The 3-2-1 Backup Rule
Cybersecurity Awareness Month may be winding down, but protecting your business data is a fight that never ends. At MMIT, we know data backups aren’t exactly exciting until your business loses a critical file. The good news? You don’t need to be an IT expert to protect your business.
How the 3-2-1 Backup Method Works
A few small habits can save your business from big headaches later on. One of the best is the 3-2-1 backup method. It’s a simple rule: keep three copies of your data, store them on two different types of media, and make sure one copy is kept off-site. This approach gives your business multiple layers of protection against accidental deletion, hardware failure, or even a cyberattack.
Three Copies of Your Data
The first step is having three total copies of your data. That means your original files plus two backups. The first copy is what you use every day for your normal business operations. The second copy should be a local backup stored on another device like an external hard drive or company server. The third copy needs to be kept somewhere else, away from your main system. Having three versions gives your business extra protection in case one copy is lost, damaged, or compromised.
Two Different Media Types
The next step is to store your data in two different ways. For example, you might keep one copy on an external hard drive and another in the cloud. Using more than one type of storage helps protect your business from different types of problems. If your hardware fails, you still have the cloud copy. If your online account is hacked, you still have your local copy. This mix of storage options keeps your data safe and gives your business more flexibility.
One Copy Off Site
The final step is keeping one copy of your data off-site, away from your main location. This off-site copy acts as your safety net if something happens to your office, like a fire, flood, or theft. It can be stored in the cloud or on an external drive kept at another secure location. Keeping one copy off-site protects your business from local disasters and ensures that your data can always be recovered, even if your main systems go down.
The 3-2-1 backup method is one of the easiest ways to prevent data loss. By keeping three copies of your files, using two different types of storage, and keeping one copy off site, you give your business a simple but powerful safety plan. It takes a little effort upfront, but it can save time, stress, and money when it matters most.
At MMIT, we help businesses build smart, reliable backup plans that fit their needs. If you are not sure where to start, our team can help you set up a system that keeps your data protected all year long.
Visit MMIT Business Solutions or call (515) 251-1511 to get started.