5 Crucial Reasons to Back Up Your Microsoft 365 Data

Microsoft 365 is the centre of many organizations’ collaboration front these days, and most could not go without it if Microsoft 365 was to go down or disappear.

We all need to understand that the data in M365 belongs to us, not Microsoft. Most do not realize that traditional data protection methods need to be applied to everything, including your Microsoft 365 data.

Ensuring the safety and security of your Microsoft 365 data is essential, as Microsoft's native backup functions are not typically sufficient to protect your data. Here are five key reasons why backing up Microsoft 365 data is crucial for businesses.

1. Microsoft's limited responsibility:
   Contrary to popular belief, Microsoft is not accountable for the protection of your Microsoft 365 data. While they provide certain data protection features, it is ultimately the customer's responsibility to safeguard their data. 
   
   This is no different than your relationship with your cell phone carrier. They provide the service, but your pictures, text messages (and so forth) stored on your phone is your responsibility to back up.
2. Potential unrecoverable data loss:
   Although Microsoft 365 offers built-in features like data replication and retention policies, they are not foolproof. Accidental deletions or breaches may result in permanent data loss, particularly if not detected within the retention period.
3. Impact of cyberattacks on business continuity and reputation:
   Ransomware and other cyberattacks pose a growing threat to businesses, potentially causing operational disruptions and damaging brand reputation. With proper backup and recovery solutions, businesses can mitigate these risks and restore operations swiftly.
4. Compliance requirements and consequences:
   Many industries face strict compliance regulations that necessitate data retention for specific periods. Failure to comply can lead to severe penalties and litigation. Your Managed Service Provider (MSP) can offer granular recovery and search capabilities to assist you in meeting compliance standards.
5. Increased risk due to device accessibility:
   With the rise of remote and hybrid work environments, data can be accessed from various devices, making it susceptible to both human error and malicious activities. Your MSP can help you protect your data through endpoint protection and implement cybersecurity best practices.

MSPs like Infinite IT can assist your business back up Microsoft 365 data through services like Backup as a Service (BaaS), providing cloud-based backup solutions and managing the backup process. We can also offer cybersecurity training to enhance your employee security awareness and educate you about the risks associated with inadequate backup and disaster recovery.

By partnering with an expert provider like Infinite IT, risk for your Microsoft 365 data is reduced drastically with our comprehensive backup solution for Microsoft 365 and other cloud services, layered with our emergency inbox, email archiving, legal hold and eDiscovery technologies to further protect the data integrity of your email.

We empower our customers while ensuring business growth and peace of mind.

Not sure if your M365 solution is set up properly and protected? Contact us today for a free M365 assessment and provide you with the due diligence you deserve.