Disclaimer: Replacing a hard drive requires some technical skills and knowledge. If you do not feel confident completing any of these steps, it’s best to seek professional assistance.

Step 1: Gather the necessary tools prior to swapping out your failed hard drive:

• Replacement hard drive: Buy your new hard drive with specifications that match your old one. Keep in mind factors such as storage capacity and interface (SATA or NVMe) as well as physical size (2.5-inch or 3.5-inch).
• Screwdriver set: Most hard drives require a Phillips-head screwdriver for removal and installation. Check the size needed for your specific case.
• Anti-static wrist strap: Protect your hardware from static electricity by wearing an anti-static wrist strap or by touching a grounded metal object before handling any components.
• External storage device: If you want to recover data from the failed hard drive, you may need an external storage device to temporarily store the data.

Step 2: Backup your data (if possible) 

If your failed hard drive is still accessible, it’s crucial to back up your important data before proceeding with the replacement. Connect an external storage device to your computer and copy the necessary files and folders.

Step 3: Power down your computer 

Shut down your computer and unplug it from the power source. You need to have your system completely powered off to avoid electrical damage or acidents.

Step 4: Open your computer case 

Locate the screws or latches securing the computer case and remove them. Carefully slide off or open the case to expose the internal components. Note that the exact process may vary depending on your computer’s make and model.

Step 5: Locate the failed hard drive

Identify the failed hard drive within your computer. It is usually located near the front of the case, secured in a drive bay. The hard drive is typically connected to the motherboard via cables and fixed with screws or brackets.

Step 6: Disconnect cables and remove the failed hard drive 

Gently unplug the cables connected to the hard drive, including the power and data cables. Keep in mind the orientation of the connectors for proper reinstallation later. Then, unscrew or remove any brackets or fasteners securing the hard drive to the drive bay.

Step 7: Replace the failed hard drive with the new one

Take your new hard drive and carefully connect the power and data cables to the corresponding ports. Ensure a secure connection, but avoid using excessive force. Place the hard drive into the drive bay and fasten it using screws or brackets.

Step 8: Close your computer case 

With the new hard drive installed, slide the cover back on/ reattach it with screws or latches. Be sure that it is firmly in place to prevent any loose connections or accidental damage.

Step 9: Power on your computer and configure the new hard drive 

Connect your computer to the power source and turn it on. Enter the BIOS or UEFI settings (usually by pressing a specific key during startup) and verify that the new hard drive is detected. If necessary, adjust the boot order to prioritize the new hard drive.

Step 10: Restore data (if applicable)

If you backed up your data in Step 2, you can now restore it to your new hard drive. Connect the external storage device containing the backed-up data. Then copy that data back to the appropriate directories on the new hard drive.

Conclusion

Replacing a failed hard drive can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, you can successfully restore your system’s functionality. With the help of our step-by-step guide, you should be able to replace the failed hard drive to get your computer up and running again. 

Remember to handle the hardware delicately and seek professional help if needed.

The post The Correct Way to Swap Out your Failed Hard drive appeared first on Wowrack Blog.

Simply put, vulnerability is a weakness that actors can use to infiltrate or access computer systems. Today, we are reminded of this vulnerability with the rise of the Log4j vulnerability.

This article will provide you with information regarding the log4j vulnerability. In addition, we also provide information in reducing or avoiding this vulnerability’s danger as a private or corporate entity.

What is the Log4j Vulnerability

Cybersecurity is a critical field to understand, especially in the digital age. While there are many glaring cybersecurity threats, such as viruses, ransomware, or phishing attacks, we often forget about the danger that arises from our own devices.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology defines vulnerability as a weakness or flaw within the security procedure, design, implementation, or internal controls that could accidentally trigger or exploit, resulting in a security breach.

The log4j is a Java-based logging utility used by billions of electronic devices to provide background information. It means, both private and business sectors who use Java-based programing language are running a risk of vulnerability in their systems. Several examples of these are websites, work applications, and even games.

CIO Dive reported that the log4j vulnerability works in a way that allows bad actors to gain access to IT systems without the use of authentication. The danger of this vulnerability doubles with how easily bad actors can exploit this vulnerability. Just a simple line of code is sufficient to access your system. Currently, Bitdefender has found out that bad actors are attempting to steal data or planting “Khonsari,” ransomware installed through backdoors and remote shells. It shows the possibility of a more dangerous attack from this vulnerability.

