How to Remote Backup
A Backup Article Contributed by Melissa Larose
How to Remote Backup
Remote backup has been around for some time now. How does it work and is it right for your enterprise? Regular and reliable maintenance of your data is the most important aspect of any disaster recovery plan. Does remote backup of your network and data fit into the type of plan you envision for your enterprise? Even though you have maintained your network and backup process meticulously, as long as your data and system information are located in one place your business is at risk.
Why Remote Backup?
Backup of valued critical data is important. Leaving that data in the same location as the original data makes no sense. Maybe your company has not experienced a natural disaster. Many people need to experience something like that to remind them that it can happen to them before they realize the level of preparedness they need to take. By the time all of this occurs it is usually too late and the critical data is gone. This leaves the company high and dry with no backup or network to restore to.
Don't let this happen to you. Find a way to make data backup happen in your company. Mirroring your site in whole to a remote location is one of the best guarantees you have for recovery of your business after a disaster event.
How to Remote Backup
Once a service provider for your remote backup has been chosen the actual backup process can begin. By downloading software from your service provider's website. The software will ask for your personal network parameters. It will want to know your backup schedule preferences and what files you are requesting remote backup for. Then the backup service takes over from here.
The first remote backup may take some time and clog your system for a while. This is dependent on Internet capability and connection at your location. After the first download things smooth out and the downloads become easier because the requested information is only that data that has changed since the last download.
Some service providers will supply you with other features including interfaces for your employees to log in and out of, and tracking and monitoring devices so you can stay connected to your data. Encryption of your data before it leaves your site and decryption after the data arrives at your site ensures that your data is not hacked or snooped anywhere along the way of delivery. This also ensures that as the data sits on the provider's servers it is inaccessible to everyone at the remote location.
Remote Backup Safety
What good is a remote backup system if the data is unsafe on the other end of the line? When choosing a service provider ask for proof of their security plan. Visit the location if you are unsure of the quality being provided. Remote backup service providers should always have state-of-the-art security equipment to secure their buildings. Anything less puts their clients data and businesses in harms way.
