Testing Your Backups – The Fix
Depending on which operating system you are using, there are programs you can use to create secure backups of your business data. With this in mind, Windows does come with a Backup and Restore Centre to assist with automated backups to an external hard drive. You can access it by typing ‘backup and restore’ in the search box in the start menu.
macOS also comes with a built-in backup program called Time Machine. This backup feature automatically backs up your personal data. This includes protecting your apps, music, photos, email, and documents. Having a backup allows you to recover files that were deleted, or that were lost because the hard disk (or SSD) in your Mac needed to be erased or replaced. You can navigate to it through System Preferences > Time Machine > Select Backup Disk.
Using Backups
Given these points, using off-site backup solutions is another option for you. For example, some well-known services are Nerds Backup, Carbonite, or Backblaze. These solutions can be used as your primary backup solution or in conjunction with your local backup process.
Testing Your Backups
Actually, whichever backup solution you choose, take some time once in a while to ensure the files work.
Do not make a mistake and just assume they do. This is especially important if you use the same external hard drive for more than one computer. This increases the chances of a virus making its way to the backup drive. With off-site backups, the likelihood of infection is less likely, but it is still a good idea to check.
Words of Wisdom
Not too long ago, Megabite did a blog post on why data backups are essential for your crisis management. We are a firm believer in the 3-2-1 rule when it comes to computers. Your hard drive will die – usually when you are least prepared to deal with the fallout.
Why not contact us and let us work with you to establish a workable maintenance schedule that ensures that you are testing your backups adequately. To start with, we recommend the following:
* Have at least three copies of your data.
* Store the copies on two different media platforms.
* Keep one backup copy offsite.
Categorised in: Technology Information
This post was written by Megabite
