Running a business creates a lot of valuable data. So valuable in fact, that losing access to it could halt operations. Until recently, businesses dealt with this by backing up files to CDs, thumb drives, and external hard drives that were located in the office. Today, cloud backups are considered more accessible and secure, but there are exceptions.
Local data backup vs. cloud backup
Local backup refers to the method of storing and retrieving files on a storage device that you have physical access to. Among the most common devices used in this type of backup are CDs, thumb drives, and hard drives. This tried-and-tested backup solution has been used for decades.
Local backup solutions are especially good at dealing with ransomware and other cyberattacks because they’re disconnected from the network. You can ensure everything is organized and cost-efficient by using data reduction features such as deduplication, which automatically combines or archives multiple versions of the same file on a backup device.
Cloud backups store data on servers that are far from your physical location but easy to connect to via the internet. These remote servers are maintained by a service provider, who charges clients based on various factors such as capacity, bandwidth, and the number of users. With cloud backups, users can create, edit, store, and retrieve data wherever and whenever, as long as they have an internet connection.
Backup solutions comparison
Although people used to worry about the security of cloud solutions or the bandwidth requirements, these concerns have been totally resolved. With those out of the way, businesses are experiencing unprecedented simplicity and scale. Users can access files from virtually anywhere using smartphones, tablets, or laptops. This isn’t an option with local backups, which require a physical connection to the drives where files are stored.
Another advantage of cloud backups over local backups is that the data is safe from local disasters such as fires, floods, and power outages. Your files are stored in a secure facility that is also protected from theft and common hardware failures by a team of certified technicians.
Investing in your own backup hardware and software starts around a few thousand dollars for a team of 10-15 employees. Much larger than that and costs will break into the five figures. You’d be shouldering the cost of the actual storage devices or servers as well as related expenses, which include the maintenance, upgrades, and power consumption of these systems.
Cloud storage is much easier to budget for. Clients simply pay an all-inclusive monthly fee for storage, security, and maintenance. Hardware is totally eliminated from the picture.
Some people avoid migrating to the cloud because they’re concerned about how painful the transition will be. It’s true that a long list of variables needs to be considered but cloud service providers like Safebit Solutions offer a managed migration plan.
A customized backup solution
For businesses that lack the resources needed for elaborate on-site storage systems, cloud storage is the ideal option. It’s inexpensive and doesn’t require any in-house management once the system is in place.
Even companies with their own data centers usually opt for hybrid solutions, which combine local and cloud backup platforms. This combination offers both the accessibility of cloud storage and insurance against data loss should either backup solution encounter complications.
Safebit Solutions provides advanced yet affordable technology solutions and round-the-clock support. If you’d like to learn more about which backup solution is best for your business, call our IT specialists at 281-502-2582. Or, download our free e-book, Demystifying the Cloud: What it is and why you should care if you’re interested in cloud solutions and need more background information.
