Whether it’s through theft or a natural disaster, you’ll lose data at some point — and your only protection is a backup copy. That’s why it is so crucial to have a comprehensive backup and archiving solution that helps you safeguard your business-critical information.
You know how important your accounting and other files are, but you’re not exactly sure how often you should back up, what type of storage device to use, or how to install and configure backup software. Expert help in setting up a backup and archiving solution is available via the Apple Solution Experts Programme, a nationwide team of seasoned consultants who can bring a high level of technical knowledge and expertise in the latest Apple and third-party products and services to your company. 
Many Apple Solution Expert members have years of experience in establishing comprehensive backup strategies and installing easy-to-use solutions. They can work with you to install, configure and maintain a backup and archiving solution that protects you against devastating data loss. They are well versed in the many backup software applications available and can recommend the one that is best for you. If you have MacBook or MacBook Pro computers that come and go, members of the Apple Solution Experts programme can even ensure that they are recognised and backed up automatically whenever they connect to your network. Members can also devise successful backup and restore solutions for cross-platform networks.
Step 1: Determine your needs, requirements and budget
First establish your goals and requirements for backup, storage and archiving. Yo’ll need to consider factors such as the types of computers on your network, amount of data, type of storage device, compression and data security. Members of the Apple Solution Experts Programme can help you better understand your needs and optimise your backup and archiving solution, ensuring that you have ample storage capacity and a convenient and secure way of backing up all of the data on your network. In addition to sizing up your technical needs, determine how much you have to spend. Apple Solution Expert members can develop a solution that fits your budget.
Step 2: Determine the elements of your solution
Next, you’ll need to determine what you need, including storage and network devices and backup software. First, be sure that your network will support fast data transfer so your productivity doesn’t suffer when you’re backing up data. If you have an AirPort Extreme wireless network or a 100BaseT network hub, either one will ensure fast, efficient backups. Next, gauge your storage needs. For example, if you’re editing digital video or working with large graphics files, you’ll need 200GB of storage space or more. In this case, consider backing up your data to an Xserve with the dual-core Intel Xeon processor. If you need additional space, you can opt to add Xserve’s companion, Xserve RAID. And, with Xsan, Apple’s award-winning SAN (Storage Area Network) file system, multiple computers can concurrently access terabytes of storage over high-speed Fibre Channel. But, if your business generates mostly smaller Microsoft Office and Adobe PDF files, then CDs, DVDs, or an external FireWire or SCSI drive will probably meet your storage needs.
Members of the Apple Solution Experts programme can also help you select backup software. They may recommend using Backup software that comes with a subscription to .Mac, Apple’s suite of integrated Web services. Or, they may leverage backup solutions such as Dantz Retrospect Workgroup Backup or Server Backup, capable of backing up entire networks of Macs to centralised storage systems. If you run a small business, your best bet might be Synchronize! Pro X from Qdea, a cost-effective, intuitive backup solution for Mac OS X.
Step 3: Set up your backup solution
Members of the Apple Solution Expert Programme can help you add a storage device to your network, select and install the appropriate software, and configure it properly. They can be sure that the storage device you’re using is compatible with your backup software and establish compression and data encryption strategies, if necessary. They will also consider data security. For example, your backup drive should be placed in a secure location where it is protected from fire or theft. A removable storage device such as an external FireWire drive is a convenient alternative, because you can unplug it and take it with you if you plan to be gone from the office for a long period of time.
Apple Solution Expert programme members can help you decide where to back up your data such as on an external device, a server, or another designated computer. They can also help you set up backup folders on each user’s machine. Once your backup solution is implemented, members can test it to be sure it will work reliably, set backups to occur automatically, and train you and your staff on the solution.
Step 4: Obtain ongoing support and maintenance
As your business grows, so does your data. Members of the Apple Solution Experts programme can add new capacity by upgrading and reconfiguring your backup and storage equipment. They can also provide training and any follow-up service you may need. They can bring a high level of technical expertise to your company on an as-needed basis, without the expense of a full-time IT staff.