Mitigation of the Log4j Vulnerability

Vulnerable does not mean unfixable. With the world’s best IT practitioner and cybersecurity professional currently putting its attention to the log4j vulnerability, there is a big chance that a fix is on the way.

However, while we are waiting for fixes to be available, cyberattack threats will continue to linger around our IT systems. Therefore, while we are waiting for the patch that fixes this vulnerability, private and corporate can take preventative action to mitigate the vulnerability.

1. Use the Most Up-to-Date Version of Application

Firstly, the log4j vulnerability almost exists for all software based on the Java programming language. However, you can rest assured that most companies that develop software are already aware of the situation and the severity of the vulnerability.

It is crucial for both private and business to immediately patch up their software to the most up-to-date version. A temporary patch or hotfix can help mitigate the possibility of damage caused by the vulnerability.

2. Ensure Firewall is Active

Secondly, an attempt to access your IT systems through the log4j exploit will primarily use the internet connection as the medium. You will find malicious traffics attempting to break into your system. It may employ “spray and pray” or constant targeting techniques from the bad actors.

Ensuring your firewall protocol is active is one way to deter and reduce such attempts at your systems. Furthermore, if you already use additional firewall protection such as web application firewall (WAF), check if there is any new information, policy, or patch update regarding the exploit.

3. Constantly Backup Your Data

Then, as the vulnerability affects software applications and servers, ensuring your data backup is ready to use is essential. It ensures continuity if the data within your primary database is inaccessible. The biggest reason it might happen is primarily due to patch updates of the server.

4. Identifying Vulnerable Systems

The last step private and enterprises can take are identifying which systems are vulnerable to the exploit. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency has already compiled all of the currently known software liable to the log4j exploit. In other word, it contains recommended actions that an entity can take if such software is used in the system.

Preventing Future Vulnerabilities

It is now generally accepted that the cost and effort required in creating preventative measures are significantly less than the cost of dealing with the fallout of a cybersecurity breach. In fact, business benefit $4 for every $1 it spend on cybersecurity effort.

While the current vulnerability is so massive in scope and may affect most IT users, properly investing in cybersecurity effort is worth doing. Especially for the protection and reduction in cost post-attack in the future.

In Wowrack, we can provide enterprises with a dedicated cybersecurity team available 24/7. We develop our in-house system to detect and respond to threats before they appear and disturb business workflow. We understand that a particular enterprise may have compliances that need to be followed. In this, we are confident that we can adjust our security service to follow the standards and compliances of your business.

Discover how Wowrack can be your best partner in protecting and safekeeping your data from today’s cybersecurity threats. Reach out to us now!

The post The Log4j Vulnerability: What You Should Know appeared first on Wowrack Blog.

Ransomware has become the root cause of many business infrastructure failures with staggering financial losses. The average cost to remediate a ransomware attack is about US$730,000, if the ransom isn’t paid. Surprisingly, the number escalates to $1.4million if the ransom is paid. Another worrying fact about ransomware attacks is that the number increased by 150% in 2020 as people started to embrace remote working or WFH. It is a threat that any business can’t afford to ignore.

Frankly speaking, no strategies could completely protect you from ransomware. For that reason, the best plan of action is to ensure the company is prepared to recover after the attack happens. Securing your data backup is critical to that process.

4 Steps to Ensure Your Backup Works against Ransomware

Do The Backup

The first thing is, obviously, do your backup. Conduct it correctly and regularly. What we suggest is to perform a 3-2-1 backup strategy. To do it properly, you need to have, at least, three total copies of your data. Two on-site/local backups on different mediums or devices and at least one off-site.

Having multiple copies of your data ensures you a higher probability of a successful recovery. Logically, you can always recover your data even if one of your backups cannot be accessed due to ransomware attacks or any other reasons.

Test the Backup and Recovery

The second step is to routinely test your backups to ensure that they truly work. During the tests, it is common to uncover things like missing software install disks and license keys that don’t refresh after recovery. For that reason, it is necessary to also store such data as install disks and license keys outside of your backup copies.

