In 2022, we have a massive amount of data storage services right at our fingertips. From free, local software included on our devices to premium, top-of-the-line cloud storage services that hold up to 15GB of data for free (and a lot more if you pay). Of course, we can't forget the trusty hard drive, the clunky brick you carry around in your bag that acts as a safe haven for your files until you drop it. When it comes to backing up files, safety is often overlooked.

Businesses of all sizes lose an average of $4,500 for every minute of downtime they experience, and often that downtime is a result of data loss. Data loss can occur for a multitude of reasons, such as theft, natural disasters, software corruption, or human error. In addition, you can combat the adverse effects of data loss by creating a backup strategy.

Did you know that March 31 is World Backup Day? Who knew data backup was important enough to get its own day? I didn’t until recently, which may be the case for you as well, but that’s okay. It is never too late to learn about the importance of security practices like backing up data and establishing a routine that includes said practices.

“Hello, my name is Eric, and I am a Backup Nerd.” When spoken during an introduction, that statement might easily be mistaken as insulting or demeaning to myself and others. In some circles, it could easily be interpreted as a call for help or as my acknowledgement (or “first step”) to admitting that I might have a problem. Head Nerd, specifically the backup variety, has been my professional title for the past few years and I fully embrace it.

In this day and age, important business information is more likely found stored on networks and devices than recorded on physical paper. If a disaster strikes and the safety of your data is compromised, having solid backups in place is the key to reduced RTOs (Recovery Time Objective) and having peace of mind. Multiple backup types are available to store and secure your data safely. Let's discuss the different types of backup, their features, and the benefits of each type.

Database backup protects your data by creating a copy of your database locally, or remotely on a backup server. This operation is often performed manually by database administrators. Like every other human-dependent activity, it is susceptible to errors and requires lots of time. Regularly scheduled backups go a long way to safeguarding your customers’ details in the case of operating system failure or security breach.