Best Backup Solutions for Your Small Business

Monica Morris • Sep 05, 2018

Running a business requires hard work and dedication. In order to protect your investment, you must take a very important step: Data Backup. Modern small businesses depend on IT and by extension, data. Whether it is client’s information, customer’s orders or business processes, protection of this data is vital to your business’ survival. Data is everywhere in business and its loss can be disastrous.

Many business owners are having a hard time deciding on the best solution for their business because of a large number of backup options.

Below we discuss the best backup solutions out there and what you should consider before adopting one.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Backup Solutions

  • Data Size: The volume of your business data and their rate of growth are important when you are choosing a backup solution.
  • Organization Size: This can influence your preference for either on-premise or online storage. Businesses operating from various locations will require a more robust solution that can combine data than those with single location operation.
  • Regulatory Requirement: For many businesses, data backup isn’t just an optional security measure to manage disaster but a mandatory legal requirement which a non-compliance can attract stiff penalties.
  • Recovery Objectives: Some organizations can tolerate short-term outages. But if you need a rapid recovery solution because downtime is costly for your business, choose a solution that allows you to access and recover backup data quickly.

 

Best Backup Solutions

Network Attached Storage (NAS)

NAS is a flexible backup option that connects and store files over your computer network. It includes slots for multiple hard drives to expand its storage capacity. With its many file protocol, NAS operates seamlessly with both desktops and laptops. NAS acts as a server connecting your computer network to multiple storage devices.

It is low cost and suitable for small business with multiple computers. Because NAS is not removable, it is susceptible to the same disasters that affect a business’ premise. Some type of NAS with RAIDS technology offers high-level performance.

 

Cloud Backup

Cloud backup is a very popular backup method. It allows you to back up your data to a third-party server such as Amazon Drive. All you need to do is subscribe to your preferred service and configure your service provider app to automatically back up some or all of your business data at regular intervals.

Cloud backup is low cost and is often free for limited storage. As an off-site storage, it is protected from any disaster that may affect your business IT infrastructure. It may not be a good solution if you want more data privacy.

Another type of cloud backup is private cloud storage which is run and operated by individual businesses. It addresses the problem of privacy that is associated with public cloud storage.

 

Direct Attached Storage (DAS)

These are storage devices that are directly attached to a computer through an adapter. DAS includes, hard drives, SSDs, and optical drives.

They are affordable as a single unit but each computer will require its own DAS device which may be costly for businesses with a large number of PCs. They are generally not safe from business premise disasters and may not be a suitable tool for backup and recovery plan.

Optical drives such as DVD and Blu-ray discs have largely been replaced as a storage option for businesses. But they are useful in specific situations such as archival storage of small size files.

 

Conclusion

The best backup strategy is a combination of options where one solution complements the other. Some of the options are easy to deploy but others need the evaluation and expertise of a Business IT support specialist. It is important to test the integrity of your backup solutions before they are needed so they are ready in case of disaster. You are securing your business’ future by protecting your data through a backup and disaster recovery plan. Don’t wait until a problem arises because many companies never recover from data loss. Stay ahead of the game and contact SDTEK to learn more about how you can keep your company safe and secure.

Fort Wayne Indiana downtown
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.
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.
Share by: