What is the difference between onsite and offsite backups, and why do I need both?
An onsite backup will store a copy of your files or even a copy of your server’s ‘System State’ (or ghost) on a separate hard drive or tape that resides in the same office as the server. This is the fastest source to restore data from in the event of a failure. It is not a totally complete solution because of the big three threats—fire, theft, and malice. It is also a HIPAA compliance issue to have your patient records backed up securely offsite. Offsite backups guard against fire, theft, and malice, but bring in other security concerns at the same time. If you are swapping hard drives or tapes and transporting them home and back everyday, you are moving unencrypted data that could be read by almost anyone. Those devices could be lost, damaged, or forgotten. Also, the systems that run the simplest backups (in most offices) do not notify anyone if they are working or not. If left unattended, they stop working for one reason or another after a few months in many cases. A Managed Online B
