Friday, September 18, 2009

The Options in Data Storage

By Kazu Oda

When it comes to the world of computer, if there's one thing that has become crystal clear, it's that nothing can be expected to stay the same for long. Technology moves ahead at amazingly fast speeds and the average computer user must be constantly examining what is available just to keep pace.

For this reason, data storage is becoming big business. Each office needs a way to insure its files, either directly within their system or outsourced to a reputable contractor who specializes in securing data. There are many products and services available that make this easier than ever.

In business, security is a major area of investment. Being able to ensure that information is safe brings a sense of trust and integrity to each of your business ventures. If you experience a breach, your clients and customers become nervous about their private information and may even go elsewhere for the service or product you provide. The first line of defense for secure data storage is on site. You must initially make sure that your actual computer or computer network is as protected as possible.

Threats generally come from one of two directions. First, you have the standard virus or malware, in which vulnerable computers are randomly targeted. This can happen to any system that is not adequately protected. Also, larger companies are also vulnerable to specific hacking attempts, in which a criminal mines your system for personal information. By having safety protocols in place, you can detect and eliminate these front line attacks.

On the next level, we find what is commonly being called network attached storage or NAS. In this type of set up, the data storage is handled on the level of your computer network. There are several ways that this occurs. Some companies actually provide their own storage system and allow all the computer in their network to have access to the files at will.

Others are turning to an Internet based storage solution, in which they employ an online company to export all their information, file it and then return it to the network when needed. These Internet based services are also available to the home computer user as well for a very reasonable fee.

The most removed type of data storage solution that is available is designated as the storage area network or SAN. This is a specialized business that deals entirely in off site storage solutions. The company delivers their data to an outside facility and they provide a secure storage environment. The facility may or may not allow computer access to the data. In general, however, it is the responsibility of the company to manage the data and the data warehouse will likely provide only storage. This solution can be a bit more inconvenient, but it has safety protocols that make it a very good backup plan. It is most often used in conjunction with on site or network based storage, giving the best of both security and accessibility.

Whatever solution you use, you will likely want to doubly insure your data. When dealing with data storage, it is important to plug all the potential weak spots. First, you should get a reliable local storage solution that can be kept on hand. Then, it would be a good idea to look into Internet based or off site solutions for greater reliability. By taking this multi-tiered approach, the best results can be achieved. - 22787

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