Producing and storing electronic information: core principles for network and data protection.

• Author: Colby, Kent L.
• Position: TECHNOLOGY

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Since the beginning of time, precious information has been stored in a variety of mediums--stone tablets, parchment scrolls, paper--in well-guarded repositories around the civilized world. From the Royal Library of Alexandria during the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt to the monasteries of medieval Europe the concept of guarding knowledge in a safe place is time eternal. Until modern day, that is, when companies too often fall behind the curve in organizing and protecting their electronic data, risking perhaps their greatest asset--corporate knowledge.

Beyond the need for safe and secure data storage, there is the common sense logic that comes from encouraging an efficient, organized work environment. So why the lag in protecting that core resource? The reasons are many. Some small businesses struggle to have the most basic network and data storage. Distracted by simply making payroll, they underprioritize such basic data-protection steps as performing regularly scheduled backups and storing such backups off-site for disaster recovery. Also, small businesses too often operate with a single information technology expert, who is overtasked with basic, level-one duties, such as troubleshooting e-mail problems and ensuring network access for new employees. The core principles of a sound network and data-protection setup are lost in the fray of everyday operations.

Small business is not alone in its unfortunate disregard for electronic data protection. Even the largest of private companies and government operators are too often shortsighted in safeguarding their electronic knowledge base, and need an outside firm to show them the way.

Ketchikan-based Business Computer Systems is one of several firms statewide guiding small and large Alaska companies through successful transitions to electronic data and the corresponding data storage and protection. The high-tech business manages servers and off-site back ups for clientele ranging from convenience stores to a helicopter company. BCS provides network security, firewall protection, data storage architecture and on--and off-site back ups--all necessary elements of the IT age.

PROTECTION POINTS

Safe data storage spans several levels of preparedness.

First, an operation requires simple access processes allowing employees the ability to use electronic business tools. This includes a network login, access to e-mail and voice mail, perhaps use of a company owned personal digital...