Cloud Backup and Offsite Backup Solutions For Your Business

Monica Morris • Jun 20, 2018

The last thing you want to happen is to lose your data or to have it fall into the wrong hands. Data, whether it’s a sales report or top-secret corporate plans, is one of the most important assets for a business. This is why it is crucial to have a reliable backup system for data protection. Most people use portable hard drives to store their data. However, this in itself is not the best solution, especially if your backup media is physically stored in the same place as the source. To add an extra layer of protection and reduce the risk of data loss and/or reduce single point of failure, many organizations choose to backup their data off-site.

What is Cloud Backup?

Cloud backup involves sending a copy of your data to a remote server via the internet. The server is usually managed by a third-party online backup service provider. It helps to improve a business’ data security at a minimal cost to the organization. It also aids disaster recovery in case of an unforeseen circumstances that can lead to the destruction of data.

Cloud-based data storage has become the convenient solution for organizations and individuals to safely and securely store and protect their data offsite thus reducing the risk of data loss.

Cloud backups can happen in one of three ways:

  1. Direct backup to the public cloud such as Amazon web service
  2. Backup to a service provider data center
  3. Making a copy of cloud-based data to a cloud backup service

Physical storage media are vulnerable to damage, be it was from smoke, fire, water, heat, dust or natural disasters which means that private storage facilities need to have built-in controls to guard against such environmental factors. Physical storage security is really a matter of how secure a business facility is against physical intrusions. With cloud backup, physical risks to data are significantly reduced.

While cloud-based data backup and file hosting services address the different issues and challenges faced by onsite physical backup methods, there are still some risks involved. This is because cloud backup services ultimately rely on physical devices for storage. Cloud backup providers have remote data centers that are just as vulnerable to natural disasters. These service providers can also close down or change their services, putting clients in a difficult position. It is important for organizations to look at alternative and secondary data backup plan tools and solutions.

Offsite Backup

There are several options that are available to organizations looking for offsite data backup, they include the following:

Internet Backup Services

One option is utilizing the services of an internet backup service provider. An internet backup service provider will upload copies of your data onto remote servers. This is done automatically over the internet. These service providers provide software that will automatically back up an entire hard drive to the cloud. They often keep multiple versions in different locations which guards against disasters and total destruction. These services are can be very useful to businesses. There are other backup tools that individuals and small business can use. They include file-sharing services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive or iCloud.

Physical Storage Media

Despite the drawbacks, physical storage media are still valuable for data backup. You can improve your data security by using multiple storage devices. These devices can be easily moved around so you don’t have to put them in one physical space.  If you have safety concerns, then you can store your external drive or USB in a safe to keep it secure. Secondary drives or Network-attached storage (NAS) devices can also be installed. NAS devices hold additional drives in your network and will constantly mirror your main hard drive so that if it fails, you still have access to your data through your secondary drive. Popular NAS devices include QNAP, Drobo, and Synology.

Automatic Backups

PCs and Macs come with backup software that you can use to store files in secondary drives or in the cloud. This particular backup solution are a series of backup tools that help to sync your data without requiring your intervention.  Time machine on the Mac allows users to incrementally backup data to an external drive. A similar function is performed by Backup and Restore on Windows. While iCloud helps to sync data to the cloud on both Mac and Windows.

Performing regular backups and storing it offsite is an important security practice not just for large enterprises but also for small businesses. Accidents can happen and you may lose years of acquired data. Remote backup tools offer a lot of desirable features and most importantly, secure storage. Companies that specialize in offsite cloud storage are better equipped to adapt to new technologies and have built-in systems to prevent data loss thus improving data security for businesses. At SDTEK, our secureTEK Backup and Disaster Recovery includes a robust BDR solution which includes onsite and offsite backup. Please contact us today to speak with a team member about your businesses cloud backup and offsite backup needs.

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: