web Management System

Finally, many online data backup providers offer a web interface for convenient access to scheduling backups and retrieving files anywhere an internet connection is available. You will probably also receive a unique encryption code known only to you for safe access to your files.

  To protect your files and your business, get more information about data backup strategies at Data Backup Solutions.