Is it worth paying for automatic daily backups?

Updated

Automatic daily backups are a way to ensure your business data is copied and saved every day without needing manual effort. This means if something goes wrong—like accidental deletion, hardware failure, or a cyber-attack—you have a recent copy of your information ready to restore quickly. For UK small businesses and SMEs, this can be a crucial safety net that protects your operations and reputation.

Why this matters for UK SMEs

Data loss or downtime can be costly. When your systems are offline or data is lost, staff productivity drops, customers may lose trust, and you risk falling foul of regulations like UK GDPR or the Data Protection Act 2018. For example, if you lose customer records or financial information, you might face fines or damage to your brand. Automatic daily backups reduce these risks by making sure you have up-to-date copies of your data, enabling faster recovery and less disruption.

A typical scenario

Imagine a UK SME with around 50 employees that handles customer orders, invoicing, and sensitive personal data. One day, a ransomware attack encrypts their files, making them inaccessible. Without recent backups, they might have to pay a ransom or rebuild data from scratch, causing days or weeks of downtime. However, with automatic daily backups stored securely offsite, their IT provider can restore the latest clean version of their data within hours, keeping the business running and meeting compliance requirements for data protection.

What to check and ask your IT provider

  • Backup frequency and scope: Are backups performed daily? Do they cover all critical systems, including servers, workstations, and cloud data?
  • Storage location: Are backups stored offsite or in the cloud to protect against physical damage like fire or flood?
  • Data retention: How long are backups kept? Can you access previous versions if needed?
  • Security measures: Are backups encrypted both in transit and at rest? Is multi-factor authentication (MFA) used to access backup systems?
  • Testing and recovery: Does the provider regularly test backup restores to ensure data integrity and quick recovery?
  • Compliance support: Can the backup solution help meet UK GDPR and Cyber Essentials requirements, including audit trails and access controls?

Simple internal checks

  • Confirm who has access to backup data and ensure access is limited to authorised personnel.
  • Review your backup schedules and logs to verify backups are completing successfully.
  • Check that backup passwords and encryption keys are securely stored and managed.
  • Ensure devices that hold backup data are updated and protected with antivirus and patching.

Automatic daily backups are a practical investment in your business resilience. They reduce the risk of costly downtime and data loss while supporting compliance with UK data protection standards. To find the right solution for your business, speak with a trusted managed IT provider or IT advisor who can assess your needs, explain options clearly, and help implement a backup strategy that fits your budget and risk profile.

Tools & software for this topic

Not ready to change IT providers yet? These buying guides walk through tools your team can use to improve things on your own.

We may earn a small commission if you sign up with any of these tools and services, at no extra cost to you. We only feature tools that are appropriate for British businesses like yours.

Tools you can try right away

These tools line up with the topics in this guide and are commonly used by small and mid-sized businesses.

Acronis Cyber Protect

Best for: Best for UK SMEs seeking combined backup and malware protection in one solution

Integrated backup and cybersecurity for reliable data protection

Acronis Cyber Protect combines backup, disaster recovery, and cybersecurity features in a single platform. It is commonly used by organisations that want to reduce risk with integrated malware defence alongside data protection. Many find it useful for managing backups and security from one console.

AvePoint Cloud Backup

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing comprehensive Microsoft 365 backup with granular recovery

Reliable cloud backup for Microsoft 365 with flexible restore options

AvePoint Cloud Backup is commonly used to protect Microsoft 365 data including emails, files, and Teams. It offers flexible restore options and supports compliance with UK data protection standards. Many organisations use it to reduce risk and simplify data recovery.

Backblaze Business Backup

Best for: Best for UK SMEs seeking simple, cost-effective cloud backup with unlimited data

Reliable cloud backup for straightforward data protection and recovery

Backblaze Business Backup is commonly used by small businesses for easy, unlimited cloud backup. It offers straightforward setup and predictable pricing, helping organisations protect data without complex management or hidden fees.

