subject: How To Save Money On Your Archival Data Storage [print this page] In these tough economic times, any tricks and techniques to save money are helpful to keeping a business afloat and maintaining a healthy bottom line. Since computers are fundamental equipment for running enterprises of all sizes, the type of archival data storage you choose is essential to long-term success. Here are some ways to save money on your storage without compromising quality.
--Go with tape drives instead of DVDs and CDs
The cost of them is lower than DVDs and CDs which is already a money-saver: but tape drives are also more durable and more reliable. It makes no fiscal sense whatsoever to store on a DVD or CD only to find out later that you cannot recover your data due to a mechanical or technical glitch. It will cost a small fortune to restore your data, if it's even possible at all, but by going with them instead you will never risk recovery problems ever.
--Used storage tools
Of course, since computers are machines they are subject to failure. Loss of data is unacceptable and therefore businesses use a variety of storage tools to back up their files. The most common storage tools are magnetic: floppy discs and tape. Unlike disks, idle drives do not require any electricity or other power source: and this alone saves money. Tape is handy in circumstances where data needs to be stored in sequential order, and many profitable businesses will buy them in bulk.
A great way to save money is to go with used drives instead of buying brand new. There are many companies that sell used them online, so you can always get as many as you need at a much lower price. Used tape drives are every bit as durable and dependable as new ones, and they make archival storage not only practical but affordable.
--Use off-site services
Whether you save your files as on them or not, you can choose to store your data off-site if you wish. If you go this route, be careful in selecting the backup provider. You want to choose one who will encrypt your data and provide you with limitless access to your information. It is a competitive business, and by getting bids from a range of providers you can ensure that you will be getting the backup you need at the best possible price.
Most companies can store their drives just fine in-house, and it's obviously much cheaper than paying for off-site services. To save the optimal amount of money on your storage: go with tape drives and buy them used.
