Small business owners are often advised to back up their data to ensure that they don’t lose any important information. One of the most popular and cost-effective ways to do this is by using an external hard drive. Unlike tape drive systems, which can be quite expensive, external hard drives are easy to use and simply require you to plug them into the USB port of your computer.
But what if you want a more comprehensive backup solution? There are a number of options available, including Acronis Cyber Backup software, which offers both cloud and on-premise backup solutions. Other popular options include MSP360, NAKIVO, Veeam, and Unitrends.
Of course, cost is always a consideration when it comes to backup solutions. Acronis Cyber Backup, for example, starts at $69.95 and charges $99 per year for each additional feature. While there is no free version of the software available, it is possible to test it out for free before making a purchase.
For more comprehensive backup solutions, organizations can expect to pay between $2 and $4 per GB per month. For lower-level data backup, the average cost is closer to $1 per GB per month. And if you’re looking for a backup server, a comprehensive managed solution will typically start at $500, plus $2 to $3 per gigabyte per month.
When it comes to backing up large amounts of data, there are a number of options available. USB sticks are a cheap and convenient option, but they can be easily lost or damaged. External hard drives are a more reliable option, as are network attached storage solutions. And for those who want to learn more about cloud storage, there are a number of resources available online.
One popular cloud storage service is Backblaze, which offers unlimited storage for a low monthly fee. But how can they afford to offer such a cheap service? According to the company, most users only backup a small amount of data, which allows them to keep costs low.
Of course, data security is always a concern when it comes to backups. Polycloud, for example, offers state-of-the-art encryption and distributes data across a wide network of devices to ensure that it remains secure. And with Acronis Cyber Backup, data is encrypted at the source using government-approved AES-256 encryption.
So, is it mandatory for businesses to back up their data? While there is no legal requirement to do so, any business that maintains data on its computer that it does not want to lose should consider data backups. And for small businesses in particular, it’s recommended that important data be backed up at least once a week, if not once every 24 hours.
When it comes to choosing the best backup solution for your business, there are a number of factors to consider. Cloud storage services like IDrive and Backblaze offer good overall performance and value, while Acronis True Image is a popular alternative for power users. And for those who need a crash plan for their small business, there are a number of specifications to consider, such as those offered by SpiderOak One and Carbonite Safe.
Ultimately, the best backup solution will depend on your specific needs and budget. But with so many options available, there’s no reason why any small business should have to risk losing important data.