Remote Data Backup

Pros and Cons of Remote Data Backup

The process of remote data backup involves saving files and other data by using branch offices and other remote locations for their secure storage. Many businesses – especially those that do not have a dedicated IT department or that have only a single location – choose to hire data backup services in order to provide their protection and ensure the best possible recovery solutions.

Typically, the data backup itself can be done in-house with the right software that will connect with the remote secure location where it will then be stored. That said, one of the latest and most rapidly growing data backup technologies involves this same process but without the physical storage location. This is known as cloud data backup. In this situation, the data is still stored offsite, but no additional service, physical location, technology or staff resources are required.

What many business owners want to know, though, is whether or not the cost of a remote data backup service is worth the value it returns. Have a look at the pros and cons of this process and decide whether or not it is worthwhile for your own company.

The Advantages of Remote Data Backup

There are many benefits for your business. If you have ever experienced data loss, then you know that at that moment, you would pay just about anything to have the opportunity to recover it. However, with a struggling economy and the need to keep costs to a minimum, it is important to know whether these advantages are indeed worth it in the long run. The following are some of the primary reasons that businesses choose data backup services.

·         Nothing extra is required from your business – to use this type of storage and recovery service, you don’t need CDs, tapes, drives, or any other storage equipment.

·         Data is automatically stored offsite without having to manually transport it – unlike with manual onsite backup techniques, when you use remote data backup software, that information is automatically sent to another location so that there is no risk in case of flood, fire, or other damage to your business location.

·         Multiple location storage for added protection – the best data backup services have multiple storage locations in case of a single site failure. Essentially, your backup has a backup.

·         Remote data backup is faster and easier over time – after the initial backup, only the incremental changes need to be added to the storage, which saves a great deal of time in what could otherwise be a slow process.

·         Security encryption – when you use a good quality data backup service, then you will not only be saving it offsite, but you will have the security of knowing that it has been encrypted and compressed so that it cannot be accessed by anyone other than yourself or individuals to whom you have given authorization.

The Drawbacks of Remote Data Backup

As with everything in life, while there are many advantages, there can also be some disadvantages. Many of them can be avoided by simply choosing the right service, but others are simply part of the process and have to be accepted as such.

·        Bandwidth and storage size restrictions – many data backup companies have limits to the bandwidth and storage size, which means that there may be a cessation of service if those limits are passed or – more commonly – an additional fee will be charged. Have a look at how much data can be stored within the plan you are considering, and pay attention to the bandwidth speed and amount. Anything that is too small will mean that your backup (especially in the case of the initial data storage) will be slow and potentially costly.

·        Other security considerations – beyond data encryption, the amount of security provided with data backup services varies widely. Pay attention to additional security features such as clearances, password protection, and actual efforts at the various storage facilities (such as security systems, climate control, backup power generators, etc.).

·         Encryption process failure – check with any remote data company you are considering to find out their procedure in the case of a failed encryption process. That said, make sure that there are also adequate systems in place to assist you should your encryption password ever be lost.

·         Service provider stability – have a good look at the service provider itself. Remember that should it raise its fees or go out of business, this will have affect its cost and value to your company.