Langmeier Backup

Most people only recognize the true value of their stored data when a system crash occurs and a significant portion of their information is lost. Unfortunately, it is often at this moment that they also realize their data backup was not performed correctly. By focusing on the most common sources of error in data backup, you can effectively prevent costly data loss. Urs Langmeier, founder and CEO of Langmeier Software, explains which mistakes companies should avoid when backing up their data.

1. Backing Up Data Too Infrequently

Backup intervals should be tailored to your data flow. While a fixed schedule is helpful, it is equally important to respond to special events. For example, if you have made significant changes or discoveries, this is the ideal time to update your backup. Conversely, if there has been no activity for several days, it is unnecessary to back up unchanged data repeatedly.

2. Confusing a RAID System with a Data Backup

RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) systems provide redundancy by storing data across multiple disks. However, they do not protect against all risks, such as network-wide hardware failures or human error. RAID cannot compensate for a complete system crash or physical destruction of your hardware. Therefore, an additional, separate data backup is essential.

3. Storing Backup Copies Too Close to the Originals

A backup is only truly secure if it is stored in a different location from the original data. For companies, it may be sufficient to keep backup devices in a separate fire protection zone from the main servers. Ideally, backups should be stored in a different building to ensure maximum protection.

4. Overwriting Data Too Quickly

Many small businesses use the well-known grandfather-father-son backup principle, which combines daily, weekly, and monthly backups. However, a common pitfall is overwriting daily incremental backups too soon. For instance, Monday’s backup may be overwritten by Thursday’s backup. It is advisable to retain all daily backups until the weekly backup is complete, ensuring a full system restore is possible at the end of the week.

5. Lacking a System Recovery Plan

Restoring your system is often the real challenge after data loss. A robust backup strategy must always include a comprehensive recovery plan. In the event of a software issue, restoring your data should take no longer than a few minutes. Preparation is key to minimizing downtime.

6. Using Inflexible Backup Software

Startups and small businesses often select backup solutions that fit their current data volume. As the company grows, these solutions may quickly reach their limits. While creative administrators can sometimes extend these systems, restoring data from a customized setup can be complex and time-consuming. It is better to choose software from the outset that is scalable and designed to handle future growth.

7. Unclear Responsibilities

When handling sensitive data, clear responsibilities are crucial. Data must be protected from loss and unauthorized access. However, excessive security measures can sometimes result in important information becoming inaccessible. It should always be clear who is responsible for each data area, who knows the necessary passwords, and who can initiate the recovery process. At least two individuals should be assigned these roles to ensure continuity if one person leaves the company. Responsibilities must be transferred promptly to successors.

8. Being Deterred by the Cost of Security

Many companies try to save money—especially on IT infrastructure. Hardware is often purchased as cheaply as possible, and software is installed only once. However, to truly understand the value of a backup, ask yourself: How much would a potential data loss cost us, and how much data loss can we realistically tolerate? The answers usually make it clear: cutting corners on IT security is never worth the risk.

Look it up further: Backup, Data backup, Langmeier Backup, Backup concept, RAID, Restore data, Restore

Related articles

Which 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?

Post a comment here...