Breaking Down Backups with Managed IT Services

Data backups don't necessarily need to be complicated, but they are critical--and they can often be quite large. As such, it's helpful to have advice from a managed IT services provider when making backup decisions.

Take, for example, the choice between backup types. There are three main options, and each has its strengths and weaknesses:

On-site

On-site data backups exist right in your workplace. This seems like the easiest, most natural option for many businesses because your data is immediately accessible and always within arm's reach. However, local backups also have downsides; for example, if a natural disaster strikes your location, all data--including backups--could be lost.

Off-site

Off-site data backups are stored in a separate location. The downsides of this choice are immediately obvious: With data temporarily out of reach, you'll need a few hours or days to get back online while you wait to retrieve the off-site backup. On the other hand, this approach means your backups will be safe in the event of a natural disaster or other issue impacting your workplace.

Cloud

Cloud backups are, in many ways, the best of both worlds. When you store your data on the cloud, you're using an online server--which is both immediately available and safe from physical damage. For these reasons, cloud backups are often the most efficient and reliable; however, if you should ever need to use them, they can take up a significant portion of your bandwidth as you try to download data.

Conclusion

You have a lot of options when it comes to data backups--like where and how you'll store this data. On-site, off-site, and cloud storage options are all available, but each has its downsides, which means you may need a little help navigating the details.

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