Backup vs. Back up
In discussing the process of making duplicates of your data for security and recovery purposes, it is helpful to know the difference between two words that are sometimes used interchangeably:
- Backup is a noun that describes, “One that serves as a substitute or support” or “a copy of computer data (as a file or the contents of a hard drive).”
- Back up is a verb that describes the action of creating the copy.
Technology provides many options for the modern business when you need to back up your data in order to have backup to restore. If this sounds confusing, the following list explains your options to get the job done.
1. PC Desktop Backup Software
Many employees still save data on their computer hard drives, when they should be saving their data onto their network drive. Desktop backup software can mitigate the problems that this can cause if a disaster compromises the workstation. PC Backup applications work in the background of your computer and send copies of your data to a designated network location. Enterprise-level backup software can sync with every workstation in your network and collect all of the data into a specific destination within your network.
2. Cloud Back up and Restore
Another efficient and secure way to back up and restore your data is to send it to the cloud. BaaS, or Backup-As-A-Service, is a cloud service that allows your business to securely back up your data at scheduled intervals that do not interfere with normal business hours. Cloud back up and restore is the most scalable of options and is able to grow with your data needs. Some restore options can even deliver your data back to you with a Recovery Time Objective (RTO) of less than 24 hours.
3. Onsite Server Backup
Server backup is an option that allows business to periodically send their data, either with desktop backup software or manually, to an onsite server dedicated to storage. Onsite servers can complement cloud servers, allowing faster back up and recovery of your business’s critical data. One of the disadvantages of onsite servers, though, is that if the physical location they are housed in is destroyed, then the server might be compromised as well. The incurring data loss can lead to thousands of dollars in downtime losses.
4. Offsite Datacenter Back up and Restore (Colocation)
Similar to hosted services, colocation involves sending your data to an offsite data center, away from your geographic region. This is especially useful in regions where natural disasters are more common. Enterprise level colocation sites ensure that your business’s critical data is safe, but still easily accessible.
Which Back up and Restore Option is Right for Your Business?
OPTION #1: You can leverage Centre’s enterprise-level Managed Services or Hosted Services to offload the burden of data management entirely.
OPTION #2: Centre’s certified consultants can design as Enterprise Consulting solution to install a self-hosted private cloud or onsite server.
Each business has different backup needs, and your IT solution should be tailored to meet the demands of your business. If you need to back up your data, but you are not sure which method would be best for your business, contact Centre Technologies for an answer today.
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