Monthly Archives: October 2014

Tape-based Backup is Dead

Security

tape storageTapes are probably something you haven’t heard about in a while, unless you’re referring to them in the past tense. It may surprise you to realize some businesses continue to use tapes in various capacities to protect data and it sounds antiquated, but is there something more to this than meets the eye?

Why are Tapes Still in Existence?

In answer to the question proposed in the introduction, that’s a no. Tapes are old and inferior to current backup methods. You have disks and cloud storage, to name just two options available to you. There are no situations where tapes are better.

The reason people still use them is history. They were once the king of the backup. People generally don’t like to change unless they’re forced to. As long as tapes exist, people will continue to use them because they’re familiar with them.

You’re damaging your security by doing this though. Here are some of the reasons why you should be moving away from tapes.

 Data Storage Limits

A tape will never hold as much as a disk. With computers being able to hold more data than ever, carrying big files is no sweat. It will be a problem when you attempt to store these important files on a tape. They can’t hold as much data, which means you’ll need to buy more of them or you will need to span several tapes to create a backup set.

Not only does this increase your storage costs, it’s also an organizational issue. You try making a corporation run their backups off of disks. You would have to implement a complex organizational structure to make sure you can access the correct data when you need it.

Fragility

Tapes are notoriously unreliable. They were always problematic back when they were the prime storage method of choice and nothing has changed today. The slightest jolt can damage the internals and cause it to corrupt data. As a business, you can’t afford for this to happen.

In some industries, losing important data can leave you open to legal action. Is this what you want?

No Difference in Ease of Use

What stands out most of all is the fact tapes are no easier to use than disks. Modern technology is so often more difficult to use than what came before, but this isn’t the case with disks and cloud storage. Anyone can use them, plus in many cases it’s easier and more convenient to store something online than on a tape.

Unless you’re already familiar with tapes, it would be harder to introduce someone to tapes than to simply upgrade.

Let it Die

You can store more data, save money, and become more efficient by storing your essential files on a modern storage device. Tapes have no advantages and are inferior in every single way. Don’t let your natural resistance to change damage your business security. Invest in a modern backup system today and let the tape become a relic of the past!

 

Why Companies Should Switch to VoIP

Manage Service

voip operatorVoice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the replacement for a traditional phone line. It allows you to make and receive phone calls wherever you want. It’s the natural progression of the humble telephone.

This might be the first time you’ve wondered whether a VoIP system is right for your business. In this article, we’re going to discuss why being able to communicate with this technology can benefit your organization.

What You Heard Before Doesn’t Apply

Many businesses haven’t switched to VoIP because they remember what it was like when it initially appeared. The sound quality issues have been repaired and in many cases, receiving a call over a VoIP system is superior to a traditional phone line. You also have far more features than a standard phone. Remember, VoIP harnesses the power of the Internet as well.

Reducing Costs

VoIP uses your data network to leverage calls. Traditional phone networks don’t do this. You have to use a third-party to leverage calls. By handling telecommunications yourself, you’re reducing your costs. You can save hundreds of dollars a month on incoming and outgoing calls.

For a big business, this can translate to thousands of dollars saved in the long-term.

More Flexibility

The biggest benefit of VoIP is the sheer amount of flexibility. Let’s just take a look at some of the examples relating to flexibility:

1. You can take your phone system around with you. As long as you can connect to the network in some way, you can talk wherever you want.

2. Purchase a special type of software with your package and you’ll be able to make and receive calls on your computer or laptop through a soft phone. This is ideal for companies receiving regular calls because they can be combined with specialized headsets.

3. Use virtual phone numbers. VoIP isn’t fixed to a certain geographical area. Now you can use an area code for any state in the country. This is particularly advantageous if you’re trying to give off an illusion of being a local business

Easy Movement

Moving business premises is a hassle due to the fact you have to call the phone company and get them to move your number. VoIP can work from anywhere. Your geographic location is irrelevant. It means you can move around the country and retain the same numbers.

This is particularly useful if you have a memorable number you want to keep for the sake of your customers and your marketing campaigns.

Your Control

Phone companies often vary in quality when it comes to support and the packages they offer. VoIP puts you in control. If there’s a problem with the network, you’re the one in control. You aren’t relying on a third-party to sort the problem out for you. In the world of business, this is a major advantage to your telecommunications arrangement. To make sure you do not have any problems, also install an appliance that delivers Quality of Service (QOS), which will ensure that your phones have the bandwidth necessary to make phone calls when you need to and not have the echo and chatter of the past.