Do I need to back up my data if it’s in the cloud?
Cloud storage is a popular solution for businesses and individuals these days. There are many great benefits that come with the cloud including convenience, accessibility, and security. However, it can be risky to rely solely on the cloud to back up your data and keep it secure. You should still regularly back up your data for added protection, even if it’s in the cloud.
Data Loss and Corruption
Many cloud providers have robust security measures, but no system is perfect. Corruption or data loss can happen due to a variety of reasons including software bugs, human error, and hardware failures. Keeping your data locally backed up regularly ensures that you can recover your files and important data if something goes wrong. Often times, malicious attackers will purge any backups they have access to, which would include ones found in the cloud. Additionally, most cloud providers state in their agreements that they are not responsible for the loss of your data, even if they are providing backup services.
Many cloud or online services will periodically experience downtime or outages due to maintenance, technical issues, or security threats. However, by having a local backup, you can continue working and accessing your files without interruption.
Accidents happen, and important files may unintentionally get deleted. The recovery options offered by cloud services are not always foolproof, so it’s important to have that additional layer of protection against accidental data loss. For more information on how to ensure your backups are reliable, you can learn more here.
Cybersecurity Threats
The cloud is not immune to cyberattacks, hackers, or ransomware, and a local backup can save you from potential data loss in the event of a security breach. In the case of a ransomware attack, a local backup may be the only way to get your data back safely.
Data Migration and Transition
Maintaining a regular local backup of your data can simplify the process of switching cloud providers or migrating your data. It reduces the risk of data loss during the transition by having a complete copy of your data in a safe location.
Peace of Mind
Ultimately, you should back up your data even if it’s in the cloud for the peace of mind. You will know that your files are safe, secure, and accessible regardless of your cloud service.
Cloud storage services are a great blanket of security for data protection. However, like most things, to ensure your data is fully protected, you should not have only one line of defense. Maintain regular back ups of your data to protect yourself from a wide variety of potential issues.
If you would like more information or assistance with backing up your company’s data, contact one of our expert techs today for a free consultation!
