Backing Up Isn’t Enough: How to check if your data is truly protected

Are you sure your data back up process is working? Have you tested it?

November 21, 2024

Dear reader

So, you’ve got backups of your servers and computers, great! But here’s the big question: how do you know if they’re actually usable if your systems crash or get hit by a cyber-attack?

We recently started working with a new client who had a major server crash, only to discover that their backup process was faulty. Finally, after many hours working through the night we were able to restore their systems from an old backup, almost a month prior. This caused major disruption to their business as they needed to recapture a month’s worth of documents that had already been processed since the date of the last working backup.

Do you use the 3-2-1 rule for data back ups?

The cost to the customer in loss of productivity and the many hours of overtime to get their operations up to date is immeasurable.

 

When we analysed why there were no workable backups, we found that their system had been sending error notifications, but they had gone to someone who didn’t understand them and so didn’t act.

 

For all of us to learn from this experience, let’s dive into the essentials of data backup best practice: the 3-2-1 Rule of Backups - it’s a straightforward but powerful rule that’s got your back. It’s like a safety net for your data.

 

The 3-2-1 Rule: What Is It, and Why Does It Matter?

The 3-2-1 Rule is designed to help you back up your data with a little structure and a lot more security. Here’s how it goes:

3 x Copies of Your Important Data: That’s your original file and two backup copies.

2 x Different Types of Media: Store your backups on at least two different types of storage (like an external hard drive and a cloud option) just in case one fails.

1 x Off-Site Backup: At least one of these copies needs to be stored off-site in the cloud or at a different physical location. If disaster strikes your office or home, you’ll still have access to your files.

 

Why the 3-2-1 Rule Works So Well

Let’s get real for a second: equipment can fail, disasters happen, and coffee can spill in the most inopportune places. The 3-2-1 Rule is designed to cover your bases no matter what comes your way. By having three copies, two storage types, and one off-site backup, you’re dramatically reducing the chances of losing your data permanently.

 

Extra Tips for Backup Peace of Mind

Schedule Regular Checks to test your backups from time to time to make sure they’re working. It’s not glamorous, but it’s worth it.

Stay Organised: by putting a label on your backups so you know what’s what. Nothing’s worse than sifting through files like they’re lottery numbers.

Automate Where You Can: Many cloud services let you set up automatic backups. It’s like a safety button for your data!

Notifications: Make sure they go to someone who does know what to do or who to ask for help!

 

Final Thoughts

Following the 3-2-1 Rule of Backups doesn’t have to be a headache. Think of it as a little insurance for the precious data you have. Once you’ve set up a solid backup process, you can sleep easy, knowing you’re prepared.

 

Du Pont Solutions are specialists, so if you want to have a chat, then we would love to hear from you. Let's connect and fortify your cyber security approach together!

Kind regards

Graeme Victor

CEO

 [email protected] 

Read previous stories from Du Pont Solutions