Q: What if we already have a tape backup system?

Using a tape backup system and a remote backup system offers the best of both worlds. Critical files, like billing, customer contact files and databases can be kept on the remote backup system. While, the tape system can be used to create a full backup of the entire system once or twice a month, instead of on a daily basis. The tapes and drive will last longer and require less maintenance. The remote backup system can provide a quick and easy way to retrieve critical files and databases without the hassle of searching through tapes.

Q: What if we already have a Zip drive?

Frankly, we believe that it is not optimal for most users to use a zip drive or other removable disk media for backup. A remote backup service is completely automated and has the required file redundancy to protect important data. The only safe way to use a zip drive for backup is to have three disks and make the same backup three times. That way when one of the disk fails, you are still protected.

Q: How long will a Remote Backup take?

Offices with high-speed internet connections should find the speed of this service comparable the speed of backing up on tape drives. The difference is, you don't have to be there. Our service does it automatically for you. Even dialup users will be able to do incremental backups in thirty to sixty minutes. The initial backup can take several nights to complete. We recommend backing up the most important files first and then selecting other files as the backup progresses. Or, we can arrange to have the initial backup run over the weekend. Also, we can come to your office and make the initial backup of the files you want protected.

Q: How does Remote Online Backup work?

Basically, remote backups work like regular tape backups, with one important difference. Instead of sending backups to a tape drive or other media attached to the computer being backed up, a computer with our Remote Backup software installed, sends its backup data over regular telephone lines to Northwest Technical's protected and secure backup servers. The client runs a program called an RBS Client on their computer and they leave their computer and modem (or other internet connection) on at night. Sometime during the night, while their business is closed, and they are asleep, their NWTEC RBS Client software "wakes up." It looks around to see which files have been used that day, and which need to be backed up. It then automatically dials NWTEC's Remote Backup Server and sends the backup. Our Server stores the data, then hangs up and waits for the next call. It's completely automatic. In fact, you may even forget it's working for you every night.

Q: Why are Remote Backups considered superior to Onsite Backups?

In the case of a theft, flood or fire, remote backups ensure that your data remains safe, even though you may suffer loss of your computers or of your facilities. The data is immediately stored off-site using an automated backup system. Also, only an internet connection is needed. Completely eliminating the need for expensive backup equipment and media. And since the system is automated, manual labor is eliminated. Unfortunately, for one reason or another,m most businesses don't have a regular backup routine. Usually it's because the person responsible for doing backups is too busy or they forget, or someone is using the computer when it's time for a backup. Since Remote Backups are done with automated software at night, when nobody is using the computer, backups are always done on schedule.

Q: Can I be selective in the files I want backed up?

Yes you can. Keep in mind that ordinary onsite backup software is often installed with a list of files to be backed up. This set of files usually represents the state of the system when the software was installed. But unless the user keeps this file list updated, it often fails to back up files that are added later. Northwest Technical's Remote Backups solve this problem with a sophisticated system that constantly reevaluates each client's system, adding files to the backup as needed.

Q: What is encryption? And why is it important?

Encryption is basically a mathematical formula that scrambles a data file. And the only way to unscramble it is with the encryption code.

Why is it necessary? Tape backups performed by users are typically not encrypted. Therefore, anyone who has access to your backup tapes can potentially read your important data, such as your client database, accounting and payroll records and other proprietary information. Northwest Technical's Remote Online Backup system encrypts its backups to ensure complete security and privacy. No one--not even Northwest Technical--can read your data. It's that secure.

Q: How secure are Remote Backups?

Very. All files are encrypted using Blowfish or DES encryption which is selected by the user with their own personal encryption code that is only known by the user of the system. Blowfish encryption has never been broken by a hacker. DES is used by the federal banking system.

Q: How do I get started?

Just download the software on our homepage and then give us a call. We will help you configure the Remote Backup software and open an account for you. We have several options for payment available too.