Backup Essentials for Businesses
Updated
Learn backup essentials for businesses, including what data to save, how often to back it up, and best practices for scheduling.
Backups are located under Backup & Restore, which is secured by a dedicated vault password in addition to your regular sign-in credentials.
What is included
- The complete database: customer information, orders, invoices, content, settings, and logs.
- Uploaded files: images, documents, and product downloads.
Scheduling
- Open Backup & Restore > Backup Setting.
- Select the frequency for backups (daily is suitable for most businesses) and designate a quiet time of day.
- Specify the number of copies to retain. Older copies will be automatically deleted once the limit is reached.
- Add a cloud destination under Cloud to ensure a copy is stored off the server.
The rule of three
Maintain three copies of your data, using two distinct types of storage, with one copy located off-site or away from your office or server. If a backup is stored solely on the machine it is intended to protect, it will be lost along with that machine.
Verify Functionality
Each month, restore the most recent backup to a test copy and review several records. Refer to Restore from a backup safely for guidance.
Understanding Backup Types and Considerations
When establishing your backups, you must consider the type of data you are safeguarding and the unique requirements of your business. Backups can be divided into two primary types: full backups and incremental backups.
Full Backups
A full backup captures all the data in your system at a specific point in time. This provides you with a complete snapshot of your operations. However, full backups can consume substantial storage space and may lead to longer recovery times.
Incremental Backups
Incremental backups save only the changes made since the last backup. This approach is generally quicker and uses less storage space. It is ideal for businesses that aim to reduce downtime and storage expenses while maintaining data integrity.
Factors to Consider
- Data Importance: Identify which data is essential for your operations and prioritise it in your backup strategy.
- Recovery Time Objective (RTO): Establish how quickly you need to restore data in the event of a failure.
- Compliance Requirements: Ensure your backup strategy aligns with any industry regulations regarding data retention and security.
A well-planned backup strategy protects your data and ensures business continuity. Regularly reviewing and updating your backup processes is vital to meet evolving business needs.