Data backup and disaster recovery are synonymous with business continuity. But there are some fundamental differences that are worth taking note of. Also, the role of cloud computing directly impacts data backup and disaster management practices in your business. Check out some basic ideas here showing why data backup and disaster recovery are at the core of your business IT insurance.
Data Backups
Backing up data is what it says on the label – making copies of data in the event that the original is lost, corrupted or becomes unusable. Hardware can fail, accidental file deletion happens, or your network could be subject to a virus attack. All reasons and more why you need to back up your data.
You should also have a data retention policy in place so that you can recover data to an earlier point in time. In this sense, data backups are part of a disaster recovery plan. But don’t be fooled into thinking that backups alone are the whole enchilada.
Recovery
Having a sound disaster recovery plan in place means that your critical business operations are fully supported by IT and technology systems. Put simply, this means is business as usual even when disaster strikes in the form of a flood, power loss or internet outage. Remember that disaster recovery should form an integral part of your business continuity plan.
Good disaster recovery practice means that you will be able to access vital services such as telephony and IT systems remotely, thereby keeping your business alive. While disaster recovery involves data backup, in essence, it enables you to replicate your live environment from a different location. Good disaster recovery management gives you increased flexibility and enhanced strategic planning. For example, employees can work from home and you can access data and applications on the move.
Enter the Cloud
Cloud computing and effective disaster recovery planning go hand in hand. The cloud is a flexible and affordable way of replicating your data off-site. Many small companies buy a cloud storage package so that their data is backed up in the case of an emergency. Microsoft Azure, Google Anthos and Amazon Web Services are in fierce competition with their IT cloud offerings so you could end up with a bargain when opting for this form of IT insurance.
Don’t Go IT Alone
You can get all the help you need and more from your local managed service provider (MSP). Your MSP will implement automated backup, enable off-site and remote access and construct a solid disaster recovery strategy. The MSP will also continuously monitor your IT infrastructure and verify the integrity of backups.
No single business is risk-free. Outsourcing IT to an MSP means that your data will be protected, disaster recovery is swift, and any expensive downtime is minimized.
