Why do I need to take regular backups?
Unfortunately no system is 100% safe from failure. Security threats, viruses, malicious attacks, mechanical failures, user errors and disaster situations could in the worst-case scenario destroy a server, computer or entire network.
It is therefore imperative to maintain comprehensive and regular backups of important information. Backups are the ultimate fail-safe of any network.
Why do I need to monitor backups?
Backups are also susceptible o failure. There could be a problem at any given point with the backup software (such as Veritas Backup Exec), hardware (Tape drive or similar) or media (backup tape or the like.
The ongoing success of backups can only be guaranteed if the backup system is monitored and maintained.
Why do I need to regularly clean a backup drive?
Tape drives write vast quantities of information to a tape media on a regular basis. Because of this, reusable media are normally required, and the cost of technology means a backup tape similar to an old tape cassette is the most appropriate (as opposed to a digital solution).
These are much more likely to become dirty and decrease the performance and success of backups. Tape drives need to be cleaned (using a tape cleaning cartridge) on a regular basis – about once a month is a good guide.
What is a ‘Valuable Data Profile’?
If all your data was lost, some could be easily recovered (such as software programs loaded by CD), some wouldn’t matter (such as temp files), and some would have massive consequences (such as your accounts data).
Key4 defines a ‘Valuable Data Profile’ as the data you would want to restore in a disaster recovery situation. This normally includes server configurations, user profiles, company and user files, accounts profiles, and many other types of data that will be specific to your individual needs.
You should be aware of what is contained in your ‘Valuable Data Profile’ and make sure the data is sufficiently backed up.
Why do I need to review my ‘Valuable Data Profile’?
The size and types of your data will change on an almost daily basis. You may create new files, start using new programs, or change the way in which you work.
You need to review your Valuable Data Profile to make sure you know what information is important to you and that it is included in your regular backups.
Where should I store my backup media?
It is important to store your backup media in a suitable location. Apart from a few obvious things such as keeping backup tapes away from magnets, hot or cold temperatures, etc. you should not store your backups in your office because if your office was to suffer a fire or flood both your data and backup media could be lost.
In most small businesses, an existing employee can take the backup media home with them at night and keep them offsite until the tapes are needed again.
If you are going to store your backup tapes in the same location as the data they are backing up, then you should at least keep them in a suitable fire-safe that will protect the tapes under most circumstances.
Why do I need to take a permanent backup?
Whilst you may not think it is essential to have a permanent backup of your old information, there are many situations where it may be useful.
Some files may have been changed prior to your existing set of backups, or you may wish to look back at a snapshot of your company information in the future (such as your accounting position at a given point).
Whilst it may not be the single most important of your backup strategy, it is a good practice to take regular permanent backups for your future records.
What is included in your ‘Network Support Backup’ Package, will it maintain my backup so I don’t have to worry?
Yes. Our Network Support Backup Package is designed to maintain the ongoing success of your company’s backup.
Once set-up and configured, your backup procedures will be reduced to a few simple actions when prompted (such as changing tapes each day). We respond to any issues, and keep you informed of your position.