Frequently Asked Questions about Remote Data Backup

1) What is Remote Data Backup?

Remote Data Backup is a service whereby data stored on a computer is sent via the Internet to another computer (referred to as a Server).

With PCM's service, a piece of software is installed on a computer in your company's network. This gathers together the data that you want to be backed up. At a scheduled time, the data is sent to the remote Server. Using some clever techniques, only the parts of the files that have changed are sent - in simple terms, this makes backing up large amounts of data very quick.

The data that is stored on PCM's Server can quickly be accessed via the Internet, either using the software that was installed on your computer, or via a password protected website. You are able to restore individual files and folders - alternatively, you can choose to restore all the data as it was on a particular date.

Any files that have been deleted or changed since the last time the backup software ran are stored in an Archive for a period you define. For example, you might want to keep an archive of old emails for 24 months, and keep an archive of letters for only 7 days. To keep the storage space to a minimum, items older than your archiving period are deleted.

2) Why do I need Remote Data Backup?

To answer that question, you need to think what would happen if you lost your data. Would you be able to keep trading with minimal disruption if you had no contact details for your customers, no record of previous business and no archive of emails? You should also give thought to who in the company is responsible for making sure this data is protected, and what happens if they are ill/on holiday - will someone else make sure the backups run?

PCM's Remote Data Backup service ensures that data is safely backed up, without fail.

3) Do I need to be an I.T. geek to use it?

Not at all! PCM take care of everything, from installing the software to making sure the backup runs when it should. We can also help you select the relevant data that you need to backup. Should you need to retrieve some data from the backup, we can talk you through the restore process, or even just send you the files you need by email or on CD-ROM.

4) Is it expensive?

The service is priced on the amount of data you want to backup. Further information about how much it costs can be found on our Pricing page.

5) Is it secure?

Of course. The backup software that is installed on your computer encrypts the data before it leaves your network. It stays this way when it reaches our Server. The data can only be read if you have the password - without this, the data is useless.

6) How can I get my data back in an emergency?

In a few different ways. If you only require a handful of files/folders, you can either use the Remote Backup software installed on your computer, or download them from a secure website. We are more than happy to talk your through this process over the phone, or even email you the files you require.

Should you need to retrieve larger amounts of data in a hurry, we can download the data onto a CD-ROM/USB memory stick etc, and have it couriered to you. There is an additional charge for this service.

7) Is it for me?

Our service is suitable for all types of businesses. However, we feel it fits in particularly well to businesses where there is no dedicated member of staff to look after the I.T. equipment. In this instance, the role of "Person who knows a little about computers" is resposible for ensuring data is backed up when it should be. If they are ill, or on holiday, data can go for days without being backed up.

PCM's Remote Data Backup service takes away the stress involved in making sure data is being backed up correctly.