Hard disk failure

This is the main cause of data loss. Data is stored on platters rapidly spinning inside 3.5" device. Like a record, the head assembly reads data from the surface. These highly sensitive disks can spin of speeds of up to 12,000 rpm. At this speed any mechanical failure can be disastrous. The heads come in contact with the platters, data is literally scraped off the surface, the debris is spread inside the drive, contaminating other components.

To ensure that important files are safe the best solution is to perform regular backups. Meaning: make a copy of the data and store it on another physical media format. Simply moving all files or storing files separately on an external drive is not acceptable unless original copies are kept on the main hard disk. This way you can avoid data disasters and an easy data recovery is copying your data back.

When it comes to corporations, data backup can get tricky. The sheer amount of data is a road block in itself. Having the competent staff on hand to perform the duties regularly is fairly time and resource consuming. Most will rely on software to do the job but many do not bother to confirm that the process is actually working. Backup programs can be unreliable. Securing corporate data is another concern for IT staff. An automated solution usually involves a backup server to keep downtime at a minimum. Restoring a work station can be done across the network remotely. Data recovery can be as simply as a few clicks of the mouse.