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When the topic of data backups arises in companies, most managers consider themselves well prepared. The significance of data protection is widely recognized, and protocols for performing regular backups are typically well established. However, when it comes to data recovery, there is often a lack of awareness and planning. Few organizations give sufficient thought to the recovery process itself. Many assume that creating backups is the most critical step. This is a misconception, as the true purpose of every backup is to enable the restoration of data in the event of an emergency. It is important to understand that a successful backup does not automatically guarantee a successful recovery.

The Backup Is Only Half the Battle

Companies face significant risks and potential losses if data is lost, which is why considerable effort is invested in performing regular and thorough backups. However, backing up data is only part of the solution. Recovery tests are often neglected due to time constraints or limited resources. Many rely on the assumption that, because backups are performed regularly, recovery will work when needed. In reality, while it is often possible to restore data from existing backups, if the most recent backup is corrupted or incomplete, organizations may be forced to revert to older, outdated data. Depending on the industry, the difference between restoring yesterday’s data and last week’s data can be critical. In sectors where data changes hourly, even a one-day gap can result in substantial losses.

Plan Restore Tests Conscientiously

It is not sufficient to rely solely on the diligent execution of backups. The main reasons for neglecting restore tests are almost always the same: lack of time or specialized personnel. While each department may follow strict backup schedules, there is often no provision for the most crucial step—the recovery test. This oversight can have serious consequences the next time data loss occurs. Company management should be fully aware of this risk and take appropriate measures. As Marcel Binder from BIG IT Systems GmbH emphasizes, “Backup tests should be established as a standard process in companies, because recovery must not be neglected. The first step is to verify the requirements for recovery. Very few organizations consider how quickly a restore must be completed in a crisis.”

A Simple Checklist Supports the Recovery Test

The solution is both straightforward and effective: just as companies develop backup plans and protocols, they must also establish a comprehensive recovery plan. This should include regular, random recovery tests using the most recent backup data. Personnel responsible for recovery should routinely follow a data backup checklist, documenting the execution of recovery tests and recording any errors encountered. At a minimum, this process should involve reviewing the backup logs of the latest backup and performing a random restore test. To assist you, we have created a practical checklist, which you can download at the end of this article. It is essential to conduct restore tests as regularly and conscientiously as the backups themselves. After all, backup copies that cannot be restored are of little value in an emergency.

Documents:
Backup checklist

Look it up further: Restore data, Restore, Backup

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