Data backup options for modern enterprises
Not all backup solutions are the same, with some services better integrated and more comprehensive than others. Complete coverage requires a robust combination of prevention, data backup, and disaster recovery solutions. When multiple systems are designed and controlled together, you can ensure complete data protection and operational compliance.
What is the difference between private cloud and public cloud?
Before we define data backup services according to type, it’s important to understand the difference between private and public cloud storage deployments:
- A private cloud is designed for only one customer. To benefit from this arrangement, an organisation can either control their own cloud storage or work with an external vendor to host a private cloud for them.
- A public cloud is designed for multiple customers. In this arrangement, customers work with an external vendor. While this involves sharing cloud storage services with other customers, data is isolated and interaction doesn’t take place.
On-premises data backup
Traditional data backup services occur on-site, with organisations using various devices and backup software to store and access data when needed. A range of on-premises hardware can be used for backup services, including hard drives, disks, servers, and tape drives. Despite huge advantages in cloud computing, on-premises backup solutions remain popular with enterprises of all sizes, either in isolation or in combination with cloud services.
Hybrid cloud backup service
Traditional hybrid solutions combine legacy on-premises services with innovative cloud backup services. Hybrid cloud backups go a step further, combining public cloud computing with either on-premise infrastructure or private online backup services. Many enterprises are heavily invested in their on-premise infrastructure, with hybrid data backup solutions a common way to migrate partly to the cloud or manage a staged deployment over time.
Multi-cloud data backup services
Multi-cloud refers to the combination and integration of multiple public clouds, for services as diverse as database management, user authentication, and data backup. Just like a hybrid cloud solution, multi-cloud services offer all the benefits of data duplication, disaster recovery controls and controlled geo-redundancy. This type of service also provides the advantages of a public cloud setup, including greater access to diverse software services and experienced third-party support to protect data.
Sovereign cloud backup services
As cloud backup services evolve over time, some enterprises demand more comprehensive levels of security. Sovereign cloud backup services offer all the benefits of hybrid and multi-cloud backups. Only this time, there is an increased focus to protect data within a specific jurisdiction. Government organisations require backup, retention, and restoration services that comply with the Australian Signals Directorate standards – with an increasing focus on confidence that their data never leaves Australia’s shores. For businesses in the Critical Infrastructure sectors, now subject to recent amendments to the Security on Critical Infrastructure Act, this is increasingly a priority. These enterprises need confidence that their data stays in Australia, under the control of an Australian owned and operated cloud provider.
How do you choose the best data protection solution?
If your enterprise is migrating to the cloud, whether partially or in full, it’s important to weigh up all of your options. There are lots of factors to consider before choosing the best cloud backup service and signing a contract, from costings and control to scalability and sovereignty. When you have access to accurate information, you can make a clear decision based on the things that matter to you.
Cost
Cost is an important factor in every operational decision, and data backup is certainly not an exception. When it comes to data security cost analysis calculations must take into account the cost of data loss, reputational damage and loss of business. For example, the most affordable data backup solution involves doing nothing at all, which is obviously a short-sighted move. In general, private cloud backup deployments will be more expensive than public cloud services due to the cost benefits inherent in the hyperscaler business model, often with very little benefit.
Dedicated sovereign backup services are becoming increasingly relevant to Australian government organisations and Critical Infrastructure sector businesses simply because there is assurance that not only is the data never moved out of Australia, but it is only ever subject to Australian laws, under Australian judicial control. This cannot be said for global cloud providers who are first and foremost subject to the laws of the country in which they are owned. Under such laws, unauthorized access to the data of Australian citizens can be requested – often without the knowledge of the citizen.
When analysing costs, it’s important to be aware of opportunity costs and recognise the potential expenses involved with data loss – especially in a disaster recovery scenario. From data recovery and equipment expenses to lost business continuity and reputational damage, the costs associated with a stable, scalable enterprise cloud backup, in country, are a small price to pay for data integrity and operational confidence.
Scalability
When analysing data backup services, scalability should also be an important factor in your decision. Enterprises can expand, contract, or shift focus at a rapid rate. In this situation, business services need to pivot and adjust based on operational needs – for instance to add SaaS backup – or simply accommodate increased backup capacity. Flexibility and agility are desired attributes for many organisations, and the best cloud backup services are well-placed to support evolving business demands. This is especially true when it comes to data backup, with enterprise cloud deployments able to accommodate changing requirements without impacting business operations.
Control / manageability
Data backup solutions demand custom controls, proactive monitoring and tight integration. While cloud backup solutions are based on forward-thinking technologies, they succeed or fail depending on how they’re managed on a day-to-day basis. Consistent implementation and ongoing support are key, with enterprise clouds easier to organise, scale, and support in most situations. Sovereign cloud services provide an unmatched level of data protection and control, with enterprises benefiting from comprehensive privacy, transparency, and compliance tools as they grow over time.
Data sovereignty
From large government departments to critical infrastructure firms, jurisdictional integrity is a growing concern for many organisations. If you deal with sensitive customer records, detailed financial information, or mission-critical datasets, it’s important to retain complete control over your enterprise backup at all times. As the digital landscape continue to transform – and is indeed becoming increasingly volatile and aggressive – sovereign backup solutions provide an unmatched level of data protection. Regardless of your size or sector, your data deserves a sovereign cloud solution.
Take the next step
Are you looking for an enterprise cloud backup solution? Sovereign backups should be an integral part of your data protection and disaster recovery plans. Please contact our team to learn more about our advanced cloud solutions.
1800 282 568
