That’s why backup and recovery solutions are a non-negotiable for organizations of all sizes. Traditionally, on-premises backup methods like external hard drives were the norm, but the rise of cloud computing has brought new options to the table in the form of cloud backup. Managed cloud services provide a way to automatically copy data to a remote cloud-based server for safekeeping.

However, many companies are now taking things a step further by implementing cloud-to-cloud backup. With this approach, data that is already being hosted in one cloud environment (like a SaaS application, for example) gets copied over to a second cloud for redundancy.

What Is Cloud-to-Cloud Backup?

Cloud-to-cloud backup provides an additional layer of protection for the rising number of businesses relying on cloud perks and productivity solutions like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce, and more. While these software-as-a-service platforms include some backup and file recovery capabilities, they have well-documented limitations that could leave companies vulnerable to data loss scenarios.

According to statistics from Expert Insights, 45% of company data breaches are cloud-based, 80% of national companies experience at least one cloud issue per year, and 27% of these incidents went public! Clearly, there is a disconnect between the business-critical data being stored in cloud environments and robust backup and recovery strategies.

With cloud-to-cloud backup, businesses can automatically sync data from one cloud service (the production cloud) to a second dedicated cloud backup repository that puts redundant copies of that data into a separate environment.

This creates a readily accessible and complete version of critical data if files become corrupted, deleted, or otherwise lost in the production cloud.

What Are the Benefits of Cloud-to-Cloud Backup?

Numerous benefits make cloud-to-cloud backup solutions highly advantageous for businesses. Here are some of the reasons why so many businesses nationwide trust our backup services to keep their brand in compliance and operational.

Protection from Data Loss Across Cloud Apps

A staggering 94% of companies use cloud services like Office 365. Cloud-to-cloud backup ensures data in these apps and environments is fully protected and recoverable if something goes wrong.

Regulatory Compliance

Many industries have strict data privacy rules dictating retention policies. Cloud-to-cloud backup enables companies to maintain historical records and metadata to demonstrate compliance and avoid legal risk.

Unlimited, Scalable Storage Capacity

We provide virtually unlimited storage capacity that automatically scales to meet data growth. When you work with Springfield I.T. Department for backup, you never have to worry about running out of space for your mountains of data.

Easy Data Recovery

If data is deleted, corrupted, or lost, administrators can browse the cloud backup repository and restore individual files/folders or perform a full recovery with just a few clicks.

Automated Backup Schedules

Backups can be automated according to customized schedules, ensuring consistent data protection without disrupting operations or user workflows.

The Dangers of Not Having Cloud Backup

For organizations embracing the cloud, not having a robust cloud-to-cloud backup strategy in place is extremely risky for several reasons.

Data Loss/Corruption

Without backup services and copies in place, any data that is deleted, corrupted, or lost is simply gone forever from the production cloud. This could mean losing essential business records, customer data, financial information, intellectual property, and more instantly.

Malware/Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware and other malicious malware that manage to infect a production cloud environment could quickly spread to encrypt or corrupt data across the entire cloud storage instance. Having backup copies immune to the attack can enable recovery and help your problem from becoming a public issue.

Compliance Violations

Depending on the industry, not retaining and protecting data according to established rules and regulations could lead to compliance penalties, fines, legal issues, and reputational damage for businesses.

Extended Downtime

When data is compromised or lost without backups, companies may face extensive periods of downtime and business disruption as they scramble to rebuild data and information.

How Springfield I.T. Department Can Help with Cloud-to-Cloud Backup

Springfield I.T. Department is a nationwide managed IT provider based in Springfield, TX, specializing in delivering robust, enterprise-grade cloud solutions and support to businesses. Our team of experts partners with industry-leading cloud backup vendors like Microsoft and HP to implement customized cloud-to-cloud backup systems for clients.

