In most businesses, the information stored on computers is irreplaceable. Customer databases, tax records, marketing materials, and intellectual property may all be stored on computers throughout the office. But every year thousands of companies lose computer data because of fires, floods or burglaries. Many more experience smaller losses from system crashes, accidental erasures or computer viruses. If one of these has never happened to your firm, you can consider yourself very lucky indeed.

Computer backup systems help businesses avoid these catastrophes by providing a safe way to maintain important files. They are designed to protect against both system failures and business catastrophes. By storing copies of data outside the office, you can keep your files safe at all times.

This guide is designed to give you the facts you need to purchase a computer backup system for your business. The various sections are listed in the box above. You can choose to read this guide from beginning to end, or jump directly to a section of interest.