The importance of backups is critical: your data is exposed to various risks such as technical failures, human errors, cyberattacks, or natural disasters, and requires protection. Backing up, as a safety copy, is essential for recovering your data in case of loss or damage.
Characteristics of a good backup:
- Reliable: Your data must be recoverable in its entirety.
- Secure: Protect and encrypt your backups against unauthorized access and cyber threats.
- Efficient: It must run in the background without interrupting your work.
Tips for an effective backup:
- Select the data that needs backing up. Avoid backing up applications that can be downloaded and reinstalled, so you don’t clutter your backup space.
- Backup frequency: Adapt it to the importance of your data. A monthly backup isn’t enough if you’re saving new photos daily.
- Retention period: Keep your data according to its relevance. For businesses: comply with legal requirements.
The 3-2-1 golden rule for your data:
- Keep 3 copies of your data, including the original.
- Use 2 different media for backups. For example, a combination of cloud backup and external hard drive.
- Have 1 off-site copy. The cloud copy, or a backup drive at an external location (friends, family), to protect yourself against fire or flood.
Protection against cyberattacks:
- Disconnect your backup media after use.
- Lock your backups to prevent any modifications (immutability).
- Encrypt your data to make it unreadable in case of theft.
Best practices for organizations:
- Document your backup strategies clearly.
- Ensure compliance of your practices with security and privacy standards.
- Test and improve your backup plan regularly to ensure its effectiveness.
Stay informed!
It’s essential to stay trained in the digital field, which evolves very rapidly. A user who isn’t prepared for risks can become a weak link in the security of their own data or that of a company.
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