sme online backup options

Title : SME online backup options
Source : http://www.backupanytime.com/whitepaper.htm
Posted : October 08
Copyright : backupanytime original content.
Redistribution as is : No permission required (with credits)
Modification : With written permission from backupanytime.

Small to medium enterprises in the main understand that the decision as to how they should backup data comes down to what level and type of online backup they should employ. There are a number of options to consider here so let's do just that.

Simple online backup.

Simple online backup describes a situation in which a small business (generally a micro business or sole trader) which does not use open file software, SQL or Exchange wants a backup system to place copies of important data in a safe remote location at predefined schedules. This is achieved through the use of encryption and in house broadband to securely send data to a nominated online backup provider. As it's name suggests, this is a simple, non controversial option which should be relatively inexpensive and work reliably with a minimum of required management or interference. The benefits are huge. This system allows an organization with minimal I.T. capital expenditure budget to avail of a world class data backup system.

Advanced online backup.

This is not too dissimilar to simple online backup. The main difference being the requirement for open file management, SQL and exchange support. This allows users of these programs to backup data which is in an open state. Many small business users (sometimes unknowingly) use open state software and this should be discussed with your intended online backup provider so discovery can be made and the technology implemented as required.

Single point online backup.

This type of installation may be of simple or advanced form. Single point online backup is usable in an environment in which all of the business data is accessible from one system. The data may be on that system or a number of devices or system which the appointed system has access to. Single point online backup is most reliable when the data is held on the appointed system as if it needs to look at other systems or locations you are depending on the ongoing availability of these locations for backups to be successful.

Multipoint online backup.

Multipoint online backup may also come in simple or advanced format. Multipoint online backup is an environment in which no single system has the required access to all of the files which are required and therefore the online backup software is installed on a number of systems so all data can be backed up. An example of this in small business would be a payroll system. Most payroll systems do not work across a network and the data is therefore retained on the system used by the payroll administrator. In this case that system would have it's own load of online backup software which would work and report independently of the server online backup.

Mobile worker online backup.

Even in a micro business there is a strong likelihood that laptops will be used. If these are used outside the office and the data on them is required as an online backup inclusion then it may be prudent to provide the laptop with it's own installation. Ultimately this decision will come down to the following:

Frequency of availability of the laptop in the office for backup as part of the office system.

Length of time for which it is available for access by another backup system.

Importance of the data on the laptop.

It is also important to note, that even if you provide the laptop user with his or her own online backup installation, that laptop needs to be online during online backups. Our system does not discriminate between locations so the system can backup from anywhere such as home or a hotel room. All you need is a connection. The user does not have to modify anything. The system will locate it's pre appointed online backup servers and securely backup.

In summary.

SME Online backup doesn't just move you to a remote data scenario. Online backup also moves business from non encrypted format to secure encryption. Online backup moves business away from the ongoing and increased risk of carrying portable media and the eventuality of loss as a consequence of not carrying it.

Online backup may also help with general compliance and will increase customer confidence.

It is likely you have been considering online backup for some time. It is an important decision. Call backupanytime and join Irelands' largest online backup community.

Backupanytime. Your frontline of defense against data loss.