The 3-2-1 backup rule that will one day save your business
A simple rule even non-technical people get — and why it matters. How to have a backup that actually works when you finally need it.
Most companies think they have a backup. The truth only shows on the day they need to restore it — and by then it’s too late to find out it doesn’t work. A simple rule helps: 3-2-1.
What 3-2-1 means
- 3 copies of your data — the original and two backups.
- 2 different media — for example a disk and the cloud.
- 1 copy off-site — so it isn’t destroyed by the same fire, theft or ransomware.
This rule covers the scenarios companies most often fall on: a failed disk, ransomware encryption, and physical damage to the building.
The most common mistake
A backup “on a disk next to the server” isn’t a backup. When the server room burns down or ransomware encrypts the whole network, it’s gone too. At least one copy must be separate and out of reach.
What it really comes down to
A backup nobody has verified is just hope. That’s why we test restores regularly — only a successful restore means the backup works.
How we do it for clients
We set up automated backups following 3-2-1, with a copy in the cloud and regular restore tests. You don’t have to worry about a thing — and when the bad day comes, your data is there. We’ll gladly set up your backup so you can rely on it.