Wowrack recommends scheduling a regular test. How often you schedule the tests depends on your risks and data importance. One backup schedule does not fit all needs since different companies have different levels of tolerance. If you are not sure how often you should test your backup, you can always consult to an expert in the field.

Create and Document a Plan

Thirdly, it is necessary to create and document your plan. In the heat of the moment, it is easy to lose your way or spend critical time figuring out what to do. To put it simply, creating and documenting your plan ahead of time relieves possible stress and minimizes mistakes.

Some things to keep in mind while creating your plan are your Recovery Point Objective (RPO) and Recovery Time Objective (RTO). RPO determines how much data the business can afford to lose between backups. Meanwhile, RTO specifies the time required for system recovery.

Another tip: data worth paying extra attention to while creating the plan is Payroll and Accounts Payable/Receivable. Typically, recovering and rebuilding these data sets must be your top priority.

Separate Backups from Production

Finally, we suggest backing up off your domain to help keep your data secured. We also recommend using a unique and hard-to-guess username and password that is different from the administrator accounts. If possible, do not make a username that mimics your email address template.

Some service providers also strengthen your security by separating your backups from production. Wowrack, for instance, creates a backup network using separate NIC cards and specific ports to give you extra protection. Doing this inhibits bad actors from gaining access to your backup environment. Another extra but effective technique is having a data vault to store your backup that prevents deletion by any means other than expiration of a specific timestamp.

Bonus Recovery Tips

Even after recovery, however, similar ransomware attacks can still take place. This does not mean that your plans fail as ransomware can possibly reload during system restoration. Most of the time, the date when the ransomware attack began cannot be determined accurately. There is always a possibility that you recover a backup with ransomware in it.

To prevent it from happening, we encourage you to only recover data. Do fresh application installs instead of recovering the whole applications. By only recovering data, you can decrease the chances of reloading ransomware during system restoration.

The post 4 Steps to Protect Backup from Ransomware appeared first on Wowrack Blog.

Ever since the beginning of the pandemic, daily IT usage has increased significantly across the globe, including in the US. With greater IT usage comes greater IT needs, specifically for businesses.

Nowadays, IT is no longer exclusive for specific types and sizes of businesses as every single business needs IT to maintain their continuity. According to a survey published on Small Business Trends, 92% of US small businesses has migrated to IT-driven business models to maintain continuity and productivity.

Additionally, businesses need IT tools to support remote working or enable their customers access their services digitally. In other words, this means that almost all businesses—perhaps yours too—are adapting to a new way of doing stuffs. Adaptation might seem complicated and difficult but, still, business must go on.

That’s where Wowrack can help you.

What Wowrack Does

We at Wowrack understand that any business wants to remain productive during this kind of circumstance as we have also witnessed this occurrence by ourselves. Many of our existing and new clients have told us that they also need more IT services to boost their productivity.

Some of the services that our existing and new clients need to help their businesses running these days are:

• Managed Private Cloud Service
  Private cloud is a single tenant, client-specific cloud computing customized specially to your actual needs. This service is getting more critical as every business needs a more secure and flexible IT infrastructure to meet their diverse needs.
  
  
• Disaster Recovery and Backup Services
  Disaster recovery and backup services is not only critical but also integral to business continuity plan and management. What Wowrack does to accommodate this is that we can flexibly adjust the service delivery to your budgetary and system needs without risking the quality and security.
  
  
• Hybrid Cloud Management
  Since IT needs are getting diverse, we understand that one type of clouds does not fit all needs. That is why we can manage your different cloud infrastructure or on-premises, you name it.
  
  
• And many more to mention.
  
  

How Wowrack Can Help You

During these surreal times, we completely understand that everyone is desperately trying to survive. That’s why we won’t exploit you. What we want is a relationship that mutually benefits you and us. Accordingly, here’s how we can help you.

• Accommodating Your Actual Needs
  We will deliver what you actually need instead of what you think you need. This has been part of our client-centric commitment since we started our journey two decades ago.
  
  
• Working Professionally alongside You
  We commit ourselves to become a true cloud partner, so we will do our best to do so. We are 24/7 ready to assist you with what you need. Of course, by 24/7, we really mean it.
  
