Common Challenges in Backing Up Data in Microsoft 365 and Azure

It is incredibly common for individuals and companies that use Microsoft 365 and Azure to discover that they are facing several issues when it comes to backing up their data. We want to review some of the most common issues that users typically encounter so that those situations can be understood and prepared for. Let’s take a look at some of the most common backup challenges for each system and why they matter.

Common Backup Challenges When Using Microsoft 365

First, we should look at the types of challenges that one is likely to encounter when using the native backup capabilities of Microsoft 365. Here are some things to be aware of:

• Overconfidence in Built-In Protections - There is a belief by many that the built-in protections offered by Microsoft 365 should be enough on their own to keep one safe. Unfortunately, this is often far from the truth. Microsoft 365 offers some very basic backup support, but it is far from the only thing that you should rely on.

• Accidental Deletions - Often, the most difficult challenge that one faces when it comes to backup is human error. It is quite easy for any individual to mistakenly delete something that they might not have intended to. That file can be gone forever when one is relying solely on the capabilities of the native Microsoft 365 backup offerings.

• Cyber Threats - There are bad actors out there who want nothing more than to claw their way into your files and databases, and that is exactly what they will do if given the opportunity. Therefore, it is up to you to make sure that you are not exclusively using the Microsoft 365 native platform tools as your go-to source for backup protection.

• Complex Retention Policies - It would be nice if retention policies were straightforward and clear, but they often aren’t with Microsoft 365. Instead, the overly complex retention standards can leave many users baffled about what will be retained for them and what won’t.

These are some of the issues that people tend to mention again and again. You will likely run into even more issues when you start to explore it all for yourself. Keep that in mind as you think about whether moving forward with only the native tools on Microsoft 365 is the smartest move.

Common Backup Issues with Azure

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for backup programs, and this is certainly evident as you dig a bit deeper into the Azure platform. You will find that there are many common backup issues , and you should also be aware of how those problems might come to the forefront if you are not prepared. Here are some common backup issues:

• High Cost - There are potentially some very high costs associated with using any backup program and retaining data for a long period of time. Those costs continue to grow as you keep holding on to the data that you need to retain.

• Configuration Problems - Sometimes simply getting all your data ready to conform to the standards of the data programs can be an issue. Some have noted configuration issues when trying to migrate their existing data sets into the Azure program. That can lead to frustration and additional time spent simply trying to formulate your data into usable material.

• Compliance and Regulatory Concerns - Don’t forget that you also need to focus on maintaining your data in such a way that it complies with any and all regulations that you might be subject to. Azure doesn’t necessarily have everything that you need to meet all of those standards.

• Performance Issues - Some have noted that they simply can’t get the same level of performance from their Azure platform as they do when using other options. This is a major issue for anyone who is trying to get real backup of their files. They must rely on a system they know will come through for them, and that simply isn’t the case for some Azure users.

• Complex Services - Another thing of note is the fact that the Azure system is a bit complex for some people’s liking. They prefer a plug-in-play experience, and that simply isn’t what they get when using Azure. They need to know a little more about how these types of systems work to get real value out of the Azure system, and that takes some effort.

Keep all of this in mind as you think about the benefits and drawbacks of different types of data backup systems. Be aware that you might need something that is different than what you had expected.

Selecting the Right Backup Solution Makes All the Difference

Obtaining a backup solution that works well for you can make all the difference in the world. You see, it is up to you to tap into a system that will offer you the service that you require at a price that you can afford. It is also important to note that you don’t want to purchase something that will be outside of what your budget can reasonably handle. Finding the right fit for your budget means that you can get back to focusing on the other aspects of your business.

Backing up data is an extremely important thing to do, and you would be remiss if you didn’t take a little time to figure it all out. You can be sure that your customers will appreciate when you have a system that will hold up against any human error or deliberate attacks. That is when you know that you have something in hand that will go the distance for you.

Take time today to do a comparison of the various products and services out there and start to determine which ones make sense for you. It is something that you can do to put your company on a better path starting today, and that is an opportunity that you do not want to miss. For more information on common backup struggles, reach out and contact us today.