There are several ways to simplify the process of managing and protecting data in a small business setting – even if you lack IT experience. This story from Small Business Computing outlines six tips for setting up a better small business storage and data protection infrastructure.
“Small business owners must ask and answer many questions when it comes to storage: How much data do we need to store? Can our current solution withstand our projected business growth? Should we invest in new technologies? Do we have the ability to resume operations quickly after a disaster, such as a fire or flood?
“The good news is that there are many cost-effective options to simplify data storage. Many vendors offer straightforward and accessible solutions with a broad range of capabilities. CDW’s server and storage specialists developed the following six tips to help small businesses jumpstart the process of choosing and maintaining the right storage solution for their needs:
“1. Speak with a Human Being
“Storage is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Small businesses must work closely with vendors to choose the best solution for all current and future storage needs and requirements. Additional benefits of forming solid relationships with vendors include further insight into equipment maintenance and troubleshooting processes, the latest storage trends and capabilities and increased flexibility with pricing.
“2. Evaluate Network-Attached Storage (NAS)
“Consider replacing file servers with network attached storage (NAS) — a hard-disk, file-based data storage solution dispersed throughout a network — to handle the increasing amount of data contained in email and electronic documents. NAS provides employees with quick, centralized access to data on the network and ultimately improves data sharing.
“Most network storage devices now come with built-in data backup applications for added protection and convenience. More sophisticated devices include multiple drives that provide more data protection and expansion opportunity. Looking forward, more NAS devices will include built-in wireless connectivity, which simplifies data storage and file sharing one step further by providing direct access to data from any location in the office.”
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