With Springfield I.T. Department on your side, you gain the following backup perks:

• Unlimited cloud backup storage capacity to protect all your business data

• Fully customizable scheduling to automate backups according to your needs

• Long-term retention of backed-up emails, files, contacts and more 

• Rapid data recovery capabilities to quickly restore information when needed

• Mobile application access to backed-up data from anywhere

• Centralized administrative console to easily manage backup/recovery

Work in the Cloud Safely With Springfield I.T. Department

No matter your industry, size, or geographic location, Springfield I.T. Department provides the backup and recovery services your business needs to safeguard data while taking full advantage of the cloud.

With 24/7 monitoring and support from our team, you can have peace of mind knowing your vital information in the cloud is always protected and recoverable. Contact us today to learn more about implementing cloud-to-cloud backup for your organization.

The post Why Businesses Need Cloud-to-Cloud Backup (And How to Get It) appeared first on Springfield I.T. Department.

That’s where on-site or remote IT backup solutions come into play. Backup solutions serve as a safety net that mitigates data loss and helps promote business continuity. 

You may think cloud providers and their IT teams may be enough to help you save data in the worst of times, but without a backup solution on your side, nothing is ever guaranteed. 

Still on the fence? Let’s explore how backup solutions can help a business thrive in the long run.

Backup Solutions Can Save You From Yourself

Data loss can occur for various reasons, including hardware failure, natural disasters, cyberattacks, or human error. 

If your business relies on cloud services, the likelihood of data restoration after a catastrophic event is high. However, when it comes to personal user errors, like accidentally deleting a critical file, recovery can seem questionable.

Without a reliable backup solution, businesses risk losing years of valuable information, leading to severe financial and reputational damage. 

Cloud replication backup solutions give you another cloud-based location to store and replicate data. In the case of an error, you can turn back to your cloud replication and quickly restore your data. With cloud replication on your side, you can minimize the consequences associated with accidental data deletion.

Ensuring Business Continuity

Backup solutions protect you against unexpected issues like power outages, system failure, and cyber incidents that could create substantial business downtime.

Rather than scrambling to recover any data you may have lost, a comprehensive backup solution can help you quickly restore critical data and systems.

Regularly backup up data with a backup solution ensures even the largest disruptions are just a minor bump in the road. Backup products help maintain productivity and let you remain confident no matter what; your brand’s trade secrets, consumer data, and other valuable information remain confidential.

Compliance and Legal Requirements

Many industries are subject to strict regulatory and legal data protection and privacy requirements. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in substantial penalties and damage to a company’s reputation. 

However, sometimes confidential data can be lost and must be recovered. Backup solutions play a crucial role in meeting these obligations by ensuring the secure storage and retention of data. 

With a solution like a file-based backup in place, your team doesn’t even have to worry about anyone outside of your organization viewing stored files, even during recovery.

A file-based backup like JuggerVault File Defender, is a solution that ensures secure recovery via encrypted files that make data recovery a safe, fast, and swift process.

Facilitating Disaster Recovery

In the face of a major system failure or a natural disaster, having a robust backup solution can quickly restore systems, applications, and data to a functional state. 

Several services are cloud-to-cloud and data center-to-data center based which make off-site storage invaluable during a physical or technological disaster.

Through off-site or cloud storage, companies can quickly retrieve their data and resume operations, even if their primary infrastructure is compromised. This capability provides a significant competitive advantage, allowing businesses to navigate through challenging times while maintaining service levels and customer satisfaction.

Safeguarding Intellectual Property

For many businesses, their intellectual property (IP) is the cornerstone of their success. Protecting intellectual property is crucial for sustained growth, whether it’s proprietary software code, innovative designs, or sensitive trade secrets. 

Backup solutions safeguard IP by creating secure copies of valuable data. In the event of accidental deletion, corruption, or unauthorized access, businesses can rely on their backup systems to restore critical IP assets, preventing significant losses and preserving their competitive edge.

Backup Your Data With Managed Solutions From Springfield I.T. Department

The modern workforce is a technology-driven landscape. Don’t take the journey without a reliable co-pilot. Springfield I.T. Department provides IT solutions to help you navigate any data recovery or system emergencies that arise. 

