Most business owners know they should back up their data. Far fewer have a backup that would actually save them if a laptop died, was stolen or got hit by ransomware. This guide explains what good backups look like without the technical language.
The core problem
When your files only exist on one device, a single point of failure is all it takes to lose everything. Hard drives fail without warning. Laptops get stolen. Ransomware encrypts every file it can find. If that device is your only copy, those files are gone.
The principle behind good backups
A simple way to think about it is the 3-2-1 rule. Three copies of your data, on two different types of storage, with one copy offsite or in the cloud. In practice for a small business this means files on your computer, backed up to an external drive, and also synced to the cloud.
OneDrive as a starting point
If your business uses Microsoft 365 you already have OneDrive included. OneDrive syncs your files to the cloud automatically so if your laptop is lost or stolen you sign into any other device and your files are there.
It is a good starting point but it is not a complete backup solution. OneDrive does not protect your email, your calendar or your Teams data.
Where most businesses fall short
Having OneDrive running is not the same as having a managed backup. Many businesses discover their backup was not working, was not complete or did not cover the right data only when they actually need it.
A backup strategy that is actively monitored and regularly tested is very different from simply having a drive plugged in or a sync running. Most businesses only find out the difference when they actually need to restore something.
When to get help
If you are not sure whether your current backups would actually work in a crisis, or if you have never tested a restore, it is worth getting a professional assessment. Recloud sets up and monitors backup solutions for businesses so you never have to wonder whether your data is protected.