Sending backups off-site ensures systems and servers can be reloaded with the latest data in the event of a natural disaster, accidental error, or system crash. Sending backups off-site also ensures that there is a copy of pertinent data that isn't stored on-site. Off-site backup services are convenient for companies that backup pertinent data on a daily basis (classified and unclassified).
Additionaly, access to this data in a timely manner can mean the difference between a survival and extinction when disaster strikes.
Some Do's and Don'ts of backups.
Do...
- Backup all your mission critical data.
- Make sure the backup data, or a copy leaves the physical site - so many businesses back up to tape and then keep the tapes on-site. In the event of a problem the tapes may be destroyed, or inaccessible.
- Test your restore process regularly.
Don't...
- Assume backup tapes will survive an office fire, even in a fire safe.
- Assume your data can be restored - Test it!
- Assume that backups will perform the same functions as data archiving.
