In the era of widely developed computer technology, companies have more and more goods in digital form and store much more data than they used toonly a few years ago. Threats to data security are difficult to eliminate completely, but there are ways to significantly minimize them. This makes it easier to reduce losses that enterprises may suffer as a result of data loss. The foundation of a well implemented IT security policy is the use of backups. A properly made backup copy ensures work continuity, but also the ability to recover data or files in the event of a major failure.
Below are some of the most common data storage methods that meet the diverse needs of enterprises.
1. Online storage
Online storage of data is colloquially called cloud back-up. Currently, it is the simplest and most convinient solution, because it offers quick service and definitely lower prices for internet connections. Companies commonly propose Saas mass storage online (Software as a Service), i.e. software where the application is stored and shared. Besides that, everything is done via the Internet. An undoubted advantage of this solution is also the fact that online storage allows for backups to be done partially and does not involve any investment in advance. Unfortunately, data recovery using this method is more troublesome, because it is more time-consuming, especially when it is necessary to restore all data and files.
2. DAS (Direct Attached Storage)
It is a type of memory that is directly connected to a computer or server via internal or external disks. It consists of two basic layers. The first layer guarantees connectivity between memory nodes and transmission of commands along with information about resources. The second layer is, in turn, a program layer that provides additional services. A definite disadvantage of this solution is the inability to create a full backup. It needs to be created in batches, which means that often the stored files are out of date or outdated.
3. NAS (Network Attached Storage)
NAS is network attached storage, with capabilities similar to those of file servers. It consists of a physical device and data management software. Storage security for copied data is usually guarranteed by the RAID function. It uses two or more hard drives that work together in the computer system. Therefore, NAS memory works as a file server, which can be accessed through the company network. In addition, NAS can operate independently of operating systems and platforms used in the company.
4. Mass storage to protect against critical failure
There are versions of DAS and NAS that protect enterprises against data loss in case of critical situations, such as for instance flooding or fire, when under normal conditions data can be damaged completely. With the potential risk of this type, special devices are used that are able to survive even a fire of a prolonged duration (e.g. several tens of minutes) or flooding that lasts for several days.
5. Backup copy stored in a private cloud
Tihs is a good solution for companies that are afraid of sending data to an external company offering a cloud service. The answer to such fears is the private cloud, which is chosen by many companies that in this way gain efficiency and flexibility. A good example of a solution that work in this way is Transporter. This is a network device connected to disk storage that allows downloading as well as sharing and synchronization of data or files that located on discs of computers, laptops or other Transporters. There are also devices that allow computers to directly connect and synchronize data with other media via the Internet and that encrypt such transmission channels at the same time.
6. Backup copy and offline media
These are mainly tape- and optical-media, such as Blu-ray or DVD, which are used to store offline backups. In many ways, this solution may seem outdated, but one should definitely not give it up completely. Sometimes a device which is not connected to the network can save the data of the company. This was the case even for Google during the failure of Gmail services.
Backup copy should be an absolute priority for every company. There are really many possibilities for creating and storing copies of company data, depending on the needs. Nevertheless, it is always worth using the 2 + 1 method, which involves creating at least two full back-ups of important files and storing them on two separate, independent disks. The third copy should additionally be carefully stored on an offline disk. Such approach will certainly ensure the business continuity without interruptions even in am event of sudden failures or loss of one of the backups.