Backupify (Datto)

Best for: Best for UK SMEs using Microsoft 365 that want reliable, automated backup with straightforward restore tools

Automated cloud backup for Microsoft 365 with easy recovery options

Backupify (Datto) is commonly used to protect Microsoft 365 data including emails, files, and calendars. It offers automated backups with simple recovery options, helping businesses reduce data loss risk and maintain productivity without complex setup.

Box Business

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing combined backup and team file access

Secure cloud backup with easy file sharing and collaboration

Box Business is commonly used by SMEs to back up data while enabling secure file sharing and collaboration. It offers strong integration with popular productivity tools and supports compliance with UK data protection standards.

Carbonite for Business

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing straightforward cloud backup with easy restore

Reliable cloud backup with flexible recovery options for SMEs

Carbonite for Business is commonly used for cloud backup and disaster recovery by small and medium-sized organisations. It offers automated backups with flexible restore options, helping reduce data loss risk and maintain business continuity.

Need hands-on help?

If you’d rather have a provider handle this for you, here are firms that work on Backup & Disaster Recovery in United Kingdom.

Top firms for Backup & Disaster Recovery
Novatech
Portsmouth, England

Overview

Novatech is a managed IT services provider based in Portsmouth, England. This IT support company focuses on delivering practical solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises, charities, and education sectors across the UK. They specialise in computer building and IT support, aiming to enhance the operational efficiency of their clients.

This MSP helps clients by simplifying complex processes and offering clear guidance in selecting technology tailored to their needs. With a commitment to professionalism and organisation, Novatech ensures reliable service delivery, timely product availability, and customisable options without unnecessary software bloat. They adhere to UK GDPR and other relevant security standards to maintain data protection and privacy.

What clients say about this company

Clients appreciate Novatech for their clear communication and efficient processes. Customers have found it easy to understand their offerings, and they often receive products ahead of schedule, along with helpful support from knowledgeable staff during the purchasing process.

Feedback highlights the professionalism and expertise of the team at Novatech. Customers have noted the staff's ability to provide tailored recommendations and their efficiency in resolving issues, fostering a trustworthy relationship that encourages long-term partnerships.

4.2★
Cloud10 IT & Cloud Services
Manchester, England

Overview

Cloud10 IT & Cloud Services is a managed IT services provider based in Manchester, England. They specialise in delivering reliable IT support tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), charities, and professional services. With a focus on fostering secure communication and efficient issue resolution, this IT support company plays a vital role in enhancing the operational integrity of their clients.

This MSP is dedicated to providing consistent and effective support that simplifies the IT experience for its clients. They ensure that technical issues are resolved swiftly and that there is ongoing communication throughout the process. By offering a range of services, Cloud10 helps organisations streamline their operations while maintaining compliance with regulations such as the UK GDPR and Cyber Essentials.

What clients say about this company

Feedback from clients highlights the exceptional level of support they receive from Cloud10. Many appreciate the ease of raising issues and the prompt response times that facilitate smooth resolutions. Clients often remark on how well the team communicates during troubleshooting, which builds trust and reassurance.

5.0★
Geeks On Wheels
London, England

Overview

Geeks On Wheels is a managed IT services provider based in London, England. They specialise in offering a range of IT solutions to clients across various sectors, focusing particularly on small to medium-sized enterprises, charities, and educational institutions. This IT support company prides itself on dependable service that combines technical expertise with clear communication.

This MSP helps clients address common IT challenges, including connectivity issues, malware concerns, and remote access needs. Their technicians take the time to explain processes and provide tailored support to ensure clients fully understand their systems. With services informed by UK GDPR compliance and Cyber Essentials standards, they deliver solutions that prioritise security and reliability.

Geeks On Wheels also places an emphasis on user training and onboarding, helping clients optimise their technology. They aim to simplify complex tech issues for users, offering hands-on support whether in person or remotely. By focusing on customer satisfaction, this company builds lasting relationships with clients, ensuring their ongoing IT needs are consistently met.