  
• Delivering the Best Services and Products Possible
  It’s true that we can adjust our services to your budget, but we won’t give you a second-rate service. Once we’re in agreement, we will deliver our best team, services, and products for you.
  
  
• Managing Your IT Needs
  In this difficult time, we understand that it’s taxing for you to think of your core business and manage your IT at the same time. Rest assured as we can manage your IT needs so you can focus on maintaining your business.
  
  

How You Can Help Us

Actually, we also need your help to understand you better. To do so, you can consult with our team. We will listen to your needs so that we can execute and deliver what you need better.

The post What Wowrack Does—And How We Can Help You appeared first on Wowrack Blog.

NTFS is the primary file system for recent versions of Windows and Windows Server, that provides a full set of features including security descriptors, encryption, disk quotas, and rich metadata, and can be used with Cluster Shared Volumes (CSV) to provide continuously available volumes that can be accessed simultaneously from multiple nodes of a failover cluster.

So, what is ReFS?

Resilient File System (ReFS) is Microsoft’s newest file system, that designed to maximize data availability, scale efficiently to large data sets across diverse workloads, and provide data integrity by means of resiliency to corruption. The ReFS used to detect all types of disk corruption, data striping and also copy-on-write features. ReFS is a newest system of Windows based on NTFS, and in other words, this is an update system to complete the Windows NTFS system.

Basically, the ReFS system is better than the NTFS system. Because the NTFS system has several limitations that have been improved by the system. ReFS supports features that already exist in NTFS such as BitLocker encryption, access control lists for security, USN journaling, change notifications, symbolic links, junction points, mount points, reparse points, volume snapshots, file IDs, and OpLocks.

How does it work?

ReFS uses checksums for metadata and optionally for data files and has the ability to detect damage reliably. Additionally it can automatically repair detected damage using alternative data copies provided by Storage Spaces. ReFS can delete corrupt data when the volume is damaged and a copy of the data is damaged and it can handle most irreparable damage. ReFS introduces a data integrity scanner, known as a scrubber, which can periodically scans volumes, identifies damage and proactively triggers corrupt data repair. However, this system cannot be used for booting PCs or used in external media such as USB flash disks or memory cards.

Some of the advantages of ReFS compared to NTFS include the field of hyper-V and backup applications.

On Hyper-V, ReFS has some advantages:

1. The “Block Cloning” feature can accelerate copy operations, enabling quick, low-impact VM checkpoint merge operations, which in turn reduces the disk I/O load
2. The “Sparse VDL” feature can zero files rapidly, reducing the time needed to create fixed VHDs from 10s of minutes to mere seconds.

However, it’s not suitable for SAN-based cluster shared storage, at least for now, because the Hyper-V cluster will always put the ReFS CSV on “File System Redirected” mode, which caused the owner node to be the only one accessing the SAN, while the other nodes are accessing the storage over the cluster network (I’ve seen no SAN traffic flowing on the other nodes, only on the owner node). See below for more details:

This is on a ReFS CSV:

BlockRedirectedIOReason: NotBlockRedirected

FileSystemRedirectedIOReason: FileSystemReFs

Name: HVC-Prod-Disk3

Node: WOWHVC3

StateInfo: FileSystemRedirected

VolumeFriendlyName: HVC-Prod-Disk3

VolumeName: \\?\Volume{ee02dcb9-8066-458f-8fb4-cc974f8be89a}\

And this is on a NTFS CSV:

BlockRedirectedIOReason: NotBlockRedirected

FileSystemRedirectedIOReason : NotFileSystemRedirected

Name: HVC-Prod-Disk1

Node: WOWHVC3

StateInfo: Direct

VolumeFriendlyName: HVC-Prod-Disk1

VolumeName: \\?\Volume{7973af21-ee14-4d9e-aada-314e8b8d8850}\

With NTFS, all nodes are accessing the SAN storage using DirectIO, which should give us better performance.

But ReFS is okay for Storage Spaces Direct (S2D) configuration, since there is no shared storage anyway (every nodes have direct-attached disks) so all access is essentially redirected.

For Backup Applications, the advantages are as follows:

System Center DPM 2016 is actually using the resilient file system by default for the backup storage, as it utilizes the “block-cloning” technology on ReFS to accelerate the backup process. It’s a part of the “Modern Backup Storage” technology that SCDPM 2016 offers.

