Entrepreneurs regularly create a backup for all the data they generate, for they are well aware of the fact that the availability of data determines their business survival. However, creating a backup for the generated data is not a simple process. It requires much planning and effort. Every step involves careful deliberation. To begin with entrepreneurs face the dilemma of selecting the right backup device. Plenty of back up storage devices are available, and making the right choice often proves difficult. However, the two methods that are most popular are the online remote data backup system and creating a backup using the magnetic tapes as a storage device.

The remote data backup service providing company provides a software program which a user has to install on the computer. This program compresses and encrypts and automatically transfers the data from the client's computer to the remote storage location. The user can retrieve this data as and when the need arises.

The other method that is also quite popular and traditionally in use is the backup created on magnetic tapes.

Creating a backup on magnetic tapes is the oldest method in use. Data is written and stored on the loop of celluloid like material found inside the plastic casing. This method has been popularly in use since long while the remote data back up is a comparatively newer method that is gaining rapid popularity. Both these storage devices are contrasted here to enable the user get a clear understanding of either storage method and make a proper choice.

Using the magnetic tapes as a data backup storage device involves investment of time and money. Much resource is required to create a backup, maintain it and check it workability. Magnetic tapes are cheaper devices compared to other storage media. However, per unit cost of data stored is comparatively cheaper if it is stored online. Remote backup data storage is hassle free. Once the software is installed the backup takes place automatically. Neither hardware nor software needs to be purchased and there is no necessity for any maintenance work.

Data creation on magnetic tapes is a manual job. Discipline is necessary to prevent procrastination. Further the magnetic tapes have to be rotated and catalogued regularly. Employees tend to postpone such jobs. Subsequently, when the real need for the stored data occurs, the backup can hardly be relied on.

Online data backup effectively removes this defect. The back up process is automated with no human intervention. Another fact worth mentioning is that human work is error prone. Remote offsite data backup is absolutely devoid of errors.

Magnetic tapes provide for sequential access of data, consequently data retrieval takes time. To retrieve a particular aspect of the data the entire length of the tape has to be run.

The fully automated online remote back up provides for quick retrieval of data. Quicker recovery rates mean lesser downtime and less loss of productivity.

The software running on the computer automatically compresses and encrypts the received data. This method effectively prevents data theft. Magnetic tapes are well stored but, data theft is always a possibility by employees holding malicious intentions.

An employee on the move can access data from the offsite remote location anytime and anywhere from the world. Data can be transferred to co workers and the freshly generated data can be saved again. This convenience can hardly be compared to the data access methods of the magnetic tape.

Magnetic tapes have to be carefully stored away from direct sunlight, humidity and magnetic fields. These physical devices are also subject to wear and tear. If they are placed onsite, they are exposed to all the potential dangers from natural calamities that might afflict the other onsite computers. Offsite placement of the storage device necessitates extra time in data recovery.

The entrepreneur who uses the remote data backup storage method hardly thinks about such storage problems.

Magnetic tapes have a limited a life span and limited storage facility. Data generated by a business enterprise increases every annum. Remote online data back up provides for unlimited storage facility.

Remote data backup is being much preferred by many SMEs for the numerous benefits on offer.