Like many things in our lives, data loss is not something we spend time thinking about until it happens. Mostly we don’t even like considering the risks and how to avoid them but there must be consideration given to those risks or someone dedicated to considering those possibilities so that we can prepare for them.

As we become a culture heading further into the world of information technology, data loss is becoming increasingly devastating. When it begins to rank up there with natural disasters is anyone’s guess. Perhaps sooner than we think.

How costly a loss depends on how connected to the vital aspects of our lives, information technology becomes. Here are some common causes of data loss:

Viruses and damaging malware: Viruses mostly target business data (requiring cybersecurity). There is a high and increasing number of computer viruses, with more daily, especially when you log onto the world-wide-web or participate in social networking. Most viruses attack operating systems and sit in the background where we can’t see them. Many times, data loss is a symptom of a larger and more significant illness.
Power Failures: Sometimes you can lose power during work: Speaking of natural disasters, can there be anything we take more for granted than the power grid? We only notice when it isn’t working. There’s nothing worse than losing hours of work because the power suddenly went off and you hadn’t saved. Shutting down a computer without the proper protocols can cause data loss and harm your operating system.
Deleting Files Accidentally: Accidentally deleting files is the most common way to lose data. If you do not make backups regularly, you can lose valuable files. Filing and deleting files happens all day long, and it happens quickly. Easily repeatable workflow procedures and regular backup strategies can be useful for retracing steps. Sometimes navigating a desktop can become one big shell game if you’re not paying close attention. One minute of bad judgement can cost hours of frustration. This is why easily repeatable protocols are so important.
Liquid spills: Laptops are frequently the tool of choice. They represent our ability to work from anywhere. Liquids can cause a short circuit of vital components. Certain scenarios can sometimes be a distraction and end up creating irreparable disaster. From a car seat to a coffee shop, accidents happen. The consequences in this case can be long-lasting. The best thing to do is structure to minimize the likelihood of such an event by avoiding certain situations altogether.
Mechanical damage: Hard drives break down more than any other device connected to computing. You may be able to recover data for a hefty price but many times there is simply no guarantee that even a professional can recover what you have lost. Regular backups are the solution to a hard drive failure. Equipment can be replaced, but recreating files can be a lengthy nightmare.
Theft: More than ever, criminal activity involving technology is a constant threat. From burglars to leaving equipment unattended at an airport, it is an expensive turn of events. Once again, a proper backup strategy can minimize your loss. Once you have your new computer, you can recover your data.
Fire: Although rare, once the fire burns up your sensitive equipment, it’s gone. Backing up your files off-site assures that your data won’t suffer the same fate as your desktop. So, make backups to a completely different location.

There are plenty of disaster scenarios to think about, your data doesn’t have to be one of them. Creating a plan for backing up regularly and keeping that data in different places can give you peace of mind and the knowledge that there are options. Accidents and mishaps happen unexpectedly, anticipating them makes a tremendous difference.

Call the experts at Dyrand Systems for help in setting up the systems and procedures that will help you mitigate the worst instances and impacts of critical data loss.