• Never underestimate security threats. It’s better to be prepared and treat security as an ever-changing and evolving issue than to be unprepared for the newest worm or virus attack.
• Have a security strategy. Simply buying anti-virus and anti-spam software is not enough. A documented security policy will cover access issues, e-mail protocol, file services, installing applications and Internet use.
• Get evaluated. A solution provider can determine the best security programs for your business and tailor solutions to your specific needs.
Data Backup and Disaster Prevention: Contrary to popular belief, data backup is not the same thing as disaster prevention. Data backup is defined as saving a copy of critical information on a disk or tape as part of everyday operations. Disaster prevention is the ability for a company to recover information and continue operating after damage to data or the complete loss of a geographic location. Those are related, but discreet, topics.
Here are three ways tips on data backup and disaster prevention plans.
• Create a data backup plan. Sit down with a technology consultant and decide how much and how often you want to back up and create a process for saving the information. Test the plan with an expert.
• Save the important material. Instead of backing up every piece of information, implement a tiered system so both backup and recovery time is shorter. Most businesses only use 10 percent of their data. Thus, a selective strategy will save time, money and storage space.
• Make a disaster recovery plan. The biggest hurdle for many small businesses often is cost, since off-site storage can be expensive. There are, however, cost-effective ways to create a business continuity plan. The best way to overcome this difficulty is to sit down with an expert to discuss disaster recovery and storage options within predetermined budget limitations.
As you’ve noticed in each of these areas, there are specific, affordable solutions that small businesses can easily implement on themselves or with the support of an industry professional. The best way to remain productive and profitable is to utilize experts. Visit our Web site at
The Information Technology Solution Providers Alliance or contact us at
findapartner@itspa.net to find a local technology consultant.
