[ad_1]
Here at Prime PC & Networking Services, we have found that backing up data is one of the most common mistakes small businesses make when it comes to their computers and computer networks. Not because the data backups got done incorrectly, but because they are not done at all. A lot of the Value of a small business is stored on the computers that the business uses. Think about it: customer lists, inventory database, proprietary software, the business's books. Close your eyes and imagine how you would continue business as usual if someone came in over the weekend and stop every computer in your workplace? Or your building burns down. Or a tornado takes everything to Oz. Get the picture?
Determining your Backup Strategy is very straight forward and by answering a few questions you will be half-way there.
What data (computer files or programs) do you need to run your business?
Make a list of and the location of all computer files that you will need in case of a disaster.
Most of the time these files are spread through the various computers in a small business.
Attempt to consolidate these files in as few locations on the computers as possible. This will make the actual act of backing up less complicated.
Decide how often you need to backup your data. Monthly, weekly, daily? I used to work for an organization that backed up their data the instant anything was written to their servers. The backups were on live servers in a far away place, which allowed the business to continue operations within hours in case the something terrible happened to their building. The frequency of your backups should be related to how much new data is written to your systems each day and how crippled your operation would be if you lost a day's, week's, month's worth of this information.
Decide the method of backing up. Something as simple as burning a CD with the mission critical data works for some. Others need sophisticated systems such as external tape drives backing up on a two week rotation, with the tapes stored off-site (sometimes simply in a fire-proof safe in an employees closet at home).
Finally, Just Do It! And keep a log that shows the date, time, success of backup, and the person logging the information. It is also recommended that a backup is restored and tested on a regular basis to make sure a backup is actually taking place.
The Boy Scouts of America had it right when they picked up the Scout Motto: "Be Prepared"
[ad_2]
Source by Paul Melland
