With the increasing news about potential power outages due to rising energy demands, many business owners in Wylie and Plano, Texas, are left wondering how to safeguard their critical IT infrastructure if such a scenario becomes reality.
In this article, we’ll outline the key strategies your current IT provider should be using to minimize the risk of a critical IT failure during a power loss. These steps are crucial to ensure your business continues running smoothly, even when the lights go out.
Embrace a Cloud-First, Mobile/Hybrid Workforce
One of the most effective ways to protect your business is by adopting a cloud-first approach. This means running your IT services in the cloud and equipping your team with laptops and mobile devices that allow them to work from anywhere.
Many businesses, however, still rely on physical servers to deliver essential IT functions. Whether it’s file storage, application hosting, or directory services, these servers (often called bare metal) are the backbone of many companies, running quietly in server rooms or data centers.
If your business hasn’t fully transitioned to the cloud, it’s crucial to know how to protect these servers from damage or data corruption during a power outage.
1) Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
A UPS (uninterruptible power supply) is a must for businesses relying on physical servers. Installed in server racks, UPS units act as a buffer between your network, servers, and the main power supply. They protect against power surges and spikes while providing a small window of battery backup when the power goes out.
Most UPS devices offer 5-10 minutes of power — just enough time for what’s known as a “graceful shutdown” of your network and servers. This process is critical to prevent data corruption or loss. If you’re unsure whether your UPS is installed or functioning correctly, reach out to your IT provider or Tekcom Computer for assistance.
2) RAID Array for Data Redundancy
A RAID (redundant array of independent disks) setup is another safeguard against data loss during power fluctuations. Power spikes and sudden outages can damage server hardware, reducing the lifespan of essential components like physical hard drives.
RAID arrays help protect your business by mirroring and “striping” data across multiple disks. If one disk fails, the data can be recovered from the other disks once the failed one is replaced. This redundancy ensures that even in the event of hardware failure, your critical data remains safe.
3) Cloud Backup: Your Lifeline During Power Outages
Having a cloud backup in place is an essential layer of protection. If a power outage occurs and your on-site servers are unavailable, cloud backup allows you to access your critical business data from anywhere. In situations where immediate access to data is necessary, such as during an extended power outage, this can be a lifesaver.
Cloud backup solutions have become more affordable over the years, and your IT provider should already have a system in place. Be sure to ask when the last test of your backup restoration was conducted to ensure everything is functioning as expected. At Tekcom Computer, we regularly check and verify backup systems to make sure our clients’ data is secure.
Need Help Protecting Your Business During a Power Outage?
If you’re concerned about how a power outage could affect your business, Tekcom Computer is here to help. We specialize in IT solutions for businesses in Wylie and Plano, Texas, and can provide a comprehensive review of your backup systems to ensure you’re fully protected.
Don’t leave your business vulnerable — get in touch with Tekcom Computer today for expert guidance on how to safeguard your IT infrastructure during power outages. We’re your local technology partner, dedicated to keeping your business running smoothly, no matter what.