Coffee Shop Goss Banora Point > Kirra Beach - May 2014 | Page 5

TECHNOLOGY
Backup, backup, backup
Computer systems have not only
become an integral part of our daily life,
but they have also become the primary
method for most people to process and
store data. Protecting data is essential
because failures and losses can be very
costly. All computer users, from home
users to professionals, should back up
critical data they have on their desktops,
laptops, servers, and mobile devices to
protect it from loss or corruption.
A common occurrence I see is people
who are ignorant and/or complacent
with their backups. Most have backups,
but neglect to test them regularly.
Another issue arises from people and
business having no plan on data
restoration and business continuation
once a disaster has occurred.
A backup policy depends on the
importance of the information, and
the acceptable risk to the data owner.
The first step in formulating a sound
backup strategy is to understand your
system requirements. Create a welldocumented backup policy describing
how often to back up, and what exactly
to back up. (Having a Disaster Recovery
& Business Continuity Plan is also highly
recommended).
Whatever backup options you choose,
remember to follow the 3-2-1 rule of
backups:
3. Keep 3 copies of any important file: 1
primary and 2 backups.
2. Keep the files on 2 different media
types to protect against different
types of hazards.
1. Store 1 copy offsite (e.g., outside your
home or business).
Got technical challenges and need
help with your Computer, Tablet, or
Smartphone? Call Ian Piggott from
Computer Life on 0451 526 207.
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