When it comes to data protection and loss prevention, the most effective strategy today is to back up your data! Backup is vital for business security and resilience, and it gives you peace of mind that all your precious memories are safe and sound.
The golden 3-2-1 backup rule, as you may have heard, suggests having three copies of your data stored on two different media plus one copy off-site. This is valid even if you rely on saving files in the cloud. That’s why the best practices recommend using a third-party backup solution for your cloud storage content.
In this blog post, we'll focus on one of the most widely used cloud storage services, OneDrive, and the steps you should take to protect the data you store there. The insights shared here can be applied equally to other M365 services (SharePoint, Exchange, Teams, etc.).
Why should you back up your OneDrive with a third-party provider?
Most users and organisations think that they protect their important files when they upload them to cloud storage. You’ll probably be surprised that this doesn’t mean the data is safe!
On the contrary! Microsoft advises its customers to regularly back up their data and content with dedicated third-party solutions, as data protection is the client’s responsibility.
You have probably not read or even heard about the Microsoft service agreement from September 2023, particularly section 6.b. In this section, the tech vendor clearly states that “Microsoft is not liable for any disruption or loss you may suffer” and warns that “you may not be able to retrieve your Content or Data you’ve stored.” They also recommend regularly backing up your data stored on the services using third-party apps and services. This is crucial information for businesses that need a backup and data protection for cyber insurance compliance!
So, Microsoft is not responsible for safeguarding your data in OneDrive (or any M365 service), and all users and business clients better be aware of Microsoft’s shared responsibility model!
What is Microsoft's shared responsibility model, and how does it affect users?
The model states that Microsoft handles infrastructure security, while data protection is the client’s responsibility.
Microsoft’s responsibilities include:
- Global infrastructure (M365 cloud service, data replication, geo redundancy, recycle bin for short-term data recovery).
- Infrastructure-level security (physical data centre, app-level and user/admin controls).
- Data processor compliance with data privacy standards and regulations.
Your responsibilities are:
- To manage and back up your Microsoft 365 data.
- To ensure data-level security against malware, ransomware, phishing, and accidental deletion.
- To meet compliance regulations as data owner (e.g. NIS2).
So, what comes next? To safeguard your data, you should select a reliable backup service provider!
Expert recommendation: Acronis M365 Backup Plans for Reliable OneDrive Data Protection
Among the many offerings on the market, the Acronis backup solution for M365 is a highly preferred option for several reasons:
- Recognised as one of the top 5 solutions for Microsoft service backup in the industry-trusted DCIG reports.
- Relies on 52 Acronis data centres across the globe, providing secure cloud backup, transparent reporting and detailed audit logs.
- Delivers comprehensive, multilayered protection against all potential data loss risks (accidental deletion, cyberattacks, slow recovery, etc.) with unlimited Acronis cloud storage.
- Provides full backups of OneDrive, Exchange Online, SharePoint, Teams and personal M365 mailboxes with unlimited retention and granular recovery.
- Offers affordable pricing, giving you all these benefits for just a fraction of the cost of the M365 licence.
- The backup process occurs directly from Microsoft data centres to Acronis cloud storage, eliminating the need for clients to take additional steps.
- Acronis M365 backup plans can be bundled with extra security solutions for added value, delivering a comprehensive service tailored to client needs. Businesses can build their M365 security with Acronis packages such as Advanced email security, Collaboration security for M365, and Advanced Security and XDR.
How does Acronis backup for M365 help you protect your data?
Acronis Backup for M365 provides full multilayered protection of Microsoft 365 services and applications. This includes data backup, email archiving, security monitoring and management, and scanning backups for malicious content. Additionally, it ensures the security of email, SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive.
It also provides you with full control and visibility over your valuable data. Plus, with the ability to recover rapidly in just seconds, you can minimise downtime and keep your productivity on track.
What are Acronis' multiple layers of protection?
- Data protection: Backup and email archiving
- Security protection: Email and app security, and a backup scan
- Monitoring and management
Elevate your Microsoft 365 experience with Acronis
With Acronis M365 backup plans, you can ensure comprehensive protection for all M365 data, giving you complete peace of mind. Experience simplified processes, scalable management, and an intuitive user interface that make handling your data a breeze.
The best part? Acronis offers cost-effective, all-in-one protection for every platform, device, or service! Don't risk losing your data - take proactive measures to secure your OneDrive and other Microsoft 365 services with Acronis.
Ensure the safety and continuity of your data with integrated protection. Contact us for a free consultation to learn more!