The rule
- 3 copies of your data — the live version plus two backups
- 2 different types of storage — so one failure can’t take out both
- 1 copy kept off-site — protection from fire, theft or ransomware
Why each part matters
Multiple copies protect against a single device dying. Different media protect against a whole class of failure. An off-site copy is what saves you when ransomware or a physical disaster hits the office.
The step everyone skips
A backup you’ve never restored is just a hope. Test restores on a schedule — a backup that can’t be recovered is worse than none, because it lulls you into a false sense of safety.
Making it automatic
- Automate backups so they don’t depend on anyone remembering
- Monitor them daily and get alerted the moment one fails
- Document how long a full recovery actually takes
We set up 3-2-1 backups with automated monitoring and tested restores, so “we’re backed up” actually means you’re protected.
