Business Backup and Disaster Recovery Guide
By the CTEKS team · October 15, 2026 · 3 min read
- Decide how much data and downtime you can afford to lose.
- Keep one copy that attackers cannot delete.
- Test restores on a schedule.
Backups are the safety net under every other IT decision. When something goes wrong, whether it is ransomware, a failed server or a deleted folder, the question is simple: how fast can you get back to work, and how much will you lose?
Backup versus disaster recovery
A backup is a copy of your data. Disaster recovery is the plan and the tools to get systems running again. You need both, and the plan needs to be written down.
Two numbers worth knowing
- Recovery point objective (RPO): how much recent work you can afford to lose, for example one hour or one day.
- Recovery time objective (RTO): how long you can afford to be down before it seriously hurts the business.
Your backup schedule and tools should be chosen to meet those two numbers, not the other way around.
The 3-2-1 idea
Keep three copies of important data, on two different kinds of storage, with one copy off-site or in the cloud. Add one more rule for the ransomware era: keep a copy that attackers cannot delete or change.
What to back up
- Servers and line-of-business applications
- Employee laptops and desktops where files live locally
- Microsoft 365 mail, files and Teams data, which Microsoft does not back up the way many people assume
- Network and firewall configurations
Test it
A backup that has never been restored is only a hope. Schedule restore tests, record how long they take and fix what fails. Review the plan whenever you add a system or move to the cloud.
How CTEKS helps
We design, monitor and test backup and disaster recovery for servers, endpoints and Microsoft 365, and we report on the results so you know recovery works.
Frequently asked questions
How often should we back up?
It depends on your recovery point objective. Many businesses back up critical systems several times a day and others nightly.
Is cloud backup enough?
It can be, if it is protected, monitored and tested. Many businesses also keep a fast local copy for quick restores.
Does Microsoft 365 back up my data?
Microsoft keeps the service running, but you are responsible for protecting your data. An independent backup closes that gap.
See how we handle this on our backup and data protection page. Want a second opinion on your own setup? Request a free assessment and we will walk you through it in plain English.
Keep reading
- Cybersecurity Priorities for Small Business in 2026
- Healthcare IT Support and Cybersecurity Guide
- Hybrid Cloud vs On-Premise IT: How to Choose
More guides are in our knowledge base. Prefer to talk it through? See our support plans or call (847) 200-3666.
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