What clients say about this company

Clients have expressed satisfaction with the service provided by Geeks On Wheels, noting their clear communication and effective problem-solving. Many appreciate the straightforward explanations given by technicians during in-home visits. This approach helps demystify technology for users, making IT services feel accessible and manageable.

Feedback highlights the thoroughness of the team, particularly when addressing issues such as malware and connectivity problems. Clients have reported that technicians are responsive and diligent, taking the time to ensure problems are fully resolved. This attention to detail reassures customers that their IT infrastructure is in capable hands.

The honesty and transparency of Geeks On Wheels have also been commended, as they provide clients with realistic assessments of their issues. Customers have noted that the team prioritises ethical service, often recommending cost-effective solutions rather than unnecessary add-ons. This trustworthy approach has fostered a strong sense of loyalty among clients.

4.8★
Solid Rock IT UK
London, England

Overview

Solid Rock IT UK is a managed IT services provider based in London, England. They focus on delivering reliable IT support and tailored solutions for a range of clients, including small and medium-sized enterprises, charities, and educational institutions. With a commitment to security, this IT support company helps clients navigate their IT challenges efficiently.

This MSP specialises in various areas, including cybersecurity, network cabling, and WiFi solutions. They aim to ensure that clients maintain robust IT systems while offering clear communication and thorough follow-up for all services. Solid Rock IT UK places a strong emphasis on delivering personalised support to meet the unique needs of each customer.

What clients say about this company

Clients appreciate the consistent follow-up and clear communication provided by this company. Many have noted the professionalism of their engineers, who demonstrate expertise when addressing issues related to hardware upgrades and system setups at clients' locations.

The company's dedication to thoroughness and transparency has also garnered positive feedback. Clients feel reassured by Solid Rock IT UK's honest approach and their ability to resolve IT issues promptly, helping them achieve necessary cybersecurity certifications and improve their network setups.

4.9★
Optima Computers
London, England

Overview

Optima Computers is a managed IT services provider based in London, England. This IT support company focuses on offering reliable IT solutions to a variety of clients, including small and medium-sized enterprises, charities, and professional services. Their aim is to ensure technology functions smoothly, helping organisations maintain productivity and efficiency.

This MSP provides a range of services, including IT support, data recovery, and WiFi solutions. They are known for their commitment to customer satisfaction, providing clear communication and timely assistance. With a strong emphasis on reliability and transparency, this company tailors its services to meet the specific needs of their clients while adhering to relevant standards such as UK GDPR and Cyber Essentials.

What clients say about this company

Clients often appreciate the personal and attentive service provided by Optima Computers. Many highlight the reliability and speed of their IT support, mentioning prompt responses to issues and effective resolutions. Positive experiences include efficient repairs and transparency regarding costs and procedures.

The commitment to customer care is frequently noted, with clients expressing gratitude for the patience and professionalism of the staff. This managed IT services provider has built a reputation for being friendly and approachable, making the technology-related challenges easier to face for their clients.

4.9★
XPS Solutions Ltd
Hessle, England

Overview

XPS Solutions Ltd is a managed IT services provider based in Hessle, England. This IT support company focuses on delivering comprehensive IT solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), charities, and professional services across the UK. They aim to assist clients in improving their IT infrastructure and ensuring smooth operations.

This MSP offers a range of services, including IT support and WiFi management, tailored to meet the needs of their clients. Their commitment to effective communication, quick response times, and problem resolution underlines their reliability. By adhering to standards such as UK GDPR and Cyber Essentials, they ensure that their solutions are secure and compliant.

What clients say about this company

Clients appreciate the prompt and effective support provided by XPS Solutions Ltd. Many have praised the team's professionalism and their ability to resolve issues rapidly, demonstrating a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. Their staff are often described as helpful and knowledgeable.

Feedback highlights the company's emphasis on empathy and clear communication throughout the support process. Clients report feeling reassured by the team's dedication to solving problems efficiently and providing excellent service, which effectively reduces stress and builds confidence in their IT systems.

5.0★

Related reading