Data backups are the cornerstone of business continuity planning and protect your business from cyberattacks and other unforeseen disasters. But outdated solutions can leave you vulnerable, especially if you assume it’s still working properly when it isn’t.
If your backups aren’t up to date, they may not be working properly, meaning not all of your vital data is being preserved. Your data backups are your last line of defense in the event of a major data loss event that could prove fatal for your business. Ransomware, in particular, is responsible for the shuttering of countless small businesses, with around 80% of attacks targeting businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees.
Here are five signs your backup solution needs a refresh so you can safeguard from ransomware and other data loss events.
Your backups take too long to complete
If your backup process drags on for hours or disrupts daily operations, it’s a clear indicator of inefficiency. Older systems struggle with large volumes of data, leading to delays and potential failures. Modern backup solutions use faster, incremental backups that capture changes in real time without slowing down your network.
You're relying on a single backup location
Storing backups in just one location such as an on-premises server or external hard drive is a risky and outdated practice. A single disaster, such as a fire or cyberattack, could wipe out all your data. If your backups and office are in the same location and a disaster strikes your premises, you could lose it all.
Upgrading to a cloud or hybrid backup solution stored in geo-redundant data centers keeps your files accessible even if physical storage is compromised.
Data recovery is slow or unreliable
A backup is only as good as its recovery speed. If restoring lost data takes too long or results in corrupted files, your backup system isn’t performing properly or incompatibilities are causing errors. You need near-instant recovery options to minimize the damage, and fortunately, this technology is readily available — you just have to upgrade.
You lack modern cybersecurity features
Cyberthreats, especially ransomware, target outdated backup systems so businesses can’t recover their files without paying. If your solution doesn’t include modern cybersecurity features designed to counter ransomware, such as encryption, immutable backups, or network-isolated storage, your business is at risk. Upgrading to a modern, security-focused backup strategy ensures your data remains safe and recoverable even after an attack.
You’re not regularly testing your backups
A backup system that isn’t tested might fail when you need it most. If you haven’t tested your backups recently, you’re operating on blind trust. You need a regular backup testing schedule, and luckily, newer backup systems include built-in testing capabilities, so you always know your data is protected and recoverable.
If any of these warning signs sound familiar, it’s time to explore modern backup options that offer faster performance, better security, and reliable recovery. Contact Kortek Solutions, and our experienced consultants can help audit your current data backup systems and recommend what upgrades are needed to keep your business protected.