Stratégie de sauvegarde 3 2 1

Backing Up Business Data: How to Do It?

Whether it’s to protect against cyberattacks, human errors, or natural disasters, an effective backup strategy ensures the continuity of operations and the security of sensitive information. Belcenter, a leading telecom operator in Belgium, offers Cloud backup solutions tailored to the specific needs of businesses.

Scroll down

This article explores the various aspects of data backup and explains why it’s essential to adopt a robust strategy in 2024.

What is a Backup and How Does It Work?

A backup involves creating a copy of your data to restore it in case of loss or corruption. This process can be performed manually or automatically and generally involves storing the data on a separate medium from that used for daily operations. Backups can be incremental, differential, or full, each with its own advantages in terms of speed and required storage space. With Belcenter’s Cloud backup solutions, businesses can automate this process and ensure their data is constantly protected.

Which Data Should Be Backed Up ?

Not all company data is equal in terms of value or necessity for backup. It is crucial to prioritize critical information such as :

  • Customer databases
  • Financial documents
  • Important emails
  • HR files
  • Ongoing projects.

Belgian companies must also consider local and European data protection regulations, such as GDPR, which impose specific requirements regarding the backup and protection of sensitive information.

To help you understand this issue, here is a video from the Eye on Tech series:

The 3:2:1 Rule

One of the most common rules in backup strategy is the 3-2-1 backup rule, a backup strategy that allows both multiplying the number of media and diversifying the locations where the backup is stored. The idea? If one backup fails, you have other backups to protect and recover your essential data.

Why 3:2:1?

  • 3 Copies: Keep 3 copies of the data, meaning the original data and two additional copies.
  • 2 Media Types: Use two different types of media, typically one on-premises (on-site) storage and another in the cloud.
  • 1 Offsite Copy: At least one copy should be stored in a location far from the operating site to ensure availability in case of failure or disaster.
Stratégie de sauvegarde 3 2 1
Diversifying backup locations: the 3-2-1 rule (Illustration NinjaOne)

Immutable Storage and Backup

Immutable storage is a technology that allows creating data copies that cannot be modified or deleted. This is particularly useful for protection against ransomware attacks, where cybercriminals aim to encrypt or alter data to extort money. With Belcenter’s immutable backup solutions, businesses can ensure their critical data remains intact and available at all times.

Different Types of Backup: On-Site, Cloud

There are primarily two types of backup: on-site and Cloud.

  • On-site backup involves using physical devices such as external hard drives, local servers, or magnetic tapes to store data copies. While this method offers complete control over the data, it poses risks in case of physical disasters at the company’s site.
  • Conversely, Cloud backup, as offered by Belcenter, stores data on remote servers accessible via the Internet. This solution offers greater flexibility, scalability, and enhanced protection against local incidents.

Microsoft 365 Backup

This Microsoft video explains how to back up your company’s Microsoft 365 account.

 

Backup: The Need for Robust Internet Connectivity

For Cloud backups to be effective, robust internet connectivity is essential. A good download speed, ranging from 500 to 1000 Mbps, is necessary to ensure data can be backed up quickly and without interruption. Moreover, upload speed is equally important, especially for initial backups and large data volumes. Therefore, it is recommended to opt for symmetrical speeds, where download and upload speeds are equal. Belcenter offers shared or dedicated fiber optic solutions tailored to the specific needs of businesses, ensuring a stable and fast connection for optimal data protection.

How can we help?