Data loss can happen to anyone. For many businesses and organizations, data is the heart and center of daily operations. We've discussed the importance of taking a proactive vs. reactive approach when it comes to your technology. Preparing for loss is the first step in protecting your data.
Here are a few proactive approaches to keeping your data safe:
1. Antivirus and Firewalls
Ensure antivirus software is loaded onto your PC and enabled to scan for viruses in real time, as well as a weekly scheduled full system scan. The best time to schedule a full scan is when the computer is left on but has no user interaction. If you run a business of any size, having a good firewall in place prevents employees from entering websites that are not trusted.
2. Update software when prompted
Always enable operating system and software updates. Software companies frequently push out bug fixes and vulnerability patches. Always update your system or software when prompted sooner than later.
3. Use cloud storage
You can back up your files in the cloud. Apple users can use iCloud to link all of their Apple devices. Other recommended alternatives for cloud based services are DropBox, Amazon Drive (Prime users get 5GB of free storage), Google Drive (users get 15GB of free storage to start), Microsoft OneDrive (a nice option for users who already use several Microsoft products), and Box.com (new users get 10GB of free storage to start).
4. Invest in an external hard drive
If you're hesitant about backing up to the cloud, or looking for some additional backup, investing in an external hard drive is worth the cost. External hard drives nowadays offer more storage, and they're easier to take on the go -- some are the size of a deck of cards! External hard drives can size anywhere from 80GB to 16TB, and cost between $20 and $900, depending on size.
Backups have the unique ability to be restored not only to the existing hardware, but also to new hardware or virtual hardware hosted in the cloud. This technology minimizes downtime and disruption to your business operation and protects against various scenarios ranging from simple data loss to complete catastrophic failures. As part of Bedrock Technology's proactive approach, we complete quarterly backup images and restoration procedures.