IT data services including storage, backup and disaster recovery

Data services is actually quite a broad category. It can include anything from the creation of a central data centre repository to the aggregation of data from various parts of an architecture. In other words, it can include anything from data storage, to performing multiple types of analytics on big data sets to working, as well as with data in transit.

Advantages of data services

Advantages of data services include cost-efficiency and scalability. For example, third-party data services allow your business to avoid the cost of needing to maintain hardware such as servers. You can hire managed service providers at a monthly rate, rather than having to constantly upgrade software and hardware as well as pay full-time employees.Extension Technology offer a range of data services to clients in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Melbourne. Our services include storage and backup solutions, as well as disaster backup strategies.

In-office and cloud-based storage

For data storage, Extension Technology offer two options: cloud-based storage or in-office storage. In some cases, clients will use a mix of both depending on their needs.

1.  Cloud-based storage

Cloud-based storage is helping to make business from corporate giants to small-medium businesses become more agile and increase their ROI. This is because cloud-based storage solutions are often cheaper and more flexible than other types of storage. The cost being that of set-up and maintenance which is offered in a monthly subscription fee.

Cloud storage

This is a model of cloud computing where data is stored in remote servers accessible via the internet. This is a system which enables you to remotely access data from anywhere there’s an internet connection.You can start small with cloud storage and expand as needed in a simple and affordable fashion.The benefits of cloud storage are:
  • Strong data protection
  • Easy on the budget
  • Lower overall storage costs
  • Greater reliability
Overall cloud storage can provide you with a more user-friendly and better infrastructure to manage your data needs. Extension Technology offers a range of cloud solutions; which one we use for your business will depend on your data needs.

2.  In-office storage

In-office, or onsite, storage devices are usually a Network Attached Storage (NAS). This is a larger server with multiple hard drivers. The purpose of having many is so that if one fails, no data is lost.While not necessarily as affordable as cloud-based storage, a NAS device does provide much better long-term storage as well as ready access. The initial setup is more costly, however the long-term accessibility and reliability of a NAS device more than makes up for it.

Network attached storage (NAS) devices

Network attached storage device is an intelligent storage box which attaches directly to a router. Now, when it comes to determining what storage capacity you require, it is best to talk with an expert MSP (managed service provider) like Extension Technology. During a brief conversation, our team can ascertain the best NAS device for your business. We can also build and maintain it for you as part of service fee.

Cloud vs in-office storage

If you’re unsure which solution is right for you, check out our page on data storage, or contact us.

Data Backup solutions

Extension Technology offer three data backup solutions: image level, block level, and incremental level:

1.  Image level

An image level backup takes a snapshot of your entire operating system as well as the data associated with it. It’s called an image level backup because the file the backup is saved in is called an image. This can be easily retrieved and restored if your business suffers serious data loss.

2.   Block level

Block level backups are faster than most other types because they only backup the extents which contain data, rather than the entire file. Compared to image level backups, block level backups have less scan time for systems with large amounts of small files.

3.  Incremental level

Incremental backups have two levels. Level zero and level one. A level zero is the starting point for all other incremental backups: it copies all data into a backup set just as a full backup would do. A level one incremental backup is either: a differential backup which acks up all blocks that were changed since the most recent backup. Or it’s a cumulative backup which only backs up the most recent incremental backup from level zero.If you’re unsure which solution is right for you, check out our page on data backup, or contact us.

Disaster Recovery strategies

Disaster recovery differs from backup in that it’s a strategy rather than a solution. That is, it’s not simply a piece of software or hardware but rather a strategy which encompasses re-establishing access to IT resources, data, and applications after an outage.A disaster recovery plan requires development, maintenance and execution to ensure your business is able to survive any problem when it happens, however it happens. The team at Extension Technology have the skills and experience to help you achieve this, so you won’t have to worry should anything go awry with your data.If you would like to know more, check out our page on disaster recovery, or contact us.

IT data services offered by Extension Technology

For the best storage and backup solutions, and the most efficient disaster recovery strategies, you want to work with an experienced, skilled team. Extension Technology have all the expertise and training necessary to help you achieve your IT data needs.For more information, please feel free to contact us today!