All You Need to Know About Remote Backup Services

All You Need to Know About Remote Backup Services

One of the best ways to prevent data loss or corruption is to use a remote backup service. Whatever the cause of a hard drive failure or data loss, remote backup can help you quickly restore the affected data.

There are a number of potential causes of data loss, including human error, malicious software like viruses, and natural disasters like floods and fires. By connecting a remote backup solution to your systems, you can rest easy knowing that your business will continue to operate normally in the event of a data disaster, freeing up valuable time and resources to concentrate on what you do best.

What is Remote Backup?

To back up data to a remote server is the purpose of remote backup. Servers located elsewhere can be thought of as, but these days it’s more common for them to reside in the cloud.

Once set up, your remote backup service will make encrypted copies of all data on all connected drives and devices, storing them safely in the cloud until you need to restore them.

You can rest assured that vital data is safe with remote backups because they can be set to run automatically, relieving you of the burden of managing a complicated IT process. Most of these services are subscription-based, meaning that you pay a regular fee in exchange for access to the backup software and cloud storage.

Businesses of all shapes and sizes rely on remote backup as an integral part of their disaster recovery plans (DRPs).

How Do Remote Backup Services Work?

Easy accessibility is a key feature of modern remote backup systems. After the solution has been installed and set up, it operates silently in the background.

The backup service will make a complete copy of the source device, drive, or system when it is first set up. Before sending the backup to the cloud, it is encrypted using the most up-to-date security protocols.

A copy of the data is made and kept in the cloud until it is required. In the event of data loss and restoration, you can log in to your vault, retrieve the backup, and start the restoration process.

Even though each backup service has its own quirks, the vast majority of them will let you restore individual files, folders, or even the entire backup if need be.

Because the data restoration is performed online, a reliable Internet connection is required. Restore operations may fail to finish or take a very long time to complete if the connection speed is low or unreliable. You won’t be able to finish the job until electricity and internet are restored.

How Secure Are Remote Backup Services?

If you’re concerned about the safety of your remote backup, keep in mind that it uses remote servers and an internet connection to do its job. On the other hand, there are many good reasons why the cloud is the safest place for your data.

Considering the prevalence of ransomware and other malicious attacks in today’s threat landscape, cloud backups are highly recommended.

Cloud service providers take great care to safeguard their customers’ information while it is in transit and at rest by installing the latest security measures. You probably wouldn’t be able to match the security offered by modern cloud backup services even if you had a full-time cybersecurity team on staff.

By opting for remote backup, you can rest assured that you will always have access to cutting-edge security without the added cost or hassle. It’s just good business sense!

Only approved users will be able to access the remote backup when the time comes. Multi-factor authentication can be activated to further fortify security beyond the conventional username/password combination.

Data stored in the cloud is encrypted, so even if a malicious actor gained access to the cloud, they would be unable to access your data without the proper decryption key. The reason it’s called a vault is because only those with the proper credentials can gain entry.

Automated vs Manual Remote Backup

Manual backups may be performed in a variety of ways depending on the provider, but they always necessitate the company’s active participation. Data backups, for instance, can be run by staff members on predetermined schedules or whenever they’re deemed necessary.

There are many more factors to think about when performing remote backups manually, such as which files need to be backed up, what kind of storage system to use, whether the data will be stored locally or remotely, how often backups should be performed, etc. Companies that opt to download and copy all of their data to a storage device face an even more complicated and time-consuming process.

Automatic remote data backups require much less intervention. The customer simply needs to choose a backup frequency that works for their company, and the service will handle everything else. Most businesses believe that automated backups are the most efficient method of data protection.

Automated data backups have many benefits, including speed, security, and an easier data recovery process management and execution. On the other hand, some businesses favor a hybrid approach, employing both automated and human-led safeguards. You can’t afford to wait until after a major update has been made to your website if, for instance, you normally back it up at the end of every week using automated backups but are planning on making the update in the middle of the week. For reasons of regulatory compliance and internal auditability, other businesses must rely on manual backups.

Why is Remote Backup Important for Business?

With remote data backups, you can use the Internet to send a copy of your data to another, more secure location. Since the data is being stored offsite, it is safe in the event that your building and local network are destroyed by an act of nature or man.