DPM 2016 uses block cloning to store backups on ReFS volumes. Instead of using copy-on-write to store backups (which was used by VolSnap in DPM 2012 R2), DPM 2016’s block cloning uses allocate-on-write. This change improves IOPS efficiency, making backups nearly 70% faster.

Veeam also recommends ReFS for the backup storage, as it also utilizes the same “block cloning” technology on ReFS (Veeam calls it “fast cloning capability”) to speed up the backup process.

Version 9.5 leverages the fast cloning capability in ReFS API to create synthetic backups without moving the data blocks between files, and instead, references backup file blocks already present on the volume. This means all manipulations associated with synthetic full backups are limited to metadata updates and require no actual I/O operations on backed up data.

Another advantage of using ReFS for backup storage is: it enables us to scale-up the backup storage capacity up to 35 PB (compared to a maximum of 256TB on NTFS)

So, to conclude this story:

1. On Hyper-V Cluster, use NTFS on SAN-based storage, and use ReFS on Storage Spaces Direct (S2D) storage
2. On a Standalone Hyper-V server, use ReFS so that we can take advantage of the “Block Cloning” and “Sparse VDL” feature, which can accelerate VM checkpoint merge operations and fixed VHD creation. However, please be advised that a ReFS partition can be expanded, but cannot be shrunk, so if you know that you will need to shrink the partition in the future, please use NTFS.
3. On Backup servers using SCDPM 2016 or Veeam B&R 9.5, use ReFS on the Backup Disk/Storage to accelerate the backup process

Curious what Wowrack can do for you? Contact us today to learn more!

The post Microsoft’s ReFS vs NTFS system Which is Better? appeared first on Wowrack Blog.

No Backup Service Means Potential Disaster

Your data storage location can make all the difference in terms of security. Do you store all of your files onsite? You may want to reconsider. Onsite data is more vulnerable than offsite data for two major reasons. First, onsite data can become a relatively easy target for hackers. Remote service encryption stays one step ahead of hackers, who are constantly learning and adjusting their techniques. Onsite data protection can’t change unless you change it. How often do you remember to update your storage security measures? Second, hardware-only files are only as physically safe as the computers on which you store them. Floods, fires, and other natural disasters can wipe away important information if you don’t have a way to get those files back. You may or may not have a plan to protect employees in case of emergency. Do you have a plan to protect your data too?

You Need to Protect Critical Data

Some industries absolutely need a backup service. They protect more critical data than others. The financial sector protects information that could destroy livelihoods if it became vulnerable. The healthcare industry stores highly sensitive information. Patients trust that their privacy stays safe within medical facilities. If a disaster breaks that trust, a medical facility could find itself in extreme legal and financial trouble. Offsite encryption keeps this data safe. Even if your business remains outside of finance or medicine, you can still ensure protection with offsite backup. The added protection leads to added trust with your clients, which means that you retain your customers for repeat business.

Solutions for Business Growth

If you want to grow your business, a backup service will help. Offsite storage will make your life easier. You won’t have to update security, buy more hardware, or expand your own storage. Instead, you can focus on other areas of growth. Your backup service will manage your data for you. Backup services are scalable, meaning that they grow with your needs. As your business expands, so does your storage. You’ll get the added benefit of IT support as well. With onsite storage, you’ll have limited support as you increase your data. With a backup service, experts stand ready to answer any questions you may have.

Why Wowrack?

At Wowrack, we value our clients just as much as you value yours. We provide safe, easy storage solutions so that you can keep your peace of mind and run your business efficiently. If you’re ready to give your data maximum protection, click here to get started with a no-obligation consultation.

The post Three Reasons Why You Need a Backup Service appeared first on Wowrack Blog.

Here’s why:

Expand Your Business

Choosing a cloud hosting option that’s scalable gives you the best opportunity to have your network grow with your business in the future. Many companies hold off on moving to the cloud because they feel as though they aren’t quite ready to do so. Perhaps they don’t yet have the funds or the client-base to make that kind of change. However, making the move to the cloud in the beginning stages will not only make your business more accessible to more people, but it will also allow you to save money in the long run. This is because most MSPs offer scalable solutions, so you don’t need to pay for what you aren’t using right now — you can always make the necessary upgrades later on.

