Think Your Data is Safe? Think Again!

Conducting a few simple checks can reveal the truth about your data security.

Many small business owners have a 'set it and forget it' mentality when it comes to data backup. I've seen companies spend thousands of dollars on tape solutions and top-notch software but never take the time to test that it's working properly. They simply assume their data is safe... until a server crashes and it's time for them to do a restore. Unfortunately, these companies often wind up losing critical data forever. There's nothing worse than when a business owner thinks they're covered because they invested in solutions that appeared to be working, but in fact were just ticking time bombs.

Fortunately, there are 5 simple steps you can take to test the strength and viability of your backup solution. If performed regularly, they can not only save you the nightmare of losing your company's critical data, but also help you get a good night's sleep knowing that your most important assets are safe.

1. Review policies and procedures for storage and transportation of data. Improper care of storage devices can damage your disks and corrupt your data.
2. Run an analysis on your maintenance schedule, backup and restore procedures and tape rotations and to see if your data is protected or if security is being compromised.
3. Make a chart that categorizes the data you're backing up, including the age and file types. This is important, since many companies fail to realize that valuable storage space is being used to back up their staff's personal MP3 files, photos and movies.
4. Check network backups ensure they're accurately backing up all critical files and information.
5. Review your current data protection needs and identify weak areas. Everyone has a different tolerance for risk. Just make sure the data risks you're taking are by choice and not dictated by circumstance.

Depending on what you uncover, your network will either receive a clean bill of health or you could reveal potentially disastrous gaps in your data backup.