The potential for human error is mitigated when remote backups are carried out automatically on a predetermined schedule. It also implies that, once the system has been implemented, very little in the way of additional resources will be needed. In addition, files can be automatically synchronized on a predetermined schedule, meaning that only recently modified files are backed up.

The most crucial data, such as employee records, customer orders, tax documents, leases, and more, are backed up offsite, which is why so many companies choose to use remote data backups. Data can be easily and quickly recovered in the event of a loss, protecting operations and keeping customers satisfied.

Pros and Cons of Remote Backup Services

However, not every business should use remote backup even though there are many potential advantages.

Remote Backup Pros

Some arguments in favor of storing backups in the cloud include the following:

User-Friendly

After setting up your online backup software, you can forget about it until it’s time to restore your data. The most effective remote backup systems are those which can be used by practically anyone, regardless of their familiarity with technology.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your data is safe and accessible in case of an emergency will help you rest easier at night.

No Hardware to Buy or Maintain

Using a cloud-based backup service eliminates the need to buy new equipment and minimizes the amount of desk space it takes up.

Protection Against Cyber Threats

While online backups can’t stop cybercriminals, they can help you get back up and running quickly if something does go wrong.

Scalable to Your Needs

Your online backup solution should grow with your data storage needs.

Predictable Expense

The monthly fee for your remote backup service will be fixed, and you won’t have to worry about rising IT expenses.

Remote Backup Cons

Here are some questions to ask yourself before committing to a remote backup service.

It works over the Internet.

Of course, having access to the internet is also beneficial; however, if you live in a remote area or an area with spotty Internet, this could pose a problem in terms of backup services. It’s possible that your online backup will take a long time to finish, and that restoring from it will take just as long. Your backups will be inaccessible until Internet service is restored.

If your storage needs snowball, so will the cost.

A predetermined amount of cloud space is included in your plan, but more space can be purchased at an additional cost. If the price seems too high, reconsider.

Sometimes it can be difficult to decide on a cloud backup service. There are numerous suppliers from which to choose, each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages in relation to the value they offer.

One thing, however, is not open to discussion: having a backup service. Also, we’ll assist you in reducing the number of potential candidates. To ensure your company’s safety, read on for advice on how to select the most suitable backup service.

What is a Backup Service?

Data backup is handled by the backup service. The backup service, as its name implies, is automated, so once your preferences have been set, the process continues in the background without any further input from you. A backup service can be used manually as an alternative. The majority of people and businesses, however, have discovered that automation reduces workloads and frees them up for more important tasks.

Businesses rely on backup services to keep their data safe in the event of data corruption or a natural disaster. If you need to restore a single file or your entire system, you can do so quickly and easily with the help of a backup service that stores your data remotely in the cloud and makes it available via the internet.

How do Backup Services Work?

Data backup services are programs that can be installed on your computer(s), network(s), or other electronic storage medium(s). Depending on the capabilities of the backup service, your needs, and the settings you’ve selected, the app will create a copy of your data at predetermined intervals, usually once every 24 hours. The encrypted copies are then uploaded to the cloud, where they will remain safe until they are needed.

The online backup can usually be configured to send only changed data since the last backup. Saving time and money on cloud storage (where your backup data will be stored) is possible with this method. It also facilitates data restoration, which is essential because a backup is useless if it cannot be used to bring back original data.

Benefits of Backup Services

Data backup services, also known as cloud backup services or online backup, offer numerous advantages to businesses and individuals. The primary benefit of data backup services is that they serve as a solid safety net in the event of a data catastrophe.

The loss of data occurs frequently and is not always the result of malicious intent. Experts estimate that more than 90% of data breaches involve “the human factor,” or human error.

Malware like ransomware, uploading corrupted CSV files, incompatible or buggy third-party apps, device loss/theft/vandalism, and natural disasters like fires, floods, power outages, and extreme weather are also potential causes of data loss.

Services that back up your data guarantee that you can quickly recover lost data and systems. They help you save time by automating the process, and you can access your data from any location with an internet connection, thanks to cloud storage.

Services with a backup plan in place are crucial to the smooth operation of any business. They can keep their employees productive and their brand’s image strong while giving their customers peace of mind thanks to cloud backup services.

7 Things to Look for in a Backup Service

There are a few essential components that all reliable cloud-based backup services must have. Some are tailored to meet the requirements of very specific fields, such as online retail, finance, or computer programming.

