Floods, lightning, hurricanes, earthquakes, fire and tornadoes are some of the natural disasters that could damage data storage devices. Data theft and sabotage are also rampant in the world of internet technology and companies need to protect themselves against this.

Viruses spring up out of nowhere and can corrupt files, hard drives, programs and operating systems leading to data loss.

Contrary to its name, a hard drive is a device that is less than hardy and susceptible to constant failure. Hard drive failures that lead to data loss are caused due to head crashes, electrostatic shocks, power surges, overheating and short circuit problems.

Backup media do not make a user immune to data loss. Most backup media are susceptible to damage by environment (dust, heat, humidity etc.), rough handling and by being misplaced.

Preventing Data Loss

While it is true that on a bad day nothing can prevent you from losing data, keeping some tips in mind can help prevent unnecessary data loss.

It is advisable for the computer to be stored in a cool and dry area to prevent overheating. Large servers require air conditioning. Investing in some form of uninterrupted power supply will prevent data loss due to power surges and fluctuations.

If damage has been caused to a server or hard drive, one must restrain from attempting to dismantle or set it right as this can result in permanent data loss. In such an event, it is best to take the damaged device to a professional to retrieve data.

Remember to backup, backup, backup. The key to preventing data loss is to always be prepared and to regularly backup files and programs. There are several storage media of varying capacities and prices to suit different backup needs. However, backup devices like CDs, DVDs etc may not be completely suitable for large storage volumes. They are also susceptible to damage and loss. To ensure safety of these backup media one must be careful to store them in a clean environment. Also, since their lifespan is not very long, one must make backups of backups regularly. While portable hard drives and flash drives are hardier, they can be misplaced so one must be careful when carrying them around.

The recent buzz in preventing data loss is remote backup. Remote backup solutions offer a safe haven for data. In the event of a natural disaster, business can go on as usual as the critical files can be accessed from the remote location or online. Since this is an automatic process, one does not have to worry about forgetting to backup.

Most users install anti-virus software to prevent viruses from corrupting files and losing data in this manner.

Further Warning

One can never be too careful when it comes to preventing data loss. When using a hotel or public computer, it is wise to erase the computer’s cache files, history files and cookie files before exiting.

One must be careful about accessing password protected Internet sites when using a public computer, as hackers on the prowl can easily access this information.

Portable computers should have their own firewalls and be installed with the most updated anti-virus software.

One must avoid eating or drinking near a computer.

Retrieving Lost Data

While data loss is a rampant problem, the good news is that 90% of the time, data can be recovered. If the problem is simple, fairly knowledgeable users can use relevant software to sort out the problem themselves. If a user is a complete novice, then it is best to bring in a professional to do the needful, as over writing by mistake can result in permanent data loss.

In the event of a serious and complicated problem that has resulted in data loss, then DIY methods are tricky. To retrieve data in such situations will need the expertise of professionals, who will carry out the complex process in a controlled and hygienic environment.

Conclusion

Data loss is a very real problem in the world we live in. The data we create and store dictates every aspect of our economic, social and personal interactions. Backup of data has to be done on a regular basis to prepare oneself for probable data loss. The only reassuring aspect of data loss is that it happens to most people, so there are more solutions in place; data can in most cases be retrieved.