Online Backup Solutions | What is a backup and why have one?

Speak to any reputable IT consultant (some of them can hold a conversation!) and they will stress how important it is to have a backup. Without a backup most businesses wouldn't survive if they suffered computer failure, theft or a natural disaster.

If you store all of your files such as Microsoft Word and Excel documents or if you run a CRM or Accounts package of some kind (more than likely Sage or Quickbooks) on a certain computer, you need to ask yourself "What would I do if this computer fails?". If you have a backup solution in place, the computer failing (or being stolen or burnt to a crisp) really shouldn't matter. A decent backup solution will allow you to be fully working again in a couple of hours.

Backing up your data using the Internet and an Online Backup Solution

There are several methods (in our humble opinion) for backing up your data. You can use a local backup solution which basically backs up your data to a USB hard drive which you can they take off site with you. The second method which this article is based around, is using an online backup solution which backs up your data using the Internet.

How does an Online Backup Solution work?

An online backup solution works by having a small piece of software installed on your computer or server. You then choose the files you want to backup. The software then backups up your data on a specified schedule (such as instantly, during the night or at a specific time of the day). Your data is then uploaded to your online backup solutions data centre using a secure method of encryption.

What are the benefits of using an Online Backup Solution?

• You have an offsite backup of your data, protecting you against computer failure or theft

• In some cases this software is completely free

• Paid for products cost as little as £40 for a year, for an unlimited amount of data

What are the drawbacks of using an Online Backup Solution?

• If you have lots of data, it could take days to download it all again

• You are dependant on there being an Internet connection, no Internet means no backup!

• Not all of them can backup email systems and databases

Hopefully all of this gives you food for thought. If you are interested in having an Online Backup Solution, please contact us using our quick contact form or call us on 01527 908646.