Backup Solutions

What is Backup?

Backup is a strategic and methodical process used to copy and ultimately recover data efficiently and ensure its daily or operational availability.

The backup process copies data from file servers, databases and client systems to another device or media for future use. The data is then available in the event that unwanted interruptions, deletions or alterations occur to any of these systems. While backup processes and methods vary, all copy and enable efficient data recovery.

How Will Backup Solutions Benefit My Business?

An effective backup plan sets the foundation for your disaster recovery strategy and can help your business achieve:

• Consistent availability of data
• Reduced storage costs
• Protection from financial loss
• Improved operational efficiencies
• Increased staff productivity

How Can I Help My Business Embrace Backup Solutions?

When considering the implementation of a backup solution, it's important to consider:

• The value of your data and the financial and operational impact to your business if it were unavailable for a period of time
• Your recovery point objectives (RPO) and recovery time objectives (RTO)
• Current data storage capacity and related expenses

What Are the Components of a Backup Solution?

An effective backup solution is typically comprised of a mix of the following:

Backup Software

Backup software ensures the protection and restoration of all data to the strictest RTO and RPO, regardless of type and location. Best of breed products offer continuous data protection (CDP) of both file servers and databases such as SQL or Exchange systems.

Data Deduplication

Most network data is redundant—the same file is backed up on multiple devices. Data deduplication reduces redundancy and saves storage and energy costs.

Hosted Backup Services

Hosted data backup providers can fully-automate backup and recovery services that can save your IT department time and money. A hosted backup strategy can boost productivity, freeing up staff resources for more strategic projects.

Disk-to-Disk-to-Tape (D2D2T)

A disk-to-disk-to-tape process backs up data to a disk for a defined period of time after which it is moved to tape. This strategy can reduces the backup window and improve RTO.

Virtual Tape Library

A disk-based storage system is designed to appear to backup software as a tape device. This is commonly used in a D2D2T strategy.

Getting Started with Backup

Your CDW Account Manager and certified storage specialists are ready to assist you with each and every phase of choosing and leveraging the right backup solution for your IT environment. Our approach includes:

• An initial discovery session to understand your goals, requirements and budget
• An assessment review of your existing environment and definition of project requirements
• Detailed vendor evaluations, recommendations, future environment design and proof of concept
• Procurement, configuration and deployment of the final solution
• 24x7 telephone support as well as ongoing product lifecycle support

Contact your Account Manager or CDW Specialist today.