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Data backup IT baseline protection: How to do it right.
![]() In its IT Baseline Protection Catalogs, the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) provides comprehensive guidelines to help companies establish a secure IT environment. These guidelines focus on identifying common risks that can be recognized by non-experts and, if necessary, addressed with the support of specialists. This approach enables organizations without extensive technical expertise to implement effective basic IT protection with relatively little effort. However, it is important to note that this level of protection does not cover every possible scenario and may not be sufficient for companies with exceptionally high security requirements. Data Backup: Essential for Every CompanyMany decision-makers are often unaware of the specific security requirements their organizations face. This is particularly true when it comes to data backup, which is not only essential for operational continuity but also a legal requirement for commercial IT systems, especially for fiscal compliance. To better assess the risks associated with potential data loss, the BSI recommends that every company address several fundamental questions. Is There a Backup Strategy in Place?Given the complexity of modern IT infrastructures, it is no longer sufficient to simply copy selected files to arbitrary storage devices. Instead, it is vital to ensure that a comprehensive and regular data backup is performed to guarantee the recovery of all critical components in the event of an emergency. Developing a clear backup strategy is highly recommended. This strategy should define which data needs to be backed up, how frequently backups should occur, and where the backups will be stored. For example, physical backups can be outsourced to certified cloud providers, adding an extra layer of security and flexibility. Has It Been Defined Which Data Is Backed Up and for How Long?Not all data holds the same level of importance. Similar to traditional paper archives, some information can be deleted after a certain period, while other data must be retained for extended periods as legal or business evidence. Since this can result in large volumes of stored data, it is crucial to establish clear policies regarding data retention and deletion. Special attention should be paid to personal customer data, as its deletion may be subject to strict data protection regulations. Does the Backup Include Portable Devices and Non-Networked Systems?Few companies today rely solely on desktop systems. Employees working remotely or in specific departments—such as logistics or field service—often use mobile devices and laptops that may not always be connected to the corporate network. It is essential not to overlook these devices when planning your backup strategy. Regular synchronization is strongly recommended to ensure that no critical data or processes are lost. Are Backup Media Regularly Tested?Many organizations still use backup tapes as part of their data protection strategy. Regardless of the storage medium—be it tapes, hard drives, or optical discs—it is imperative to conduct regular checks to verify that the media remain functional. After all, even the most thorough backup is useless if the data cannot be restored due to faulty media. Implementing redundancy, such as creating additional copies on alternative media or in secure cloud storage, can further enhance data security. Are Backup and Restore Procedures Properly Documented?All backup and restore processes should be thoroughly documented to ensure traceability at any time. Proper documentation not only streamlines the organizational structure of your backup strategy but also serves as evidence of compliance with data protection measures. This can be particularly beneficial in the event of insurance claims or inquiries from financial and regulatory authorities. Furthermore, comprehensive documentation simplifies troubleshooting and helps resolve technical issues more efficiently. © langmeierbackup.php Look it up further: Backup, Data backup, Data Security, Langmeier Backup, Backing up data, Cloud backup Related articlesWhich type of backup is the best choice for my data?This is how important data backup is in real life FAT32 or NTFS? Which format is better for backups? This article covers the topics:Data backup in IT baseline protectionCloud backup ISO/IEC 27001 BSI BSI basic protection backup BSI basic protection "Backup & data protection" |
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