Avoiding Data Loss Through the 3-2-1 Backup Rule

Aug

Few things can be more frustrating than losing your data. Data loss can be something as irritating as losing saved video game data or as detrimental as losing important business documents. Thankfully, with technological advancements, there is a rule that can help you avoid data loss of any kind. 

What Is the 3-2-1 Backup Rule?

The 3-2-1 backup rule is a data storing strategy that involves keeping three separate copies of a certain piece of data. These three copies should all be stored in different locations, with two being stored onsite and one being stored offsite. Diversification of storage decreases the chance of losing data, even in freak occurrences. 

What Is Onsite Storage?

Onsite storage refers to keeping your data in a local storage device or a device in your home or business. Examples of onsite storage devices can be hard drives, USB devices, or a second computer. Onsite storage allows you to physically access data in the event of a network crash. 

Why Have Two Onsite Storage Backups?

Two is better than one! In the event of a network crash or cloud server failure, onsite storage backups can be vital for the timely retrieval of documents and data. We recommend having more than one onsite storage backup, as onsite storage devices are susceptible to failure as well. USB devices can be easily lost, hard drives can malfunction, and second computers or tablets are very susceptible to having coffee spilled on them! Having two or more onsite storage backups provides you with more safety and greater peace of mind, but remember to store these separately from each other. 

What Is Offsite Storage?

Offsite storage refers to data storage that occurs in a location physically outside of your business. The most common and safe mode of offsite storage is to utilize a cloud backup service. Cloud services offer you a variety of benefits, including massive amounts of storage space, they are easily upgradeable, there is accessibility from anywhere where there is internet access, and they have the ability to provide access to multiple individuals at once. 

Having a cloud backup service will not only allow you to be even more certain that your data won’t be lost, but it is also a great way to share data if you are operating a business. 

A Never-Ending Process

Backing up your data is a continuous process. In our increasingly digital world, you are always collecting important data, whether this is family pictures on your iPhone or tax documents for your business. As a result, it is vital that you continually backup your data. Backing up your data in three separate locations allows you to ensure that your data remains safe and readily available should there be an unfortunate situation involving the backing up of data. 

Keeping Your Business Connected

Data storage and network connectivity are two vital aspects of the modern business landscape. At LightWave Networks, we provide data centers to Boston, Dallas, Philadelphia, & New Jersey, with customized colocation and cloud server solutions. Contact us today to improve your business’ network solutions and services. 

Related Readings:

Will 5G Technology Have an Effect on Your Business?

How Cloud Computing Can Benefit Your Business


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