30 / 01 / 2014
Whether
it’s as simple as overwriting a file or as severe as a natural disaster
– data loss can be seen as an unavoidable implication in business.
Small to medium size businesses tend not to have a full data backup
process in place to prevent the loss of data, or if they do, these
processes can be flawed.
100% of Data is not backed up
Many variables can contribute to having a less than optimum amount of
data being backed up/archived. This could include employees that work
remotely, certain PCs/laptops not being backed up in the first place and
an email archiving solution not being implemented.
Data backup process untested
A data backup process is needed to ensure that all files are getting
archived correctly. Do not simply set up the data backup process and
assume it is correctly storing all of your data. This needs to be
checked on a regular basis; otherwise the risk of data loss dramatically
increases.
Backup files become corrupt
This is extremely prevalent within email archiving. PST Files (a
short term archiving solution for email) are prone to corruption if they
surpass a certain size. This can be prevented by understanding how your
data is being backed up i.e. what files types and their advantages/
disadvantages compared with others. Relating to PST Files, using email
archive software which archives all emails to a secure server rather
than storing files locally would be the preferred option.
Natural disasters and human error
Natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods can cause irreparable
damage to businesses which do not backup their data. Human error is
prevalent in all businesses and it is very difficult to avoid. Automated
backup routines with regular backup checks are advised; if possible use
email archiving software and other data backup routines that do not
require files to be stored locally.
Backing up emails and data is a necessity
For the reasons listed above, it is advised that all businesses,
regardless of the size, should have an air tight backup process in place
to archive their emails and data. Treating the backup process as a mere
formality could cause your organisation major problems in the future.