A recent study involving C-level executives operating in small and medium-sized businesses found that more than 20 percent of SMEs lack proper data protection and recovery solutions. In the modern data-driven world, data security is a universal concern and should be a priority for every business.
Organizations can lose precious data in an instant following human error, hardware or software malfunctions, power outages, theft, natural disasters, or cyber-attacks. Despite understanding all these risks, data loss is sometimes unavoidable. Part of an effective data security strategy has proactive measures to restore data after an unexpected loss. Here are three essential tips for ensuring stress-free data recovery.
1. Save your data with recovery in mind
Your data storing habits can determine how easy it would be to recover lost data. Most SMEs store their data on local workstations and servers with varying degrees of recoverability. Naturally, a single computer, server, or hard drive cannot solely be entrusted with handling and securing an enterprise’s entire data repository.
Every time you have to save a file, database, or raw information, consider all the risks involved and the possible data recovery routes. Ideally, keep your data in at least two separate copies on different computers or storage units; that way, the redundant copy or backup becomes your go-to recovery option.
Also, avoid saving essential files to locations that might be difficult to access during recovery. For instance, files saved on a desktop would probably be lost forever if something happened to the native computer.
Consider Office 365 backup for data protection with a fast and effective recovery ability. This service for Office 365 users protects against accidental and malicious file deletion, user errors, ransomware, security threats, and data corruption and loss, keeping your data secure and your business running without interruption.
2. Use the cloud
Enterprise cloud storage is among the fastest-growing commercial IT segments. A growing number of large and small enterprises are realizing the convenience of storing and backing up valuable data securely on remote servers.
The cloud is an easy and inexpensive way to store large volumes of data on a secured virtual environment. Unlike on-site data centers, cloud storage is immune to common threats such as accidents, unintentional damages, natural disasters, sabotage, and power failure. On top of that, the cloud provides seamless backup and data recovery facilities through automation and round-the-clock remote accessibility features.
It is crucial to have a redundant off-site data backup as a fail-safe to guarantee recovery in case the local data storage becomes unavailable or unresponsive. Some organizations even take it a step further by having rudimentary virtual workstations on standby to carry on cloud data transactions if the on-site IT infrastructure fails.
3. Let professionals handle data recovery
In most cases, some data types can still be retrieved after accidental deletion or damaged devices such as servers, computers, hard drives, and even removable storage and smart devices. Although it is not always a guarantee that all the data is salvageable after a disaster, it is worth giving it a try. Working with IT or data recovery experts increases the chances of rescuing valuable data from ruined hardware or corrupt file systems.
Do not attempt any DIY recovery tricks — fiddling with the delicate equipment without the proper expertise and tools might worsen the situation. Contact your MSP immediately after a data loss incident to take you through a proven data recovery process.
Data loss can be devastating; in fact, most businesses that suffer severe data loss never fully recover. Follow these simple tips to create a robust data recovery plan to eliminate or at least limit data loss implications. Effective data security is all about preparing for the inevitable and identifying and mitigating risks.
Give yourself the best chance of data protection and recovery by partnering with a reputable and experienced managed IT provider. Reach out to us today.
