Hero or Zero?

Don't wait until you need the data you have backed up to test your retrieval procedures. Your backup processes are not a Ronco Showtime Rotisserie Grill - you can't just "set it and forget it". In the event of data loss, you can be a hero or a zero. Which one do you want to be?

Sawing Logs

While poring over arcane log files may not be your idea of a good time, it does not have to be painful. Most modern backup systems can be configured to perform what is called "exception reporting" - meaning you can create rules (or filters) and the system will notify you if a rule is violated (or if there is a match to your filter condition). If your backup runs daily, guess what - check your logs daily.

Random Testing

At least weekly, grab some randomly selected backup media and try to restore a good sized chuck of data. Most importantly you will insure your data is being backed up, but you will also become intimately familiar with your backup systems. The time to be reading the manual to see how to restore critical data is not when the big boss is breathing down your neck demanding access to his critical files.

It's not just a Good Idea, its the Law

If your company is publicly traded laws such as those enacted by Sarbanes-Oxley govern how you backup and restore data. If your company is a health care provider, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) dictates certain measures you must take to protect your critical data.

Need help?

If you need help developing a backup, archiving, retrieval, or document management plan, Contact DTS today.