We often don't think of it until it's too late; backing up data
is not an automatic reflex for users. According to a study conducted by the
company Iomega, almost half of those surveyed have lost important data as a
result of an incorrect operation, breakdown or virus because they hadn't backed
up their data. The risks are even higher for small companies and mobile
employees. Most users realize the importance of backing up files when such
catastrophes occur but don't know how to go about it. Here are some guidelines
on this essential step for protecting your data.
What does backing up data involve?
The expression "don't put all your eggs in one basket" summarizes the
main idea behind backing up files. Backing up your data is saving all or part of
your data located on one storage medium (hard drive, CD, diskette, etc.) to a
second medium to create an emergency copy in case something happens. You can
also create copies or mirrors of files without an external data storage device,
i.e. in another partition of your hard drive. But this option is risky because
it is ineffective in the event of major hard drive problems.
Why backup?
Computer files are fragile. One false move, a software bug or an improper
shutdown is enough to damage them and make them illegible. Files are also
susceptible to viruses, worms and Trojan horses. These malicious codes can cause
irreparable damage. Some like the Gigger virus and W32/Vote-B worm try to
reformat your hard drive.
Protecting your system from external attacks is not enough avoid these risks.
According to a study conducted by Clusif (French IT security association), 39%
of cases of data loss are associated with human error. Accidentally deleting a
file, exiting software without saving changes, losing a diskette or forgetting a
password can easily cause you to lose an important file.
The risks are greater if you use your PC for work. But you don't need to have
contracts, bills or confidential documents on your computer to worry about your
files. Who wouldn't regret losing their children's homework assignments,
e-mails, vacation photos or even MP3 files they downloaded from the Internet?
J2Datanet can provide an effective solution to ensure that your
"mission critical" files are backed up on a daily basis. We offer on site and
off-site backup solutions that will ensure the stability of your business in a
time of crisis. Contact us today for a comprehensive analysis.