Data backup and recovery is one of the most overlooked parts of a company’s IT structure. With all of the technology available today, the absence of even the most elementary backup system is a mortal sin in regard to the business technology universe. There are affordable backup and data recovery systems in every price range, so even companies with limited budgets can afford an elementary system at the very least. Also many computer services firms now offer backup and data recovery systems as integral parts of their managed IT services.
Here are the top 10 questions to answer when pondering the right backup and data recovery system:
1. What do I do if I delete a file I need?
2. Where is my email stored and is it backed up?
3. What if my computer crashes? Even if my data is saved how long will it take me to rebuild my computer to a working state?
4. Is my data all located in the same physical space?
5. Will a catastrophe wipe out my backup solution i.e. an earthquake?
6. Does my business rely on any one system for business critical functions? How long can my business operate without a functioning system? Does my current backup solution accomodate that expectation?
7. Does someone in our company know how to retrieve information off backups?
8. Are my backups regularly tested so I know they are working?
9. Are my backups monitored so I know if they are ever failing?
10. Is the backup data media (i.e. hard drives or tapes) transferred in a secure, controlled manor since it contains all data for my entire business?
This list covers about one-fourth of the questions that you should review when it comes to a practical backup and disaster recovery solution so if you haven’t asked yourself these questions, start today! If you are confused, contact a local computer services provider which should be able to assist your company.