Whether you\u2019re a startup or global corporation, backups are an essential part of any business\u2019 IT strategy.<\/p>\n
Creating and storing multiple copies of your data is key to preventing file loss due to device theft, malicious attacks, or even a fire or leak in your office.<\/p>\n
We understand that backups and disaster recovery can be confusing and that duplicating and managing files is time-consuming for business owners.<\/p>\n
This is why we\u2019ve rounded up some basic tips on how to set up and maintain backups successfully.<\/p>\n
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A key factor that discourages people from maintaining backups is the lack of knowledge of how to do so properly.<\/p>\n
The standard recommendation is the 3-2-1 method; three copies of your data, stored on (at least) two different types of device, with one of these located offsite.<\/p>\n
Many make the mistake of having only one backup of files. Of course, this is a lot better than having none at all, yet having two extra duplicates significantly reduces your chance of complete data loss.<\/p>\n
You must ensure that these are stored on two different types of medium, such as a USB stick and an external hard drive. This protects you against device malfunction or physical damage to the storage units.<\/p>\n
Lastly, you must always store one of your backups away from the other copies. By using different locations, you can cover yourself if there is a fire, burglary or another unfortunate event in your office space.<\/p>\n
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You may be thinking \u201cBut, I don\u2019t have access to an additional site to store a backup!\u201d<\/p>\n
Startups and small businesses can still use the 3-2-1 method, without having to hire out another office or storage space. Cloud services provide a more affordable \u2013 yet secure \u2013 service, which allows companies the opportunity to store their files on a remote server that is managed by a trusted company like Amazon and Microsoft.<\/p>\n
These services are a great option for you if you are already using OneDrive, Google Drive or DropBox to store documents and data because they can be seamlessly integrated.<\/p>\n
Just remember, file sharing sites like the aforementioned are not a backup solution and should always be used in tandem with other backup methods.<\/p>\n