Through a combined effort of our backup solutions and local and national managed services, our IT experts can help you maintain efficient operations and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in data solutions.

Contact us today to learn more about our services.

The post How Backup Solutions Safeguard Long-Term Business Success appeared first on Springfield I.T. Department.

It’s a fact—99% of y’all will read the first few lines of this article and then delete it. Please do not! Take a few minutes to read this…

As I walked into my doctor’s building today (a four-story building over by Medical City in Springfield) I saw box fans in every office – all throughout the building. I asked the receptionist what had happened. Apparently, a patient from the hospital’s psych ward had escaped and decided to sleep in the stairwell overnight. At some point, he must have turned on the fire hose and flooded the entire four floors!

Well, my doctor’s office had all of their PC’s and their sole server sitting on the floor…YEP! You guessed it…DONE. These devices are no longer working. And the data…well, let’s just say when you put a hard drive under water, the outcome isn’t good. This true story serves as a reminder that the unimaginable is also quite tangible. Are you prepared for the unexpected?

Here are my top 7 disaster preparedness tips to help ensure your priceless data stays safe

• Make a Checklist
  When it comes to disaster recovery (fire, flood, weather, thief, etc.), there is no time to just “wing it”, so making a checklist is your first key to success. Don’t have one? Right now is the time to make one. Make sure to include your Energy, Internet and IT service provider’s phone & account number on the list.
• Conduct a Risk Assessment
  What is the risk of X? It’s up to you to define “X”, but some examples are – loss of power, loss of servers, loss of the building. What risk does it pose to the health of the business?
• Identify the Top Causes of IT Outages
  If you’re not sure about this, please ask your IT professional. Have them create a list for you. The loss of data is 99% of the reason companies go out of business. Do you only have one server? If it dies without good, tested backups, what happens to the business? How long would you be able to keep the doors open and customers happy without backups?
• Establish Communication Protocol
  If you do not have a building because of a fire, flood or damage, where is your go-to spot? Can your phones be transferred in the blink of an eye to keep the business going? If they are VoIP phones, they most likely will. Again, it’s important to ask your phone administrator before disaster occurs.
• BDR Education
  Maybe you don’t know it, but Springfield I.T. Department offers our customers an amazing BDR (Backup Disaster Recovery) Solution. Do you have a comprehensive BDR Solution Plan? If not, GET ONE… It’s easy to justify the cost – If you lost your servers and data, the $400‒$500 is well beyond worth it!
• Discuss Various Storage Options
  Is your data stored correctly? Is it set up in a redundant fashion (meaning you have 2 copies of it)? If not, DO IT! Trust me, this is a big one and you’ll thank me later.
• Test Your BDR Processes
  Don’t just trust that your BDR plan is solid—do a test restore and request the data from your BDR solution provider to make sure it’s REALLY going to work in the event of an emergency.

Although these are all important details to consider, they’re just some of the tips and tricks that will aid in a smooth disaster recovery. For more details, please call Jeff Wheeler @ 972-331-3311 or email me: jwheeler@intelinetsystems.com

Providing Solutions for Real Results,

Jeff Wheeler
Managing Partner, VCIO

At Springfield I.T. Department our mission is to exceed your technology needs and expectations with our proven solutions, knowledgeable support staff, industry leading consulting and sales services, and skilled technical experts.

The post The Naughty & Nice (IT) List: You Better Be Checking It Twice! appeared first on Springfield I.T. Department.

Think about it… We change the oil in our cars every so often. We get our teeth cleaned every so often. We balance our checkbook every so often… OK, I’m not good about this one, but my point is… Have you done a telecom audit this year?

Did you know, the average Intelinet customer could save between $200 and $500 (or possibly more) each month in telecom services?

That is an average of $5,400 a year in saving!

With Springfield I.T. Department, you have full access to specialists, engineers and all the pricing discounts from over 70 providers! As a trusted provider, we have been serving the globe for Voice, Internet, IT and Cloud solutions, while saving companies just like yours, tons of money.

