Advantages and Disadvantages of Cloud Backup Services

Backing up data is critical for business and is a very common practice today. It’s a strategy where a business sends a copy or digital copy to an offsite location in case of catastrophe or equipment failure. You’ll have a possible remedy if you have a hard drive failure or you accidentally delete a file, 

The second server or data storage system is usually hosted by a third-party service provider. This is very true for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) while a large Fortune 500 company might have its own data centers. A large company might still use cloud storage to supplement its data backup systems. A great option can be cloud backup services dallas. 

Cloud storage is popular because you can boost data protection without increasing the work of staff. There could be large labor savings which will often offset the data charges. 

What is the Cloud?

The cloud is a general technology term to refer to hosted services that are delivered over the internet. Often, they are sold on demand. Clients can buy as little or as much as they needed. They are managed completely by the service provider. 

Cloud backup applications copy the data from clients’ data and storage systems. They’re stored on a separate storage system. In the event some files or databases needed to be recovered, the data is easily accessed. This is true for cloud infrastructure Dallas-based. 

What are the Advantages?

Cloud storage most often is a lot cheaper to backup data compared to maintaining an in-house operation. Most cloud backup services already have the hardware and software in place. They’re able to set up very quickly and essentially rent out a portion to you. An in-house solution would often require you to order a server, which would take time. If you don’t have the necessary specialist in your company already, you might need to hire a consultant or even another employee. 

There are economies of scale with cloud backup providers. Since it’s the cloud, you can simply order more space as your business grows. An in-house operation might require more oversight and hiring of manpower. Some backup services are managed. They’ll often take care of the management of backups. This is perfect for small and some medium businesses which don’t necessarily have a technology expert on their team. 

It seems like every day we read in the news of a new ransomware attack. Cloud backups are more secure against ransomware because they’re performed outside of the office network. The data is usually more encrypted. The backups are accessible anywhere. Accidentally deleted a file and you’re on vacation in Tahiti? In most cases, you’d be fine.

With an in-house team handling backups, there can be backup failures caused by a variety of issues. This includes accidental overwrites, improper storage, and physical media damage. These usually aren’t issues with cloud backups. 

The Disadvantages of Cloud Storage

Cloud backups are highly dependent on the internet. Some areas and countries have slow internet. Every minute counts if you’re trying to recover data and there’s some sort of downtime with your customers. 

Potential cloud storage customers need to do their homework and get familiar with the providers. What type of equipment do they use? What are their physical security procedures? What are their processes? Are they financially stable? They shouldn’t just choose the cheapest provider. They’re selecting a business partner. Many experts say cloud storage is the future. There are several pros and cons. Get educated to see if it’s best for your business.