Common Causes of Data Disasters

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September 17, 2013

With natural disasters occurring all over the world during the last decade, it’s easy to remember that severe weather conditions are a prominent threat to businesses. An even more severe threat to a company, however, is a data disaster.

A data disaster is when important files and documents are destroyed due to unexpected events. When those important pieces of information have been lost, carrying on as usual will prove to be very difficult.

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While natural disasters can actually be a cause of a data disaster, they are surprisingly not first on the list. The most common causes of data disasters are:

Hardware Failure

Most businesses have a main server that stores all of the company’s electronic files and can be accessed by employees on a network. The server is a physical piece of hardware and it needs to be kept safe. Even the most highly protected servers, however, can still experience unexpected malfunctions – completely or partially wiping anything stored in it. Without proper backup, that critical information is lost forever.

Human Error

Just as computers and other electronics can have internal issues that cause them to malfunction, we as humans can experience slip-ups or even moments of poor judgment that can have catastrophic results. As the saying goes, “we’re only human,” and we can make mistakes. The accidental deletion of a file or the wrong keystroke happens frequently.

Software Failure

Sometimes the programs or applications on a computer can fail on us. These failures can result in the loss of data and, in turn, possible loss of business. Viruses or glitches are what especially come to mind in regard to this category.

Security Breach and Theft

Although it is likely true that most people are honest and trustworthy, when it comes to business some can get greedy or even disgruntled. A robbery involving the theft of a computer or important piece of electronic storage can not only result in loss of data but could also put that data in the wrong hands. Furthermore, electronic storage has become so increasingly compact and portable that it is easy for someone to walk off with a hard drive completely undetected. In some cases, theft can occur without any physical intrusion at all.

Natural Disaster

It’s no secret that a natural disaster can bring down buildings or prevent employees from getting to work. They can also, however, destroy important data. Especially in cases where flooding or fires occur, electronic storage can become incredibly vulnerable.

The possible data disasters that can occur, along with their horrendous repercussions, are even more reason why it is so important to back up data. At MyITpros, we have services that can help give you peace of mind that your data is safe.

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If you’re interested in learning more, please subscribe to view upcoming articles. Our goal with this blog is to answer the questions you ask. If you have any questions about data disasters or any topic please leave a comment below or email me at [email protected].
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