What’s the Process?
After we perform a comprehensive analysis of your business and technology direction, we audit your current expenses and provide you with proposals from all providers that offer services that would best meet your needs.

How Much Money Can You Save?
For the past 15 years, our consulting team has saved our clients an average of 30% on their telecommunications and bandwidth expenses. We ensure you are getting the lowest price from all providers with our comprehensive analysis. The best part— There’s no cost or obligation to our clients!

What’s the Next Step?
If you thinking about changing, please get a copy of your current phone bill and any agreements you have over to Springfield I.T. Department for a FREE No Obligation Audit.

What Are You Waiting For?
Email me directly and start saving money today! Just send it to jwheeler@intelinetsystems.com We’re looking forward to saving you money and increasing your Internet speeds!

Providing Solutions for Real Results,

Jeff Wheeler
Managing Partner, VCIO

At Springfield I.T. Department our mission is to exceed your technology needs and expectations with our proven solutions, knowledgeable support staff, industry leading consulting and sales services, and skilled technical experts.

The post More Internet Speed For Less $$$ appeared first on Springfield I.T. Department.

It’s likely your old phone system has the following features:

• Making and receiving calls
• Internet office intercom
• Voice mail
• Call hold
• Call waiting

So, do you know the key signs of when you need to replace your phone? If your phone only has the basic functions, it’s time for a new phone system.

Today’s Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phones are amazing. They have so many features that you most likely never even knew you needed. However, once you have these conveniences, you get spoiled.

Features of VoIP

• Call routing by DID (direct inward dial)
• PC app to dial from your PC
• Smartphone app to dial from your office phone via the app
• Screen sharing
• MS Exchange integration
• CRM integration (Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, SugarCRM, Sage)
• Voicemail/music-on-hold
• Call following (rings multiple phones at the same time)

VoIP is not an expensive system. In fact, it’s so affordable, you’ll be shocked! Contact me at the office to get all the details (1-877-990-9397). Or send me a quick email, jwheeler@intelinetsystems.com. You’ll be glad you did!

Providing Solutions for Real Results,

Jeff Wheeler
Managing Partner, VCIO

At Springfield I.T. Department our mission is to exceed your technology needs and expectations with our proven solutions, knowledgeable support staff, industry leading consulting and sales services, and skilled technical experts.

The post When is it Time for a New Office Phone System? appeared first on Springfield I.T. Department.

Answer these questions to find out where your business ranks in network security:

Q: What is your current backup solution: File-Folder / Image Based
Q: What is the name of the backup solution: _______________________
Q: When was the last time you did a test restore? This Year / Last Year / Never
Q: Was the test restore successful? Yes / No
Q: How long did it take? ______________ Minutes/Hours/Days

Give yourself an honest grade on how well you either know the answers, or what the answers were. Did you get an “A” “B” “C” “D” or did you fail “F”?
Do not feel bad, 95% of you got a true “F”. Here is a video outlining what you should be looking for and how easy it is for Springfield I.T. Department to manage this for you!

We provide a technology that images (takes a photograph of the server) as quick as every 15 minutes. If that server dies, we can bring it back online in minutes, not hours or days! The image includes your data, settings, program files, databases, everything! We can restore the images to dissimilar or base metal hardware. The best way is to be confident that you have the most reliable backup and recovery solution in place BEFORE you need it. This is what we do!

Call or email and ask for an onsite demonstration!

jwheeler@intelinetsystems.com or (877) 990-9397

We at Springfield I.T. Department understand the needs of small businesses, as well as large corporations, and have built our business on being flexible, and adapting to any environment. We provide services that range from simple cloud-based backups through the use of StorageCraft (watch video) backup and replication, or duplicating your entire systems through our SSAE 16 SOC-1 Type II audited and PCI compliant data center, among other options of your choice.

Allow Springfield I.T. Department the opportunity to consult with you, and win your confidence in our ability to protect you as you continue your success. Contact us as soon as possible – you have a lot to lose, and we can help!

Providing Solutions for Real Results,

At Springfield I.T. Department our mission is to exceed your technology needs and expectations with our proven solutions, knowledgeable support staff, industry leading consulting and sales services, and skilled technical experts.

