You’ve made an investment in a BDR system, and as a result, you can now enjoy more peaceful nights. However, it’s important to note that the hardware alone is just one component of the solution. To guarantee uninterrupted operations, you should also prioritize a provider who conducts preventative maintenance, regular testing, utilizes multi-location storage, and offers comprehensive staff training. Having these essential elements in place will be instrumental in minimizing downtime in case of unforeseen disasters.
- Preventative Maintenance: Beyond the hardware component, a robust backup solution incorporates its own redundancy mechanisms such as backup generators, secondary batteries, efficient cooling systems, fire detection and suppression systems, and redundant cloud storage. While you may not have the opportunity to physically inspect your provider’s facilities, you can gain valuable insights by carefully reviewing the details within your contracts and engaging in meaningful discussions with prospective service providers.
- Periodic Testing: Consistently maintaining the optimal functioning of your system not only grants you peace of mind but also establishes the foundation for a successful backup strategy. This involves more than just testing backup software or assessing cloud storage. A reputable backup provider will conduct routine tests and furnish you with comprehensive reports detailing the backup’s health, size, and any potential glitches. Furthermore, this testing should encompass continuous 24/7 monitoring and prompt alerts for any potential issues, including cybersecurity threats or downtime.
- Multi-Location Storage: No matter how secure a location may appear, it’s essential to store your data in multiple locations. Consider this scenario: if your company’s backup server is situated in an area prone to seasonal hurricanes or is positioned atop an active earthquake fault, your data remains at risk. The key is to create backups for your backups.
- Team Training: Don’t solely rely on your IT company. When it comes to matters of backup and security, it’s crucial to recognize that employees can be the weakest links. Cybercriminals often target individuals rather than attempting to breach the network because it’s typically easier to infiltrate. To mitigate these potential vulnerabilities, ensure that all employees undergo regular cybersecurity training. Building a robust disaster recovery plan is not solely centered on recovery; prevention is equally significant.