Take More Time for What Matters

Turning to an MSP means that in addition to gifting your company a brand new infrastructure set-up next year, you will also have the support of a professional provider. This means they will manage everything, while you continue doing the many jobs you need to do as a company leader. If you have a lot of projects you’re hoping to get done next year, managing your network shouldn’t get in the way. Make it your resolution to work on what you need to do, while an MSP stays on top of the rest. After all, why risk losing all the hard work you’ve done when your MSP can provide amazing backup and disaster recovery solutions?

Wowrack wants you to be on the right track for next year. Contact us to learn more.

Keep the Important Jobs in the Hand of Professionals

Is not knowing who to trust holding you back from making some changes for next year? That’s understandable, and exactly why we stress the importance of making sure you can trust your MSP. This is why Wowrack offers data center tours to ensure you’re getting a good look at the services you’ll be receiving. Therefore, you can feel confident knowing that this important job lies in the hands of a  dedicated team of experts. There will always be someone available that can solve the problem your network may be presenting, but ultimately, the team will help recognize any problems well before they occur.

Also, it helps to know that if something does happen — for instance, a data breach — you won’t necessarily be the one held completely responsible.

Provide Consistent Customer Satisfaction

Lastly, a major goal you should have for the upcoming year is to continue growing that trust between you and your clients. One of the ways to achieve this is by maximizing your security standards, thereby ensuring your customers that you’re doing everything in your power to mitigate risks that could have the potential to leak their information. This is why, depending on the industry you’re in, it’s so important to practice compliance laws. Opting for the services of an MSP as one of your New Year’s resolutions will help you bring in more customers, and improve your CRM overall. Additionally, it will keep you safe from problems like shut-downs, delays, data disasters, breaches, and visits from auditors. A strong approach to this means happy customers.

So, what’s the hold up? Let us help you achieve the New Year’s resolutions you have for your company.

The post Turning to Managed Services Should be Your Company’s New Year Resolution appeared first on Wowrack Blog.

That’s why you should consider doing a tour of your prospective data center, before signing a contract.

Why Visit the Data Center

Even though your data is going to soon be managed in the cloud, that cloud still has to exist in a physical space somewhere. A data center is a place where a network of servers is kept. These servers handle a lot of data (in this case, your company’s data) and keep it safe, secure, and accessible for whenever you need it. Of course, some data centers are better at doing this job than others.

By visiting the actual data center, you can have a first-hand look at these servers. Just like the same way you would check out a building before signing a lease or scoping out a restaurant before choosing to sit down, it’s very similar.

What You Should Be Looking Out For

When you go on a tour of the data center, there are a few things you want to be paying attention to. One is you want to see the overall conditions of the center. If it looks pretty dusty, there are wires all over the place, and you can feel the intense heat coming off the machines, then those are all big red flags.

You want to make sure this data center is secure, has a cooling system that you can feel, and that it seems to be organized and well maintained. If this is where your data is going to be stored, it’s important that things are in a good place.

Wowrack offers potential clients tours of our data centers, so you can feel certain about signing on with us. Contact us today to schedule a visit.

What You Should Ask and Think About During and After Your Visit

While you’re visiting your prospective data center, you’re going to want to ask some questions about the place, so you can know information beyond what you can just see with your eyes.

• What’s this data center’s network capacity?
• Is the location of the data center in a place that’s prone to storms natural disasters?
• Does it have a generator or some other kind of backup solution if the power goes out?
• What were some challenges this data center has faced and how did they recover?
• How’s the physical security of the building?
• In addition to 24/7 management, is there in-house support in case something goes wrong?
• Is the data center facility free of any law-suits/financially secure?

When inquiring about the services of a managed hosting provider, ask them if you can take a tour of their data centers. If that’s not something they offer, move on to the next candidate.

The post Why You Should Consider Doing a Tour of Your Prospective Data Center appeared first on Wowrack Blog.

Doesn’t your company deserve the same protection? After all, how do you plan on keeping business moving when the unexpected happens?

The Cost of a Disaster on Your Business

It goes without saying that even the smallest of IT disruptions can wreak havoc on your business. According to research done by Information Week, out of the 200 companies surveyed, the total cost of any IT downtime was over 26 billion. That translates to $150,000 lost annually by each company.