The post Technology Spotlight: Can You Restore Your Completely DEAD Servers in 15 to 20 Minutes? WE CAN! appeared first on Springfield I.T. Department.

After July 14, Microsoft will no longer issue security updates for any version of Windows Server 2003. If you are still running Windows Server 2003 your operating system will no longer be protected from outside intruders. This means:

• Compromised Security
• Non-Compliance
• Increased Maintenance
• Increased Costs

Even the Department of Homeland Security issued a warning regarding this expiration and advised that businesses should migrate off of Server 2003.

Avoiding or postponing migration to a new operating system will be putting your business at serious risk!

Don’t delay, call Intelinet at 417-942-5636 and we can develop a custom plan for a seamless migration that will have your organization running even better than before!

For more information on Windows Server 2003 end of support read our latest post.

Providing Solutions for Real Results,

At Springfield I.T. Department our mission is to exceed your technology needs and expectations with our proven solutions, knowledgeable support staff, industry leading consulting and sales services, and skilled technical experts.

The post Security Alert: Windows 2003 Reaches The End of Support! appeared first on Springfield I.T. Department.

We’ll be taking a look at some of the traditional backup methods.

SAN to SAN Replication

Springfield I.T. Department can provide a full replication and offsite failover of your virtual environment. Using built in functionality of the Dell EqualLogic SAN, also available in many other top SAN manufacturers; we can replicate your local environment to our SSAE 16 SOC-1 Type II audited and PCI compliant data center or to a choice of your own.

We can also use Veeam Backup and Replication to provide the same replication capabilities and give you the confidence of having your data secure and ready when disaster strikes.

Hypervisor Level Backup and Replication

Veeam Backup and Replication provides data protection for virtualized applications and data running on VMware vSphere. Our expert staff will setup your not only to back up your VMs, but also provide you with image-based replication either on-site for high availability or off-site for disaster recovery.

VMware vSphere Data Protection Advanced protects all your virtual machines and business critical applications. This technology provides the most proven, efficient and easy-to-use protection for virtual machines and integrates fully with vCenter Server and managed natively through the vSphere Web Client. Let one of our consultants give you a tour of the product and display the benefits of this integrated solution.

Complete System Backup (O/S level full image)

StorageCraft ShadowProtect or our managed JuggerVault Pro solution will provide your physical and virtual environments with operating systems level image-based backups for rapid recovery, bare metal restoration or VirtualBoot quick failover to a virtual machine.

File Level Backup

Our JuggerVault File Defender will meet any budget and give you piece of mind while providing the confidence of protecting your important files transferred to our SSAE 16 SOC-1 Type II audited and PCI compliant data center.

A Trusted Partner

Give us at Springfield I.T. Department the opportunity to win your business and become a trusted partner in your data and business continuity needs and to continue to working with you during your continued success.

Outsourcing Services and Support Models

Springfield I.T. Department is a premier, single-source provider for virtually any IT need. We offer a range of services and support models, including:

• on-site services – help desk, hardware maintenance, desktop and server troubleshooting, network support
• network management – network monitoring, software updates, remote management
• database administration – performance monitoring, backups, DBA services
• project support – consulting, project management, development, testing

The immediate and long-term value Springfield I.T. Department creates involves:

• achieving and remaining on the leading-edge of technology in a cost-effective manner
• overall reduction of IT costs
• client focus devoted to core competencies
• comprehensive service level agreements (SLA)
• access to industry, business and technology experts
• turnkey management and performance of tasks including multiple solutions and vendors

When considering the many challenges of managing your IT environment successfully – from the time and expense of hiring, educating, managing, and providing benefits for employees to ongoing IT needs and project management – think of Springfield I.T. Department as your complete IT solution partner. Whether augmenting your existing capacity and skill sets, or managing and operating your IT operation, Springfield I.T. Department is a valuable addition to your team.

The post Backup Services Comparison appeared first on Springfield I.T. Department.