Since SQL Server 2012 SP1 CU2 (released 1/2013), Microsoft has included the ability to backup directly to Azure. And starting with their 2014 version, they have included a Managed Backup capability that offers the simplest way to get started backing up to the cloud. In addition, in 2014 they released an external tool that enables automatic copying of older SQL Server versions’ backups to Azure. However, while these capabilities offer a welcome alternative to on-premises drive and/or tape backups, there are many things to consider and configure in order to create a robust and fully capable SQL Disaster Recovery (DR) solution in Azure. Which is to say, there are always many things to consider and configure in order to create a robust and fully capable SQL DR solution, and the Azure capabilities do not, in most cases, significantly simplify the planning, implementation, and assurance of your DR capabilities. Backing up to the cloud, however, offers a robust alternative to traditional on-premises approaches in that it is immediately geographically isolated, relatively cost efficient, and supports substantial DR advantages such as in-cloud recovery and failover.
Protecting data, whether in a database system such as Microsoft SQL Server, or in a file system, is becoming an ever more critical and complex endeavor. From high-profile data breaches, to the all too common experience of losing a hard drive, we are all aware that data can be suddenly and catastrophically lost. But many, even with information technology responsibilities in their jobs, lack the time, expertise, and budget to adequately protect their most critical data.
In the current economy, many businesses across the globe are seeking alternatives to costly data backup methods. A popular solution to costly backup methods is cloud backup, which works well as a strategy for business continuity planning and disaster recovery. Data backup and storage in the cloud means that the cloud service provider takes responsibility for costly backup hardware and redundancy methods. The company seeking cloud storage pays a monthly subscription fee, which is based on the amount of backup and storage which is required.
In order to successfully backup and store data in the cloud, you must choose a reliable provider that has a track record for using multiple backup servers, advanced security, and immediate access and recovery in the event of a disaster. A lot of companies prefer to pursue the best of both worlds by combining the speed of local backup with the security of cloud backup. This concept is known as hybrid backup and is more cost effective than tape methods and other offsite storage methods.
Every company is aware that the proper data protection measures are of utmost importance. Yet many businesses still utilize older methods of data backup such as tape systems, costly onsite backup methods, and offsite systems that may mean several days until recovery takes place. These methods consume resources and pose more risks of failure in addition to being complex, costly, and labor intensive.
New data backup and recovery technologies eliminate (more…)
In the current economic downturn where IT budgets are declining and the demand for IT resources is increasing, the expectations for many companies are you must accomplish more with less. As a result, many businesses and enterprises are working to find ways to cut costs without compromising productivity while remaining competitive. With all of these pressures and responsibilities how do you ensure ongoing growth while meeting compliance requirements and your service level agreements?
The answer to this dilemma is the incorporation of new technologies into your IT infrastructure. Although this may sound like you are increasing IT capital expenditures you are actually cutting costs while increasing productivity in response to the ever changing market. Here are some thoughts on how to reduce costs while still maintaining the competitive advantage. (more…)
There are many advantages to storing your data in the cloud. This is the primary reason that cloud storage has increased in popularity during recent years. Many businesses are realizing the benefits of cloud storage in terms of cost savings, convenience, and accessibility.
Like anything else, when it comes to protecting important data there are things you should consider (more…)
Lightning can strike any time, and in any form. It can be a power surge leaving your hard disk useless or an over flooded bathroom sink leaving your equipment blown out. It can also be as simple as lack of attention. Whatever the deal is, it will certainly bring one question to your mind – do you have a backup of your data? Sadly the answer usually is no. Many people lose several months and sometimes years of work in such situations.
Why you need a Backup
A backup is your safety net in case of a disaster. Data can be lost due to corruption such as unauthorized access, viral spyware, accidents and mistakes. Any of these can happen any time and cause you problems and not to mention – mental stress. To avoid such difficult situations it is best to get a (more…)
When planning business continuity it is necessary that every step should be taken with utmost caution. Business continuity is the complete process for restoration of a business. It includes scope, insurance policies, how to keep hold of your employees, vendors and customer, and most important of them all the Disaster Recovery plan. It is surprising how a fifty person organization that manages over a billion dollars in client assets would act miserly when spending $25,000 on disaster planning. Such a petty sum to guarantee them business safety in a disastrous situation and yet they think it is not worth the money.
Business continuity is vital element in (more…)
Cloud computing is a term used to define products and services delivered through the internet. Since its introduction this IT phenomenon has been growing and evolving towards the right way. Cloud computing has been defined by a leading technology researchers as “a style of computing where massively scalable IT-related capabilities are provided as a service using internet technologies to multiple external customers”. Also known as hosted services, the cloud computing services offering virtualized and web services, along with some other new technologies have turned managed IT systems upside down, (more…)