Storing information is one of the primary concerns in an enterprise, making managed data recovery an important solution that every company must implement. Even the most reliable storage devices can be vulnerable to security threats or software malfunctions. Thus, making sure that your data stays accessible in the event of failure should always be a top priority.
For the most part, digital information is recoverable, but that is not a reason to be complacent. Learn more about data recovery and why it is crucial to have a backup strategy as a weapon against digital data loss.
What Causes Data Loss?
Before we delve into the definition of data recovery, understanding how information can be lost is an important first step. According to a StorageCraft survey of IT professionals conducted in 2017, 31% agree that a system or hardware failure is the primary cause of data loss. On the other hand, 29% of IT professionals believe it to be due to human error, while another 29% said malware, viruses or ransomware could cause data loss.
The 2019 Data Breach Investigations Report published by Verizon shows yet again how external threats are a significant culprit of data loss. Around 28% of the recorded data breach cases use malware attacks to steal information.
The way a user handles data could also reveal how and why data can be lost. For example, it can happen if you accidentally delete or format folders or files. Data stored in the computer would also likely be erased if you drop or cause physical damage to any storage device.
What Is Data Recovery?
Data recovery is the process of retrieving data when it becomes inaccessible on a storage device due to a physical or logical failure. Fortunately, there are many tools and processes to enable this. The recovery process can be conducted through a broad range of storage devices, which include external hard drives, desktop or laptop internal storage drives. It can also be applied to USB flash drives, solid-state drives, memory cards like SDHC, SD or SDXC, and optical storage media such as DVD, CD or BD.
A storage device that abruptly stops working or is damaged can be subject to compromised data. What managed data recovery does is to enable the inspection of the affected storage or the entire device to scout for the lost files.
Not every data lost is recoverable, but a significant portion of accidentally deleted or damaged data can exist in fragments and found on the hard drive. A dedicated data recovery specialist should be able to restore a surprisingly high number of data on damaged media.
For enterprises, managed data recovery involves the restoration of information that is stored as a backup in another server, desktop, laptop, or external storage system. It is the best technique since it enables a more straightforward copy method that allows you to retain all information lost even after a damaged peripheral is replaced.
What Are the Benefits of Managed Data Recovery?
- Restores data even when programs or devices become corrupted
- Establishes a fully automated backup system
- Adds additional storage devices and space for the company
- Expedites the recovery of data as the process is quick and efficient
- Provides real solutions against cyberattacks such as viruses and malware
- Ensures that business is uninterrupted while data is being restored
How Does Data Recovery Work?
The process of data recovery varies depending on the extent of data loss. A data recovery software will create an automated backup of the files and folders contained in a computer. These files and folders can then be accessed whether the device sustains physical or logical failure. Another way is to use tape backup, which requires the help of an IT professional to restore corrupted databases.
Retrieval of information not under backup could still be possible since it could exist as fragments in the hard drive. Typically, when data is to be recovered, only the file allocation table (information about the file) is not working correctly. This means the data is still flawless and stored in the hard drive. If the file has not been encrypted or damaged in any way, recovery can be performed.
The data recovery process can involve several technologies so that companies do not rely exclusively on the more time-consuming tape backup. It may also include identifying which data are a must to recover, and which unnecessary data can be left unresolved.
Managed Data Recovery Is a Must
Managed data recovery from NST offers tailored solutions to protect your data and ensure that they stay accessible regardless of storage device failure or damage. Our offering delivers a fully managed service that includes administration and reporting, granting you the peace of mind that your company’s information is in good hands. Our solutions are regularly maintained and tested to ensure that all the client’s pertinent information is kept secure and updated.
If you need a reliable service provider that can enable managed data recovery in your company, NST is your trusted partner. Contact us today to start securing your information.