Overview
Backup software can be used to create an extra
copy of your important files and data. Your electronic files may be the
lifeline of your business, and you cannot afford to lose your
information. Backups ensure that your data remains safe in the event of
an emergency. Backup software allows you to streamline how you backup
and restore your data. You can automate your backup process while
designating where you data is stored. You can store backup files on zip
drives, compact disks, flash drives, and external hard drives. No matter
the case, you can rest assured that your business's information is
safe.
How It Works
Backup software duplicates information from a workstation or server onto digital media including zip drives, compact disks, flash drives, and external hard drives. The software will allow you to create an automatic backup schedule, or you can create manual backups when necessary. To save time, software programs will conduct an incremental backup that saves only the data that has been changed or created since the last backup. Incremental backups reduce costs and required time. Some backup software allows you to compress and encrypt data to save disk space and to provide additional levels of security.More businesses are creating remote backups. With remote backups, files are stored offsite in order to minimize the risk of damage due to natural disasters, hackers, and hardware failure. Offsite data centers provide services that allow you to backup and store data through the Internet. Many of these services allow you to double check critical processes and to ensure the reliability of backups taken.
Benefits
As mentioned previously, backups are essential to restore operations in case of loss of data. Using backed up data ensures faster recovery of operations and thus reduces any losses that could be incurred when data is damaged. Using backup software saves time when compared to manual backups. The software can be scheduled to run at fixed times for easier maintenance. Backup software also keeps your information secure by encrypting data. You can easily restore your data and operations with a prepackaged recovery tool.Costs
The cost of backup software varies depending on what features you need. You can reduce costs by using shareware and freeware tools. In any case, freeware and shareware may not provide the right options for business users.You should consider whether your program is installed on a workstation or on a server. Your software will cost between $29 and $600, but customers who purchase multiple licenses are often eligible for discounts. You make need to hire a full or part time networking administrator to maintain complex data backups.