Backups and cloud storage are two entirely different things, though people confuse one with the other all the time. Cloud storage (like Google Drive, OneDrive or Dropbox) is really about access and collaboration. It is used to save files online, share them and work from anywhere. When your laptop breaks, you can still log in and work from any device to view current documents.
What a Backup Is For
A backup is about recovery. It means having a duplicate version of your data stored in such a way that you can still access it in an emergency or disaster. Backups are built to be like a “time machine” that lets you restore your data from a given point in time.
Do You Need Both?
In most SMEs, yes.
The good news is that cloud storage protects you from device failure and makes your daily tasks simpler. But while it can soften the impact of human error, it is not always a failsafe. If someone deletes a folder (or it gets deleted from a synced device), that change can sync across to the cloud. This is why it’s important that cloud solutions have recycle bins and version history, but those are only good within certain retention periods.
With a true backup, there is another layer of security. The backup should be set up to run automatically, be encrypted and be tested regularly (because a backup you can’t restore is useless). It should also be insulated from accidental changes or deletions by regular user accounts. For a Wasabi Partner, visit www.primesys.co.uk/partnerships/wasabi
The Easiest Approach
Work on files in the cloud, but use a separate backup solution for data that is crucial to your business. Your IT partner should help you determine how to back up, what needs backing up and how often.