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Backup and Disaster Recovery: What Is The Difference?

Monica Morris • Jun 12, 2018

Backup vs. Disaster Recovery

If there are processes that can save your business in the event of a disaster would you deploy them? There are such processes and you have probably used them in one form or another. These two processes are Backup and Disaster Recovery. Data loss and computer crash may mildly affect an individual, but it could destroy a business. Many business owners think that Backup and Disaster Recovery are one and the same because they are often used together. But they aren’t. Explore with us as we discuss the difference between backup and disaster recovery and how they help organizations mitigate disasters.

What Is A Backup?

Backup is a fairly common process that many do on a regular or occasional basis. Backup is the copying of files and data for the purpose of archiving. The files are stored so that they can be restored in case the original files get lost or destroyed. Data can get lost or corrupted due to a number of reasons. These include viral infections, system software crash, hardware failure. Data loss can also be caused by the physical destruction of equipment by deliberate human actions or natural processes.

After such event, a backup plan can help to ensure that businesses can recover important files and continue where they stopped. With a backup solution in place, critical information does not get lost. A backup can help when a business loses its data but no so much when a company needs to restore its business operations. This is where disaster recovery comes in.

What Is Disaster Recovery (DR)?

Disaster recovery results from the creation of strategies and procedures that outlines how business continuity will be ensured in case of data loss or infrastructural failure. In DR, complete business operations and infrastructures are mirrored. That is, disk drives and servers are mirrored with the aim of switching over to them if a system failure occurs. Therefore, in case of a natural disaster or any calamity, a disaster recovery solution can be used to help with business continuity.

Differences between Backup and Disaster Recovery

Resources and Requirements

Disaster recovery requires an alternate production environment where all your data can live. In DR, the current business environment is analyzed holistically. That is, DR requires an environment where security, connectivity, software and physical resources can be duplicated. Unlike DR, backup involves copying just the data to a new location thus requires fewer resources.

Planning Process

A disaster recovery process requires a lengthy period of time to strategize on the way to have a smooth recovery process. DR requires you to determine the critical systems and also do an analysis of both environments and their compatibility. DR requires coming up with a data recovery plan. Backup does not require all these, it only needs to meet the data retention requirements and the Recovery Time Objective (RTO).

Recovery Ability

Backup is very effective when it comes to recovering lost files. However, if the entire back up system collapses, full recovery may be impossible. This is where disaster recovery can help and is able to restore the system in case of a disaster. This is because it involves transferring over the primary environment of your business to a secondary environment that is capable of sustaining your business operations.

Operation Recovery Speed

Backup allows a business to get back its lost data but to restore a full operation, a significant amount of time would have to be spent building the organization’s system. This is not the case for Disaster Recovery which allows the rapid restoration of activities. The process of recovering your business is fast when compared to backup because you don’t have to install new software.

How Backup and Disaster Recovery Work Together

Backup is an essential part of disaster recovery. It serves the basic function of keeping business data safe. A backup that is backing up your files is not enough to maintain a system. It is crucial to have a disaster recovery plan which is like an advanced form of backup. If there is a disaster, an organization can get its data back through backup and it can restore the complete system if a disaster recovery plan is in place.

It’s advisable to have a full disaster recovery plan that includes backup. This is to minimize downtimes and outages in case of any data loss or system failure. It is important to have a sound backup strategy and also check that your backup and disaster recovery processes are up to date and would work in the case of a disaster. This all can be accomplished by working with a managed IT service provider. Here at SDTEK we offer two managed security services. Please click here to learn more about our secureTEK services and find out how we can keep your business safe.

The post Backup and Disaster Recovery: What Is The Difference? appeared first on SDTEK | San Diego, CA.

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Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats in Fort Wayne: A Guide for Local Businesses

05 Jan, 2024

In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.

The Benefits of Cybersecurity Dark Web Monitoring for Business Owners

06 Dec, 2023

In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.