Frequently asked questions about ABACUS On-Line Backups.

Q.  What about Open Files?

A.  ABACUS backups your open files (Win XP and 2003 Server) using our exclusive 'Shadow Copy' feature.  Whereas, traditionally open files have been a challenge for tape, CD and other backup solutions, ABACUS solves the proble

 

Q.  How secure is my data?

A.  More secure, for example, than your on-line banking.  That's because when your bank proclaims 128 encryption, they're only talking about the connection between your computer and their server.  Your actual data, as it resides on their system is not encrypted at all!  That's why it such a ripe target for hackers.  ABACUS, on the other hand, encrypts the information not only during the transfer of data, but the storage of the data as well.  

Additionally, when you backup to tape or disk, those tapes can be read by anyone.  They can be lost or destroyed as well.  ABACUS is the most secure method of performing backups available.

 

Q. Where does my data 'go' when I back it up?

A.  Your data goes to your own designated on-line data storage facility located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.  There are mirror locations of the data sets in New York City and San Francisco in the remote chance of disruption due to natural disaster.

 

Q. I already have a tape drive and do all my backups. Why wouldI need a Remote Backup System?

A. Unfortunately, most small businesses do not do proper backups, even though they may have a tape drive. Some people think they are doing backups correctly, then, when they really need them, find out to their dismay that their tapes are useless. Virtually none take their tapes off-site. Many ABACUS clients have tape drives and use them. They like the added security of knowing their critical files are safe.

 

Q. Won't you have access to my company records?

A. No, your files are very securely encrypted before they leave your office. Only you have the password. We cannot access your files.

 

Q.  What about service, support, upgrades, etc?

A.  Technical support is provided free of charge, for the life of your subscription.  You may call our technical support line, 514-575-1770 between 8:30 am - 5:00 pm M-F EST, for help with installation, setting parameters of the software, etc..  Upgrades are provided free of charge, also for the life of your subscription.

 

Q. Do I have to install a special phone line?

A. No, our system uses your broadband internet connection.

 

Q. What do I have to do, how much trouble will this system be for me?

A. You do not have to do anything. Our remote backup system is completely automatic. After it is installed on your computer it requires no maintenance. You just forget it's there.

 

Q. What Operating Systems Does it Work With?

A. It will work with virtually every operating system including Windows, Linux, Mac, Unix, Novell, Solaris.

 

Q. What about backups requiring specialized formatting like databases?

A.  ABACUS Offsite Backup has special plug-ins for all major database formats including Exchange Server, Microsoft SQL, Exchange Server, Oracle, Lotus Notes, MySQL, etc.