Facts to Consider When Selecting a Backup Disaster Recovery Solution

In the past month, I have been asked by a number of clients "what considerations are important when deciding on a Backup and Disaster Recovery solution?". So I decided to write a few key points to assist you in making an intelligent decision.

Consider these facts when selecting a Backup and Disaster Recovery (BDR) solution:

1. A viable BDR solution should cover all the computing platforms in the business.

2. The solution should provide protection for all data, whether that data resides on servers, laptops or desktops computers.

3. On-site and off-site backups should occur at regular intervals to meet individual clients' needs.

4. Backups should occur rapidly and seamlessly to avoid interfering with server performance while the backup process is being executed.

5. For best results, off-site backup should be provided at a hardened, secure data center, and that has a high level of physical security in place along with internet and power redundancy. Data should be secure on-site as well as off-site by using a high level of encryption. The encryption key should be kept in a secure location either by the end-client themselves, or their respective solution provider.

6. The BDR solution should restore server images to dissimilar hardware. This is essential, as it prevents a disaster recovery from being limited by the type of new server that will be installed.

7. It’s important to know the recovery time frame following a server crash or catastrophe. The procedure for rebounding after the latter two disasters must not be complex, but rather, comprised of a few simple, straight-forward steps.

8. Ensure that there are no hidden fees — the cost to maintain and manage the solution on a weekly, monthly, and annual basis — plus any labor expenditures — should be taken into consideration before signing a deal.

9. Are your backups being monitored and notifications sent to you every day?

10. Are you being provided with coverage 24 hours per day, 365 days per year?


If you still have questions about BDR, please do not hesitate to contact me at mmellott@xpertechs.com