In 2009, Metrics Bases Assessments LLC conducted a survey of businesses found that about 95 % of data centers have been moved to some sort of virtualization space. Predictions are that the some will become all as the idea of cloud computing takes off. Virtualization provides a flexibility and efficiency not seen since American physicist John Vincent Atanasoff used a $650 grant in 1937 to create a more efficient way of doing complex mathematical equations. His creation was the Atanasoff-Berry Computer the first of its kind. Virtualization took Atanasoff’s work and the creation of other computer pioneers and streamlined them allowing one computer to run multiple operations simultaneously increasing the efficiency of computer networks and allowing data storage to double, even triple in some instances without adding any physical dimensions. But even though information technology directors are embracing virtualization many are neglecting an important part of the transition – the virtual backup.

Virtual Backup Essential in Virtualization

Having virtual backup is essential when transitioning to virtualization but, sadly, many information technology managers do not have a virtual backup plan. In 2009 Symantec did a survey of thousands of companies around the globe and found out that nearly two-thirds of the virtual machines out there were not backed up. That is a recipe for disaster. Wherever data exist, there is a chance for data loss. It is that simple. The reasons for not doing backing up virtual machines vary, from technology directors thinking they do not have to, to thinking the process is too complicated. But the introduction of VMware Data Recovery can make virtual back up simple and seamless. Newly released, the VMware Data Recovery tool eliminates the need to have two back up servers, reduces redundancies in the back up process and offers companies more flexibility for their virtual back up plans.

Virtual Backup Should Not Be Done Alone

Back up physical servers that you can see, touch and feel is complicated enough, but adding a virtual element can instantly turn up the heat on installing virtual backup systems. Vendors like PHD Virtual can help your information technology department make the right choices when it comes to installing a virtual backup that works seamlessly with your virtualization software. The cost of losing data can never be underestimated. Indeed, the cost in downtime when software downloads are interrupted or just general business practices are stopped can mean the difference between a viable company and one that is dead on arrival.