Not only is it a financial loss, but it’s also a long-term catastrophe. Companies who experience any type of IT shut-down, whether it’s due to a hack or a power-outage, can leave a bad taste with their clients. Their clients are going to be less likely to trust this company in the future, and may go with a competitor instead. Ultimately, the effects are long term.

Therefore, it’s no question that having a plan when disaster strikes is imperative. Just choosing the right provider with a solid approach is a major step in the right direction.

What is DRaas and How It Can Specifically Help YOU

Disaster Recovery as a Service, or DRaas, is a unique solution to disaster recovery designed by an expert provider catered specifically to your company’s needs. No two businesses are the same, whether it’s the size of their clientele, the type of industry they’re in, or the profits made. This means that your DRaas solution will be quite different from the next guy’s.

Your provider will help plan and design, architect, and deploy your disaster recovery solution from start to finish. This way, you’re fully prepared if and when a problem occurs. It will be your very own, fully managed, custom environment, that you can rely on. And, it doesn’t need to be expensive, either, as your provider can help you find a solution that fits your budget just as well as everything else.

Wowrack offers budget-friendly and high-quality DRaas packages that will fit your company’s’ needs. Contact us today to learn more.

How Your Provider Keeps Business Continuity

The most important thing any DRaas does is allow your business to keep moving if you get stalled by an IT interruption, whatever that may be. Sometimes, these interruptions can take some time to discover and solve, and you don’t want to have to keep your business waiting around in the meantime. As mentioned before, that can result in huge loss for your business.

Wouldn’t it be better to pay a little more to have that peace of mind? Knowing that you’ll be okay even if disaster strikes is a huge weight lifted off your shoulders.

With the right DRaas solution, you provider goes through a series of steps to make sure your business continues running in the event of a disaster.

After your provider audits you in order to understand what your current IT situation stands, they’ll engineer a plan using their own internal procedures and tools that will be very similar to the infrastructure you’re already using. Once that’s taken care of, your provider will get ready to deploy that solution any time, anywhere, and will test it first to make sure it’s ready to go. Finally, your provider will constantly monitor your systems to make sure your data stays safe and your disaster recovery solution is ready to go at any moment.

With a DRaas, there’s no need to worry anymore. If something happens, your data will be protected and easy to retrieve in an instant. Meanwhile, your provider handles everything behind the scenes, so you can keep business going without IT interruptions getting in the way.

The post How Your Provider Can Help You When Disaster Strikes appeared first on Wowrack Blog.

What exactly is cloud backup?

In simplest terms, cloud backup is the ability of storing data and software applications on external servers. These servers are generally located in a remote facility. 

There are dedicated companies to maintain cloud backup services; they lease out virtual storage space to customers who are in need. Generally, such service is offered for a monthly or annual fee which may depend on the service provider and the necessity of the customer.

It is then the cloud backup service provider’s responsibility to establish necessary security measures to protect the stored information while allowing respective clients to access the backup 24/7 without any interruption whatsoever.

Mechanism of Cloud backup

Cloud servers allow all the digital data to be stored including software packages, media files like audio and video, pictures, documents, databases, emails etc.

Once the customer subscribed for the service, they will have an uninterrupted, fast, reliable and secured access to the server (via internet). 

Automated systems will run at scheduled increments, backing up either entire drives or segmentations of files.

Protection of cloud backup

Cloud backup service providers focus on two main aspects in terms of securing the stored data;

• Prevent data theft

• Prevent data loss

Preventing data theft

Understanding the seriousness of the data stored, cloud backup service providers have taken sophisticated security precautions (with ultimate encryption levels which are sometimes stronger even than the ones used in banks) and stay one step ahead of the potential hackers.

Preventing Data Loss

Reputable cloud backup systems take supreme measures to prevent data loss since their existence in the industry depends on the reliability. They use multiple servers that are located in various facilities and use several energy sources to power up those servers assuring state-of-the-art protection against data loss.

Unlike earlier days, cloud backup services are available for very affordable rates. Companies or individuals can select the best matching plans that comply with the budget after referring the packages and comparing them to your needs.

Learn more about the Wowrack Cloud Backup service.

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