In the digital age, nearly all companies rely upon data for every facet of business. Whether it be personnel records, internal systems, or proprietary documentation—every organizational function is focused around data in one capacity or another. In fact, as digital transformation initiatives mature, data volumes explode, forcing companies to focus on creating viable backup strategies in order to recover assets if they are lost. Companies must do everything in their power to protect this valuable information at all costs.

Data breaches, natural disasters, and system failures are just a few of the ways primary data sources may become lost or compromised. Security breaches, in particular, have left companies severely vulnerable in recent years. One report even found that 60% of small businesses shut down operations within six months of a cyber attack.

Many companies believe having one data backup source is enough to ensure protection. While this may have been the case several years ago—creating and diversifying data backup sources is now more crucial than ever before. Implementing a structured approach can provide peace of mind while safeguarding digital assets.

One actionable approach to take is the 3-2-1 backup strategy. Utilizing this actionable plan can help provide additional layers of much-needed data protection.

Why is the 3-2-1 Backup Strategy Important?

It’s common to see companies with pieces of this strategy in place but many are missing certain elements. The 3-2-1 backup strategy helps protect your business by using multiple data sources stored at different sites. Diversification of backups can minimize the risk of data loss in the event of a disaster or breach. Without all of the elements in place, you may not be able to recover the data in an emergency.

Implementation of 3-2-1 requires a few guidelines to abide by including:

1. Having at least three (3) separate copies of data: This should consist of the original source along with two additional backups.
2. Using two (2) different storage devices for data backups: Keeping all data on identical devices has a higher probability of failure compared to using dissimilar storage options. If data was stored on a computer’s internal hard drive, a cloud-based option may provide an alternative storage mechanism.
3. Storing one (1) data backup at an offsite location: Storing all backups at a single location can be risky in the event of natural disasters or emergencies. Maintaining an offsite backup at a secure location can provide an additional barrier of data protection and is the only sure way to be able to restore your data if all other methods fail.

The 3-2-1 backup plan safeguards companies from potentially devastating data loss. Applying these guidelines can protect businesses from possible hacks, natural disasters, theft, and more.

Having multiple backup systems is vital to maintaining protection in times of distress. While no backup strategy is 100% full-proof, the 3-2-1 three-pronged approach helps to minimize threats while keeping data integrity intact.

Data backup strategies are often considered an afterthought—until it’s too late. Keeping complete, up-to-date, uncorrupted backups helps protect valuable company assets from destruction and compromise.

Well-thought out backup strategies provide the best defense against disastrous circumstances. Creating a viable plan can be difficult without the right mechanisms in place—that’s where TBConsulting can help.

Using TBConsulting to Manage Your Data Backups

Keeping your company’s data protected is crucial for maintaining business operations under any circumstances. Breaches, system failures, and natural disasters can all leave your company’s data vulnerable. Maintaining backup systems is a mundane task and can become a challenge if you’re not adequately prepared.

Stop hoping your outdated data backup strategies are enough to keep you protected in the event of a data emergency. Enlist the help of a reputable third-party with the knowledge and capacity to protect your data against any viable enemies.

TBConsulting provides fully managed backup solutions with virtualization agnostic backups, reporting, recovery verification, and 24/7 support. Our solutions assist clients in creating comprehensive data backups to help ensure data is available regardless of circumstances. We help our clients manage the mundane tasks so their internal resources can focus on strategic business initiatives.

If you would like additional information on how TBConsulting can improve your current backup strategy, feel free to reach out for a free consultation. Our team of knowledgeable experts can help guide your business to solutions needed to safeguard your company.