Three Ways to Properly Store Data

Generally speaking, you should be backing your data up on the cloud or on a dedicated server that only authorized people can access. Yet, most companies only have one set of data and is only stored in one place – usually in employee’s personal computers, or the local workspace drive. So, what is the best way to store data and how should it be kept to adhere to good data storage practices?

Triplicate Data Storage

Having three different save points is recommended by both Network administrators and Database experts. You’ll have one saved on a local drive, company in-house server, and one off-site server. The reason why this is endorsed my data professionals is due to the fact that it helps your data from being corrupted and if someone messes up their local file, they are able to copy one from the local in-house server.

You’ll see this method more with utility and highly valued data companies such as APS and governmental agencies.

Hybrid Data Storage

Most servers and cloud storage companies have ways to implement an auto-save feature after a certain amount of time has passed or keystrokes. This feature can be extended to files that are being used on a company’s internal server so the employee can access the file from anyway in the world as long as they are the company’s VPN.

This has become a common occurrence in companies who have adapted to the remote work environment. Which keeps the files off of the employees’ computers and only on the company’s internal server with their own dedicated storage. This method does get rid of the triplicate method of data storage keeping, by keeping the data off the employees dedicated drivers that can’t be accessed by the company.

You should also be backing up data on an off-site server in the event something happens to the company’s internal server.

External Hard Drive Data Storage

This is an old method of storing data that many companies don’t commonly do. However, this is more beneficial for extremely important data that the company just cannot lose. It’s perfect for security and preventing data loss in the event if something happens to the cloud, server, or hackers.

This method is not commonly discussed with company’s who deal with data and extremely important data. You may see this from governmental agencies and older companies who use outdated technology, but in a modern landscape it’s almost unheard of.

With regard to the three different ways of proper data storage, you should also keep in mind that using the cloud does pose it’s risks along with on and off-site servers. I would advise to have some sort of insurance when using these methods in the event of a cyberattack or worse. Along with that, an external hard drive can also have its risks if someone steals it or gets corrupted.