Data Backup Company

All types of businesses can make use of data backup services to ensure that their customer and client information is safe and accessible. Sometimes businesses need to store financial records for years, and they just can't afford the physical space for files. A small business may not have the hard drive space to keep past client information, but they still need to keep it somewhere. The good news is that there are companies out there that will remotely store this digital information so that businesses can still have access to it. Whether the business is small or large, in one office or multiple offices, or needs to backup numerous files or just a few, these special services will often tailor their products to the needs of the business while also offering great customer service. Of course, careful comparing and researching are required to find just the right one for the right price.

Before computers offered the ability to use a data backup company, businesses would typically keep paper files. This type of physical storage of information comes with several problems: vulnerability to the elements, lack of security, and space issues. Paper, if not stored in a fire-safe and waterproof cabinet, can be easily destroyed should a fire or flood occur. Locked, metal filing cabinets are secure, but anyone with a key (or a crowbar) can gain access. Worst of all, paper files need more and more space to be stored in. Medical facilities, which maintain files from as far back as ten years, must rent out storage facilities to keep these files accessible. Thus, paper files can be expensive to create and store over time.

"Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?" (Proverbs 6:27). Not having data backup services can be a lot like playing with fire and expecting not to get burned. This is why so many businesses choose to avoid the problems that come with traditional file storage. With a backup company, there is no need to keep paper documents. These can be scanned and kept in digital form. Therefore the issue of storing page-after-page of files is avoided. There are no concerns about fire or flood damage to physical files. Backed-up files are stored securely and can only be accessed via a password on a network, rendering a key or crowbar useless. Best of all, extremely important information can be safely stored for decades with no concern about deterioration of paper and ink or having to maintain a storage unit.

For many businesses, most of their information is already in digital form, so it would be easy to store through a data backup company. This information could be spreadsheets from past transactions, databases of client information, or various other important digital files that must be maintained. The only problem is that hard drive space is not unlimited. Unless information is periodically deleted, it is inevitable that more and more hard drive space is necessary to maintain the growing information. More and more hard drives and digital storage may not be the best or most affordable solution. Storing information on CD or floppy makes the information inconvenient to access. Thumb drives are helpful, but they only fit so much information. Plus, it would be a hassle to keep up with ten or more thumb drives. Instead, a backup service can store the information through a network at a remote location where these files can still be used and even updated.

The search for the right data backup services can begin locally or online. Businesses can work with a company right in town or one on the other side of the country. Regardless of location, it's good to get quotes from at least five companies. Start with companies that are recommended by family or friends who happen to be business owners. The price can vary from service to service, but two factors often decide the price: how extensive the setup will be and what amount of information needs backing up. Generally, a larger network with more computers and laptops will cost more money to set up for backup services. A customer will need to have this information handy for a quote and will also need to know roughly how much information needs backing up. More information means a higher cost since it's usually based on the number of gigabits. As long as the same information is provided to each company for a quote, the price comparison should be within the same range.

During the process of selecting the right data backup company, price is not the only factor. Although price is a start, reputation, customer service, and back up frequency must be considered when selecting the right service provider. The company should have little to no negative reviews online, especially regarding their customer service quality. On the company's website, they should include reviews and comments from clients. It's also extremely important to find out what backup software the company uses. This will be a determining factor in making the right choice. Good data backup services will offer this information on their websites. Read reviews on this software and do a little research on its reliability. Another important issue is how frequently the company backs up the files. This should occur every weekday, at least. Most companies will choose to do this during evening and night hours when most businesses are not using their files and networks.

Municipalities, schools, and businesses in every field have information backed up and stored in this high-tech, secure way. Although computers are very convenient and mostly reliable, having information backed up can be give a business owner piece of mind. Some information is so precious that it can never be recovered. Other information would take years to recover. A good data backup company will store this information in the best possible way while still allowing the business owner to access it as needed. By researching and also reading the privacy and retention policies for potential companies, customers can make a wise choice that will protect their business files for years to come.

Add to: File Insurance Business article Teen Photo Images