Implementing a Data Backup Plan

Don't let a hardware failure or flash flood leave you stranded
By Chris Maxcer, Freelance Writer Even though computers are very reliable, problems like virus attacks, thefts, power surges and natural disasters can bring your business to its knees. Generally, you want to back up all of your customer and transaction-related data, particularly items that haven't been closed out and accounted for. When you have data entering your business often, you want a more frequent backup schedule. And if a service outage will result in immediate lost business, you should seriously look at bringing in an IT consultant for a data defense in depth. Here are some questions you need to ask to implement a solid backup plan:

1. Which data files or applications do you need to back up?
2. How often should you backup your data?
3. Do you need high availability of your data?

 

Use simple backup media

If your backup needs are modest, you can get by with USB thumb drives, burnable CDs, or burnable DVDs. The key here is to implement a consistent data backup schedule and plan to store the data you need to backup.
Try: Make sure you have plenty of storage media: Office Depot or Staples carry what you need.

Use dedicated backup software

The risk-free solution for most small businesses is to use an application that lets you copy your entire PC hard drive with all your data and settings intact.
Try: Check out Norton Save & Restore or Acronis True Image.

Use a hard drive

You can buy inexpensive hard drives that you can attach to individual PCs or to your office network.
Try: Check out PCMag.com's Backup Storage Devices Reviews or CNET's Hard Drives and Burners Reviews.

Use an online backup service

Online services let you backup to the company's remote servers automatically.
Try: Check out Apple's .Mac, Data Deposit Box, Iron Mountain's Live Vault, SOS Online Backup, and Mozy.

When in doubt, call in the pros

If you'd face immediate lost business from an outage, it probably pays to hire experts rather than risk your livelihood yourself. Hire a local knowledgeable information technology consultant.
Try: Several services, such as Geek Squad and GeeksOnTime can visit your office and set you up with a combination of onsite and offsite backup.

• It's usually worth the extra initial investment to purchase a software solution and external hard drive or offsite online service because you can automate the backup process most easily.
• Test your backup data - you can't be sure that you have it backed up if you can't put it to use when you need it.