5 Factors to Evaluate Before Selecting Backup Software
For any business, the threat of losing vital data is alarming. There are several causes of data loss like OS failure, viruses, accidental deletion, manmade or natural disasters, etc. Such an attack on the company’s critical data can render the company crippled. In the annual survey on World Backup Day 2019 (31st March), Acronis concluded that around 65% of people reported loss of data. This is why more companies are installing backup software to safeguard precious data. Backup software enables backup of files, folders, documents, videos, and computer in its entirety. Backup software works within individual computers or servers to duplicate and transfer selected files to a local server or cloud-based server. These backups take place at a scheduled interval or as per the requirement of the management, ensuring the protection of data.
But the question that arises is how to locate the best backup software out of the numerous options? To select the ideal backup tool, access the following aspects within the software.
 1.  Specifications Before making any purchase, verify whether the shortlisted software meets all your requirements. Create a list of essential features that you want in the software. Determine the number of computers you want the software to operate on and whether they are in the same workstation or scattered. Additionally, do you need the backup tool to provide remote file access so that you can back up data from separate branches or offices? Now, cross-verify if the software can execute this or not. Look for an app that offers a high-speed data backup, even when there is excessive data. Moreover, check what kinds of storage options are available and how long the data will be retained. The general retention period is 30 days, but in case you need an extension, discuss with the software provider any alternative method they can provide. It is an added bonus if the software authorizes a bootable USB stick so that you can backup or restore data on any desired PC.
2. Â Type of Backup There are several types of backup offered by backup tools. The most common ones are Full system backup, Differential backup, and Incremental backup. Full System Backup: Â As the name suggests, Full system backup, duplicates the entire system that is selected every time the backups are run. This system offers easy and rapid restores as the complete system is saved. But the major drawback of this system is that each backup is time-consuming since the same data is copied and stored each time. Differential Backup: After the first full backup, this system stores all the changes that were made since the last full backup. This system uses much less storage space in comparison with Full system backup, although the restores are also slower and more complicated. Incremental Backup: After the first full backup, this system stores only those changes that were made since the last backup has been executed. The incremental backup system utilizes the least storage space when compared to Full system backup and Differential backup, while its restores are the slowest. It is critical to determine the model you wish to implement into your business.
3. Â Security and Recovery
 Just storing the data on an external server does not protect it from damages. Therefore it is essential that your backup software offers additional security for the data. Several software offers encryption to protect the data when it leaves your command. Encrypted data requires a password to be accessed, thereby assuring that the data remains useless for an unauthorized person. Inquire about the level of encryption provided by your vendor.
Look for a provider that offers protection against ransomware along with basic security measures. Moreover, study the disaster recovery strategies implemented by the backup software. In case of any disaster, how soon can your vendor recover your data as well as what are the possibilities of data loss? Also, ask for any previous breach of security faced by the backup provider and the actions taken by them for retrieving the data.
However, be sure to verify whether the security services offered are all-inclusive or an add-on feature.
4. Â Post Sales Support
 Backup software is incorporated within the various departments of the data center. This increases the chances of the software breaking down due to pressure from a certain sector or failing altogether while interoperating. Hence it is crucial for businesses to consider a vendor that offers quality training and post-sales support.
Discuss the organizational requirements and confirm that the vendor matches the needs. Inquire about the possibility of upgrading the software that can match the growth of your company. Keep yourself updated on the point of contact in case of system failure. Be sure to keep track of any previous glitch that could assist tech support in rapid resolution.
Communication is the key here. If you find a vendor being inattentive and unprofessional during the initial interaction, then the subsequent service quality can be judged effortlessly.
5. Â Pricing
 As data is an invaluable asset of any industry, its safety is extremely critical. Loss or misuse of vital data can result in tremendous financial and reputational loss. Therefore, consider spending on the best backup software as an investment that could bring a lot of benefit to your organization. Installing any additional software into the business may cost more initially. But, it is essential to plan a budget that can provide an economical backup software system without compromising the quality.
Take quotations from prospective vendors. You can also negotiate for a better offer. Most software tools offer all the essential features required for the smooth functioning of the software, yet ask for the list of services included in the final quote. Moreover, inquire about any add-on services the vendor offers that you might plan on incorporating in the future.
Backup software is a long term requirement. Therefore, you need to be certain that the vendor you choose can meet all your current requirements as well as possess the ability to grow with your company. At GoodFirms, find the right backup software provider that can solve all your queries and deliver a complete backup solution.
