Backups are central to any data protection strategy, but by some estimates more than half of all backups fail either in whole or in part. Below is a list of the top three most common problems to be aware of that cause data backup failure, in decreasing order of frequency.
1. Media failure
Media failure ranks at the top of nearly every list as reasons why backups and restores fail. Therefore it's important to treat your backup media with the utmost care by storing them in a safe and secure environment.
2. Human error
The best safeguard against human error in backups is to make sure that the people involved with your backups understand exactly what they need to do -- and what not to do.
3. Software failure
Sometimes new software or new versions of software can cause backup failures. Modern backup software is extremely flexible; therefore given this wide range of differing software you must be extremely careful in choosing the option that is compatible with your organisation’s requirements.
How to Fix Backup Failures
Whatever the cause of failure, the best way to keep them from damaging your organisation is to verify your backups by performing regular test restores. Testing your backups regularly won't prevent backup failures, but they can help in noticing the issue and this will allow you to fix the problem before you really need those backups.
