These days just about everything is stored in the form of a computer file, whether it's photos, documents, invoicing or business contact details. As a result, the importance of protecting computer files and data has increased greatly and should be yet another item at the top of your 'to do' list.
It is estimated that up to 80 per cent of businesses, large and small that have a data recovery failure go out of business within 18 months. Imagine losing your invoicing data for the past five years and you will understand the pain of the issue I am writing about.
Backing up files manually is an idea but there are three major problems associated with it. First, if you back up your files yourself, it is likely that you keep the backed up data in the same location as the computer. No use to you if there is a fire or flood.
Secondly, you may choose to backup to a USB hard drive or thumb drive. The build quality here is not usually great, thus maybe there are better solutions to entrust your business and livelihood to.
Thirdly, even the most diligent of us is likely to forget to back up the files regularly. Once in a while you are bound to forget and the loss of even two days of data could cause a major headache.
These are the reasons why more and more people have turned to an online backup service. The online backup service solves both of the above problems since the files are stored in a separate location and regular backups are performed automatically according to a set schedule.
There are many companies out there that provide cloud backup services, but how can you choose the best one? Consider these five issues:
1. Ease of use: Ensure it is easy to use and you are shown fully how to use it by the vendor. The last thing you need is a confusing system when you are in a blind panic after losing all your invoicing data!
2. Ability to download to new computer: Ensure there is more than one method of getting at your data should the need arise.
3. Storage space: It goes without saying the more storage space the better, but use it wisely. Not all data needs to be backed up. For example, backing up program files is a waste of time.
4. Security: It is your data. To keep it that way ensure you use a solution which is encrypted and password protected.
5. Reputation: Look at the supplier's website; do they have testimonials from other companies you trust?
If these five conditions are met you will be in safe hands and you will sleep better at night.