If you’re looking for a data backup service, the process can be simplified by keeping in mind the following seven criteria.

1. User-Friendly

Decide on a data backup solution that even the least tech-savvy employee can understand and use. When a disaster occurs, restoring your data should be a quick and easy process so you can get back to work as soon as possible.

2. Flexible Scheduling

As your business evolves, so will your requirements. Your data backup service should give you a lot of leeway in terms of when and how often you can perform backups. Continuous backups are essential for businesses that process large amounts of data, such as banks and online retailers. A consultancy that does not process a lot of data, on the other hand, may only need weekly or daily backups. Some people might prefer a manual backup option.

3. Know What it Does (and Doesn’t) Back Up

Your company most likely generates a variety of metafields and file structurea lottypes of information to be collected. Knowing what a backup service does and does not back up is crucial before signing up. Some APIs, like those used by e-commerce platforms, don’t give outsiders access to private information like users’ passwords.

When looking into backup services, don’t be afraid to ask for technical specifications regarding what can be backed up. It might be time to look elsewhere for a backup service if it doesn’t provide this information easily.

4. Data Security and Compliance

An important perk of using an online backup service is getting access to cutting-edge encryption and security tools for your data. Of course, before committing to a cloud backup service, you should inquire as to the specifics of how and where your data will be stored. It is your responsibility to ensure that your third-party vendors are in compliance with modern data privacy legislation like GDPR, which places strict requirements on how and where data can be stored.

5. Monthly Cost

Subscription-based software as a service, or SaaS, online backup services require a recurring monthly payment. To avoid blindly selecting the cheapest alternative, think about the features you really need and how they compare to the price. Consistency in operations is key, and assurance like that is priceless.

6. Storage Costs

There are many factors to consider when it comes to backup storage, including the size of your backups, the amount of data you’re backing up, and the length of time you’ll need to keep your backups. The price of your backup service might go up if you need to keep a lot of data on hand because of the magnitude of your data processing. Know the data limits of your backup service and storage plan, and make sure they fit into your budget.

7. Scalability

Rapid expansion is possible at times, but you can always succeed if you plan ahead. Pick an online backup service that can scale as your needs do, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Rewind Backup Services for SaaS Applications

The data backup services offered by Rewind are flexible enough to adapt to the changing needs of any business. Versions of our cloud backup service have been developed with a number of well-known SaaS programs in mind, including Trello, QuickBooks Online, Shopify, BigCommerce, GitHub, and many others. But don’t just take our word for it; check out the testimonials of our 100,000 satisfied clients.

For what it’s worth, then? Your company’s ability to maintain operations and recover from disaster depends on your choice of backup service provider. Information is the lifeblood of any business, and you can never be too careful with it.

Remote Backup Services Features You Need to Pay Attention To

The capabilities of various cloud-based backup services vary. Here are some of the most important functions of a reliable cloud-based backup service.

  • Scheduling for Contingencies. Having a remote backup service means you don’t have to worry about any of the grunt work yourself. While frequent backup is essential for some businesses, such as those providing online financial services or running an online store, others, such as smaller ones, may not. If you want to get the most out of your online backup service, it’s important that you’re able to customize it to your specific needs.
  • In what ways can damage be repaired? To make sure the restore process is manageable, you should consider who will be in charge of it.
  • And if you do develop, what then? While it’s always good to be ready for anything, it’s important to know what happens to the cost of your cloud storage if you exceed your allotted space.
  • In whose hands is the safety of the cloud service provider? Having a plan in place to recover from a disaster is essential for any business. Determine what would happen to your copies of data if your primary data centers were attacked or destroyed.
  • Does the provider have a good track record? Check the online backup provider’s uptime reliability and make sure it matches the guarantees it makes. The first place to look would be at various online review sites.
  • Attending to the needs of one’s clientele. Make sure you are familiar with the company’s process for providing customer service and support and that it meets your needs. What kinds of customer service contact options do they have, such as phone, chat, email, and IM? The number of hours they put in for the community is important to know.

We trust that this article has helped you better understand remote backup services and how they can safeguard your company. Why not give Rewind a try if hands-free backup is something you’re interested in? Over 100,000 companies rely on them as their primary provider of remote backup solutions for e-commerce, development, accounting, and productivity.