Welcome to the First Column IT Tech Blog

HomeBlog
Think All Your Data is Backed Up? Think Again

Think All Your Data is Backed Up? Think Again

July 10, 2024

Data backup is the glue that holds businesses together during difficult times. Despite this, many employees are still unclear on how the whole system works and what data gets backed up. Today, we want to explore this topic and clarify what typically occurs during the data backup process.

What Files Get Backed Up?

Employees often assume that their entire computer is backed up, but it’s not usually the case. The backup occurs for the server, meaning no two organizations will have the same backup experience. Generally speaking, the backup will occur for your network drive or another shared location.

That said, documents that are not stored on the server are not typically backed up if the system is not configured to do so. This includes files stored on desktops, My Documents, and Download folders. While people might believe these files get backed up, they usually are not, which can mean problems for your business if your team stores files in these locations.

If you ever need to know more about your company’s backup policies, you should consult your IT provider. They can tell you what is backed up and what is not.

Remember Your Business Apps and Data

Your server’s backup system is one thing to consider, but you must also learn more about the apps your business uses and their data policies. If employees use applications that are not backed up, it could become problematic, especially if the applications are not known to the company (a situation called shadow IT). If the data for these applications are not stored in a central location on your server, then it will not be backed up.

We recommend that you always confirm how the application backs up any data it uses or generates. This will help you avoid data loss in the future.

Understand Your Data Backup Solutions

Understanding file storage best practices and data backup solutions is your best bet to make the most of your own data backup tools. We recommend that you get a consultation from the IT professionals at First Column IT. Learn more about how we can support your business by calling us today at (571) 470-5594.

Previous Post
May 9, 2025
Adjusting Your Business IT Approach Can Bring Greater Outcomes
Is your business technology a tangled web of frustrations? You're certainly not navigating this digital dilemma alone. We frequently hear from organizations grappling with sluggish networks, outdated software that feels like a relic from the dial-up era, and the ever-present anxiety of safeguarding crucial business data.
May 7, 2025
A Quick Introduction to the Drives in Microsoft Windows
Windows is, for the most part, the default operating system you can expect to see in a business setting. That said, some owners have never used a Windows computer before, instead using a simple Chromebook or a Mac. Still, it’s good to know how Windows works, especially since it seems there’s a significant gap in knowledge.
May 5, 2025
How Your Business Can Implement Better Cybersecurity Training Practices
Cybersecurity isn’t the most fun thing to talk about, but it’s still important. This is especially for your employees who are on the front lines, the most likely folks to encounter threats during their day-to-day tasks. Today, we want to cover how your business can build better cybersecurity training practices that can keep your business secure for the long haul.

Have a project in mind?

Start with our free consultation for VA, DC and MD companies. We will provide a detailed proposal and firm quote based on your specific IT support needs. All at a predictable monthly cost per seat.
Free Consultation - Sign Up Here