Langmeier Backup FAQ

How to back up company data correctly

How can a company ensure secure data backups? How to optimally set up RDX media, NAS backup, and backup processes? Find the answers here. When backing up data, ensure that risks are distributed.

Effective data backup strategies are essential for every company. Data is exposed to a variety of risks, and this should never be underestimated—especially when dealing with valuable or sensitive information. In many countries, companies are also legally required to implement specific security measures to protect their data.

One crucial principle that is often overlooked is that backup media accessible on the network without adequate protection can be targeted by hackers, malicious insiders, or malware. In the worst-case scenario, this data may be deleted or compromised. To mitigate these risks, consider the following solutions.

Use Different RDX Data Carriers as Backup Media

Assign each data carrier a clear name in Windows Explorer, such as “Backup” or the day of the week it is intended for. Rotate these data carriers daily and store them in a secure safe to ensure physical protection. Only connect the data carriers to your server during the backup process to prevent unauthorized access by viruses or hackers.

Always encrypt your backup data with a strong password—at least eight characters, including uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. This ensures that your data remains confidential, even if the physical media is stolen, whether from the office or while in transit. Encryption is especially critical if you transport backup media via public transport.

Create a NAS Backup

Utilize a NAS (Network-Attached Storage) device as your backup destination, or alternatively, designate a dedicated computer within your network as a backup file server. Access this storage only through a protected Samba/UNC network path, and restrict permissions to a specific user account dedicated to backup operations.

For added security, append a $ sign to the network share name to keep it hidden from general network discovery. Avoid mapping network drives for backup disks, as this can make it easier for malware or hackers to exploit the storage. Instead, always access the shared backup folder via its UNC path. This approach provides an additional layer of protection for your data when using NAS backups.

Store Data Off-Site for Additional Security

Mirror your backup data from the primary file server to a NAS device at a secondary location. You can configure this remote NAS backup using a VPN and a network share, or via FTP access. If your data is not already encrypted, ensure you encrypt it with a robust password before transfer. Otherwise, your data could be intercepted during transmission.

Regularly Test Your Backups

Do you still remember the decryption password? Are your backup media functioning correctly, and can you restore data from them without issues? Perform regular, comprehensive bit-by-bit backup checks to verify that all data can be restored successfully and to identify any potential weaknesses in your backup strategy.

Document Your Backup Procedures

Create a detailed manual outlining who is responsible for data backups within your company. Clearly describe the backup and verification processes, and include step-by-step instructions for responding to data loss incidents. This documentation ensures that everyone knows their roles and that your backup strategy remains effective and reliable.

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about the author
Founder and CEO of Langmeier Software


I don't want to complicate anything. I don't want to develop the ultimate business software. I don't want to be listed in a top technology list. Because that's not what business applications are about. It's about making sure your data is seamlessly protected. And it's about making sure everything runs smoothly while you retain full control and can focus on growing your business. Simplicity and reliability are my guiding principles and inspire me every day.
 

Look it up further: Backup, Data Security, NAS backup, Backup media

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This article covers the topics:
How to back up company data correctly
Data backup must be stored off-site
Data backup tips & tricks
Security precautions by law