Local data backup alone is not enough – the need for an offsite backup
Local data backup alone is not enough – the need for an offsite backup

You would think that every company, government institution and administration would have an up-to-date backup strategy these days. Unfortunately, this is not the case – many companies still rely solely on their local backups. However, cyberattacks – such as those caused by ransomware – impressively demonstrate that this type of data backup alone is not enough to ensure adequate protection.
But hacker attacks are not the only threats that cannot be solved with local backups. For example, files may not be fully backed up or recoverable. Fire or water damage are also underestimated but realistic dangers, as they destroy not only the primary data but also the local backups.
One rule that should be followed when backing up data is the 3-2-1 backup rule, which is briefly explained below.
3 – Three copies of data
Users should make at least three copies of the data so that nothing can be lost in a worst-case scenario. One original should be saved as a primary copy and backup copies should also be made.
2 – Two different media
Different technologies and media types have different vulnerabilities and susceptibilities. By storing files and their copies in different ways, the probability of data loss can be significantly reduced. It is important to ensure that the storage alternatives have good protection functions.
1 – One backup copy at an external location – the offsite backup
It is self-explanatory that data located in the same place will most likely be lost all together in the event of an emergency. Therefore, one of the backup copies should be saved offsite.
A good backup strategy must therefore include at least one offsite backup.
An offsite backup is the storage and protection of a backup copy in a secure location, external to the company structure. This can be done in the traditional way by storing data carriers such as hard disks or memory cards externally. However, this requires too long a recovery time in emergencies and involves a great deal of effort. On the other hand, there are innovative, cloud-based alternatives that are ideal for small and medium-sized companies, as there is no need for hardware and software licenses and the company itself does not have to provide any support or administration.
No backup strategy without good planning
3-2-1 and the backup is mine? – Of course, it’s not that simple. A good backup strategy requires a lot of thought and planning before it can be implemented. Areas of responsibility and competence must be defined and the procedure determined. What should be backed up and how often? With which means and on which systems should the backups be saved? And many other aspects need to be considered beforehand.
In addition, the number of backup copies, the storage media used and the offsite locations can be customized according to your own requirements. For example, you can turn a 3-2-1 backup into a 6-4-2 backup.
Developing a strategy that is both appropriate and professional requires a great deal of effort and expertise. We are certified to ISO 9001:2015 (quality management) and ISO/IEC 27001:2015 (information security management) and will find the right solution for you to secure your company data in the best possible way.
About us
We are a powerhouse of IT specialists and support customers with digitalization. Our experts optimize modern workplace, DevOps, security, big data management and cloud solutions as well as end user support. We focus on long-term collaboration and promote the personal development of our employees. Together, we are building a future-proof powerhouse and supporting customers on their path to successful digitalization.