Things to consider when backing up your data
How much does your organisation rely on your critical data, such as contacts, financial details and important documents? Now, imagine losing access to this data. How long would you be able to operate without it?
Without having access to your organisations critical data you wouldn’t be able to operate. This is why it is important, no matter the size of your organisation to back up your data. Having recent back ups of your data that are in an easy to access location can ensure that your organisation can still operate in the event of a disaster, be a flood, fire, theft or cyber attack.
Below are 5 tips to consider when backing up your data;
Tip 1: Identify what data you need to back up
Firstly, you need to identify what data is essential to the day to day running of your organisation. This is information that your organisation could not function without, which could include documents, emails, contacts, calendars.
Tips 2: Keep your backups separate from your computer
You could use a USB stick, separate device or separate drive. Access to these backups should be restricted so that;
- It is not accessible by staff.
- Is not permanently connected to the device hosting the original copy.
Ransomware (and other malware) can infect attached storage devices, meaning that your backups could be infected if the device it is held on is still attached to the original infected device.
Tip 3: Consider using the cloud
You are probably already using the cloud without even knowing it in your everyday and work life. Unless you are running your own email server, your emails are already being hosted in the cloud.
Cloud storage is where a provider stores your data on their infrastructure. This means that your data is being stored in a location that is separate from you. Using the cloud means you can store your data without having to invest in expensive hardware and a location to store this hardware.
Tip 4: Read NCSC’s Cloud Guidance
Not all cloud service providers are the same. However, as the market is reasonably mature most providers have good security practices built in. To learn more about selecting a cloud service provider you should read NCSC’s Cloud Security Guidance.
Tip 5: Make backing up part of your everyday business
Backing up data may not be the most thrilling task, and it often gets pushed down the to-do list in favour of more pressing matters. However, the majority of network or cloud storage solutions now support automatic backups. These systems can back up files automatically when specific types are saved to designated folders. Opting for automated backups not only saves time but also guarantees that you have the most recent versions of your files available when necessary.
Off-the-shelf backup solutions are user-friendly and provide essential protection for your business at a reasonable cost. When selecting a solution, consider the amount of data you need to back up and how quickly you need access to the data in case of an emergency.