Storage of data is a very important aspect in this world of technology. Data is taking up too much space in most systems in the world and managing it and creating new space is also becoming a necessity. There are possibilities of any malfunctioning when the entire data can get wiped out from the system. Here comes the role of backup storage which is specially designed to retrieve the lost data.
It works by copying the present data into a minimized version where only the important data is copied. The person who wants to retrieve data from the backup storage has two options, one is Onsite Data Backup and the other is Offsite Data. But most people do not know about Onsite and Offsite Data Storage. Thus, today in this article, there will be a comparative study based on Onsite vs Offsite Data Storage where both these options will be defined and it will be decided which is the best.
Table of Contents
What is Onsite Data Storage?
Onsite Data Storage stores important data as entails and stores them for a period of time on local storage devices like DVDs, CDs, hard drives and magnetic tapes.
What are the Advantages of Onsite Data Storage?
There are certain advantages of using Onsite Data Storage which may declare Onsite Data Storage a winner in the battle of Onsite vs Offsite Data Storage. Let’s get to the core of the pros of Onsite Data Storage:
-
Faster Access to Backup Data:
With the help of Onsite Data Storage, the user can store an immense amount of data in the proximity. The user does not need to worry about having a stable internet connection to survive a major data catastrophe. In this case, the user also does not need to be highly qualified enough to handle this kind of data. It can be very simply accessed without much knowledge of data science. This makes the entire process faster and more accessible than Offsite Data Storage.
-
Cost-Effective:
The cost of Onsite Data Storage is lower than that of Offsite Data Storage for the simple reason that not much technology is needed for the overall process. Hard drives are quite easily available in the market and are quite cheaper than technologically advanced gadgets. These cost-effective storage units can be bought in a larger quantity so that there are enough rooms for storage of gigantic amounts of data. Onsite Data Storage is exceptional and this is mainly used by smaller companies or start-ups.
-
Installation:
The installation process of hard drives and DVDs is easy and can be done by any user who has minimal computer-basic knowledge. This kind of data storage can be easily managed as well. Smaller businesses and new companies who have limited data can easily use Onsite Data Storage and they do not need a Data scientist to install these storage devices. Thus, the installation process is easier and without any hassle.
What are the Disadvantages of Onsite Data Storage?
There are certain disadvantages of Onsite Data Storage which are mainly as such:
-
Security:
There is absolutely no guarantee and security that these storage devices will be accessible when needed because they are not guarded well. Storage devices like hard drives, hard disks, CDs and other equipment can get easily misplaced. In some cases, sensitive information can also fall into wrong hands and this can cause major trouble within any business.
-
Damage:
Onsite Data Storage always remains at a certain location from where it can be easily accessed. But in certain situations, these devices can get severely damaged as well. Since data is stored physically, in these situations, the data can never be retrieved and the business will have absolutely no data to start off again.
What is Offsite Data Storage?
Offsite Data Storage backs up important data on a remote server with the help of internet. At times, this storage of data is done with the help of direct access as well. Now, there are certain advantages and disadvantages of Offsite Data Storage as well. Let’s get to know them.
What are the Advantages of Offsite Data Storage?
There are several advantages of Offsite Data Storage which makes it the winner in the battle of Onsite vs. Offsite Data Storage.
-
Large Accessibility:
Offsite Data Storage or Remote Backup System mainly uses cloud computing by which innumerable amount of data is stored. Since cloud computing can be accessed from any location, and the user can bring in any amounts of copies at any given time.
-
Security:
The data is encrypted and there are cybersecurity experts who are guarding the data. Thus, there is an immense level of security against misplacement, stealing or damage.
-
Massive Amounts of Data Storage:
Bigger companies always opt for Offsite Data Storage because they have a huge amount of data that needs to be properly stored, managed and secured. Thus, when the data is huge, Offsite Data Storage is the only solution.
What are the Disadvantages of Offsite Data Storage?
There are many disadvantages of Offsite Data Storage which will need to be examined.
-
Cost:
The cost of Offsite Data Storage is comparatively quite high than Onsite Data Storage. While Onsite Data Storage might cost you very little, this Offsite Data Storage is worth the investment if the company or business wants to grow. Because sooner or later, there will be the need of a much more effective solution to data storage.
-
Speed:
The whole process depends on the internet and thus, if the internet connection is not stable, the retrieval process may take more time than expected. In such cases, one should opt for a stronger connection.
From the comparative study, it is very evident that Onsite Data Storage is cheap and easy. But it has bigger risks involved. Offsite Data Storage is costly, but it is 100% effective. Thus, in this battle between Onsite vs Offsite Data Storage, Offsite Data Storage sounds worthwhile because prevention is always better than the cure. Also, let us know about your thoughts about this in the comment box.
