Worst Practices for Data Backup

Here are some of the worst practices in backing up data:

1. Doing no data backup at all. This seems like a no-brainer but it is a common mistake. In many cases it is an unintentional mistake. Backup jobs are neglected and don't backup all important data.
   


2. Failing to keep offsite backup copies of data. This is one of the most common problems. Storing backup copies in the same building as the computers your are backing up does not protect against many disasters.
   


3. Failing to monitor your backup jobs effectively. Don't assume that no news is good news. Backup jobs often fail, don't run, or skip files. Check your backup jobs and logs often and correct any problems as soon as possible.
   


4. Using manual procedures. Manual procedures are often forgotten, postponed, neglected and just not performed. Use automated procedures to make your data backup reliable.
   


5. Not encrypting backup data. Most backups contain some sensitive data. Backup media, including portable disk drives, can be lost or stolen and fall into the wrong hands. An old tape or disk drive that you may have erased, may end up being salvaged and data scavenged by identity thieves long after you have discarded them.
   


6. Not performing test restores of your data. Just because a backup job finished without errors doesn't guarantee that you can restore your data. The only way you can be sure is to periodically test the restore procedure.
   

Data Backup and Recovery