| Backing up can be hard to do – just ask any small | | | | external media such as an external hard drive or |
| business owner. Backing up all your business-critical | | | | tapes to backup your data. |
| data can take time, money, and know-how and | | | | Use Multiple Layers of Protection – Don't rely on |
| although the potential risks typically far outweigh such | | | | just one single technology or type of backup, especially |
| costs, many business owners don't think about backing | | | | if backups are kept in the same vicinity as the originals. |
| up until after disaster has struck. Whether you are | | | | To ensure maximum protection, use a variety of |
| working on implementing a solution or haven't even | | | | methods and keep a copy of backups offsite. |
| given thought to one, here are a few data backup tips | | | | Consider Online File Storage – Online file storage |
| to help you get started: | | | | provides small to mid-sized business owners an |
| Determine your Backup Needs – What type of | | | | affordable, easy, and secure backup method. Most |
| data will your business be backing up? How often do | | | | online backup providers offer unlimited storage for a |
| you need to backup? Does the data need to be | | | | flat monthly fee and encrypt your data to ensure it is |
| encrypted? The answers to such questions can help | | | | not accessed by any unauthorized user. |
| you determine what data backup method is best | | | | Test the Recovery Process – Make sure you are |
| suited for your needs. | | | | familiar with what the recovery process entails and |
| Choose a Specific Backup Time – Remembering to | | | | make sure you perform a practice run before it is |
| regularly backup can be made easier by simply setting | | | | ever needed. Separate your backups accordingly |
| a specific time to backup. For example, backup every | | | | depending on how quickly they need to be restored in |
| Friday at 3 p.m. before you leave the office for the | | | | the event of a disaster. |
| weekend. This is especially beneficial if you are using | | | | |