Backup, Dos And Don'ts
- Do make sure you always use the correct type of media.
- Do record backup dates and times into a Backup log book.
- Do make sure you VERIFY the backup worked correctly.
- Do Compress data and include Error Correction options if your backup utility includes such options.
- Do make sure no users have any databases open when you backup. Most backup utilities will not backup open files (as information in the file cannot be guaranteed to be reliable).
- Don't keep backup media on-site. If you have a well-protected fireproof safe you may wish to keep some backups on-site, but it is still recommended you also have off-site backups. Having backups stored next to the computer if your premises are destroyed by fire is worthless.
- Don't ignore errors reported during a Backup or Restore. Errors during a backup normally mean the backup is corrupt and useless.