The big fish in the tech industry have access to advanced data storage and security solutions, but what about small businesses?
Many small business owners feel overwhelmed when trying to decide between on-site and cloud backup for their company. And with data security becoming more and more important, it’s no wonder why. Businesses face pressure of making the right choice or face the risk of selecting inadequate protection for their data.
To simplify the decision-making process, let’s look at the pros and cons of both on-site and cloud backup for small businesses.
Why Do Businesses Need to Put Forth Greater Effort in Protecting Data?
A recent survey reported that “every five years, 20% of small businesses suffer from data loss due to a major disaster.” This statistic highlights that many small businesses either don’t realize the importance of data protection or fail to implement the right solutions to protect their digital assets.
One approach to data protection is on-site backup (or local backup). This method provides direct control of the data, faster recovery times, and proximity to the source. However, physical disasters such as fire, flooding, or even an accidental mistake from an employee could put your on-site backups at risk.
Moreover, managing an on-site system comes with resource constraints and scalability challenges. Expenses pile up quickly, whether it’s the need to purchase additional hardware or upgrade existing systems. These financial considerations underscore the need for a more comprehensive approach to data protection.
What Is Cloud Backup?
Unlike on-site backups, cloud backups involve the use of online storage systems to securely store data. This allows businesses to benefit from the following:
- Off-Site Storage: Protects data from physical disasters
- Automated Backups: Ensures that the data is backed up regularly and quickly
- Scalability: Allows businesses to access more resources as their needs grow
However, there are some drawbacks when it comes to cloud backup. Data security can be an issue due to potential cyberattacks.
Additionally, cloud systems rely on an internet connection. If your connection is lost, you may not be able to access your data. Lastly, there can be potential cost implications when it comes to using the cloud depending on storage and bandwidth needs.
Misconceptions Around Cloud Security
There are plenty of misconceptions that come with cloud security. This is why it’s important to be aware of the myths that are out there and how they impact your decision-making process like the following:
Myth 1. Cloud Storage Is Not Secure
While there are potential risks associated with cloud storage, the reality is that it can be more secure than on-site backups. Many of the top providers have advanced security systems in place and use encryption to protect your data.
Myth 2. Cloud Storage Will Cost Too Much Money
This isn’t necessarily true; the cost of the cloud depends on the size and scope of your business and how much storage space you need. Some providers offer competitive prices and can be customized to fit any budget.
Which Is Better for Your Business?
When considering the pros and cons of on-site and cloud backup for small businesses, there is no perfect answer for every business. The best outcome for your business will greatly depend on the following factors:
- What is your budget for data storage solutions?
- How sensitive is the data you’re storing?
- Are you planning to expand?
If you prioritize data security, scalability, and lower costs, then cloud backup may be a better option for your business. The cloud also allows for faster recovery times in the event of a disaster. With cloud backup, your business could be up and running as soon as possible.
Cloud Backup for Small Businesses with Simple Systems
For businesses that choose cloud backup, Simple Systems offers a customizable and automated solution for data protection. Our cloud backup for small businesses are designed to help protect against threats such as malware or ransomware attacks, while also helping businesses recover quickly in the event of a disaster.
We provide automated backups at regular intervals and even offer a disaster recovery service to help businesses get back up and running as quickly as possible. If you’re ready to get started, contact us today for more information.
