Security.
Security sometimes only gets addressed when it’s too late. We have prepared an info chart that shows you a variety of options to stop or deter thieves from stealing your precious data.
OPTION 1 : Wireless
a) AirPort Extreme + USB HD
b) AirPort Time Capsule 2TB or 3TB
Cost:
a) $249 + USB HD
b) $349 or $449
Pros:
AirPort can be located out of reach and out of sight. No network cables to indicate where Backup device is located.
Option a) can connect to an external HD, possible to swap and take off site.
Facilitates wireless network access if not already present.
Relatively cost effective.
Cons:
Slower USB 2.0 for external HD only (although wireless speed would be the limiting factor).
Option b) internal HD can not be taken off site.
Airport Extreme / Time Capsule are mainly intended to create a wireless network. Backing up to attached / included storage has a few known issues.
OPTION 2 : Padlock / Floor Mount
Some NAS devices have physical protection options included:
Cost:
a) Anti Theft Floor Mount kit (for example for IOSafe NAS for USD$199)
b) Kensington Lock Slot for $90
c) Anchoring Point $10 – $20
Pros:
Most cost effective way to secure a single Dedicated Backup solution.
Cons:
Kensington lock will only prevent grab ‘n go theft.
Equipment is visible or traceable via network cable.
Lock needs to be securely bolted to structure to be fully effective, i.e. loop around table leg discourages the quick thief but does not fully secure.
OPTION 3 : Secure Cabinet
Cost:
Depending on size and quality needed from approximately $100 – $150 to upwards of $1000
Pros:
Cost effective solution to securely house a variety of equipment.
Deters the quick thieves.
Cons:
Large Box attracts attention.
Wall mounted construction.
Determined thief will get access.
OPTION 4 : MacMini + Security Mount
A combination of both backup and redundancy.
Cost:
MacMini : $749(,$999 or $1,249)
+
www.tryten.com : $49
maclocks : $79.95
Pros:
Macmini as a clone of your server, minimal downtime on server failure. Unplug the broken, plug in the backup.
Cheap (keyed) sturdy lock can be bolted to desk or wall.
Cons:
Creating redundancy to limit downtime on server failure becomes more cost effective (or necessary) for medium to large offices.
OPTION 5 : Cloud Storage
Cost:
Carbonite : from $229.99 p/yr
Backblaze : $50 p/computer/yr
SpiderOak : $10 / 100GB / month
Pros:
Offsite and impossible to physically steel, burn or drown.
Data accessible from any computer connected to the internet.
Cons:
Pricey (>$500 p/m) high speed internet connection (such as the fibre optic) with high data allowance is essential.
Conditions differ per service provider (e.g. not all file types may be backup up).
No plug & play backups, i.e. backups need to be downloaded before you can use them.
This chart is for information only. Note costs are taken from supplier’s website and are subject to change. Prices are in AUD unless marked otherwise. Macinteract does not guarantee that provided information is accurate.