1. What data should be backed up?

   Simple answer - your most critical information. Normally this comprises information relating to the operation of core business - accounting/finance, ERP systems, CRM databases, HR to list a few examples.

   A good starting point is to list key business functions in the organisation and assign priorities for their importance.

   "If we had a fire today that wiped out everything, what information is critical to get the business back up and running in the shortest amount of time?"

2. What kind of backup for which type of data?

   There are many options for data backup and retrieval for servers and workstations. Which type of backup you select depends on the kind of data that you want to backup. For instance, some applications have specific reqiurements on how they are backed up and restored.
   For example, the following applications require specialised backup methods:

   • Microsoft Exchange®
   • Microsoft SQL server®
   • Microsoft Sharepoint®
   • Oracle®
   • Interbase databases
   • ACT databases

   If information is static and rarely changes such as artwork or diagrams, then archiving this data away from the primary backup may be the best long-term solution.

   For information that frequently changes such as email, spreadsheets or documents online backup may be a better solution.

   Online backup such as CyberSecure keeps previous versions of your files and documents allowing you to retrieve data from a specific date or a range of dates.

   The offsite protection afforded by CyberSecure also gives you complete protection from any fire, theft or accidental mishap you may have onsite with your backups.

   The key to any backup is to ensure that it is automatcally scheduled and notifies you of any errors, otherwise the integrity of the backup system will eventually fail.

3. Verify, test and restore the backup

   Testing and verifying the backup is perhaps the most neglected step in the data protection process. This step is a necessary evil and is often simply not done because of the cost and time. Here are some best practices that should followed for any backup solution:

   • Daily - checking of the backup reports to ensure they were successful
   • Weekly - verify by actually going into the software's restore view and checking that key files are indeed included in the backup and their dates/times are correct.
   • Quarterly - test restoring three different types of files from the backup, such as the admin mailbox, a word file and an excel spreadsheet. Select different dates for each file to ensure past versions of backups are working.
   • Annually - complete a full system restore to a blank hard drive or server to ensure that the backup system is foolproof.

4. Regulatory compliance

   Be sure to check with appropriate authorities to keep up to date with the regulatory requirements for your industry. Some industries have very specific (and strict) requirements for data backups and retention, with heavy fines incurred for non-compliance.

CyberSecure can help

CyberSecure's backup & recovery solutions are designed to simplify the management of your data protection.

As part of a layered security strategy, it is important to store your critical company data offsite. Natural disasters, fire, theft or equipment failure can cause a severe disruption in your business.

For continuity purposes, you must be able to quickly recover your key data so you can get back to business.

Related content

• Statistics on data loss
• Traditional backup methods