Keeping your data clean is essential for any business, especially for those with hybrid/ remote workforce environments. Poorly managed data can have far-reaching consequences, including reduced efficiency and profitability, lost reputation - even legal issues.
With databases becoming more vast by the day, it is essential that workers have access to properly organized information in order to complete tasks efficiently.
In this blog you will learn:
What is Data Deduplication
How Does Data Deduplication Work
The Types of Data Deduplication
Data Deduplication Best Practices
4 benefits of Data File Deduplication
Let’s get into it!
What is Data Deduplication?
Data deduplication is the process of eliminating duplicate data from your network to allow a single copy to be stored.
How Does Data Deduplication Works?
In file deduplication, data is categorized and divided into smaller groups to identify patterns and eliminate duplicate files. Data deduplication not only saves space in your hardware or network but also allows you to reduce traffic congestion by freeing up bandwidth to improve your network’s performance for other tasks.
The Types of Data Deduplication
There are 4 types of data deduplication techniques.
Source Deduplication
Source deduplication is the process of identifying and eliminating redundant copies of data before it's transmitted to the backup server. This ensures a more efficient storage process and conserves valuable bandwidth resources.
Target Deduplication
When making a backup, you'll need a backup medium to store the data. This medium can be a server hosting the backup software, a dedicated device connected to that server, or even a specialized backup appliance.
Target deduplication is the process of eliminating duplicated data once that information is stored in the backup medium.
Inline Deduplication
Inline deduplication removes repetitive data while it's being saved to a backup device to allow you to have a streamlined backup process.
Post-process Deduplication
Post-process deduplication (also known as asynchronous deduplication) is the process of eliminating duplicate data after transferring it to a data storage location.
Data Deduplication Best Practices
Duplicate data is something you'll face on a regular basis. Ignoring it can result in a buildup of unnecessary data, the loss of valuable storage space, inaccurate analytics, and poor data quality and network performance.
To help you avoid duplicated data, we have compiled 5 deduplication best practices for you to follow.
Choose What Fit’s You Best
Each deduplication technique has its advantages and disadvantages. To make the most out of this practice you’ll need to find the one that's the best fit for your business best. That means taking into account factors like cost and storage needs. Choose a deduplication strategy that actually makes sense for your unique needs.
If you're not sure where to start, don't be afraid to seek advice from the experts.
Sort Files by Data Type
Deduplication may not always work well with certain media files, like MP4 and JPEG. To ensure maximum efficiency, it's crucial to sort the data types you handle. Otherwise, you may be disappointed with the outcomes. Keep this in mind for an effective deduplication process.
Don’t Focus on Reduction Rates
Don't fall for exaggerated promises of massive data size reduction. Reduction rates vary widely depending on the type and frequency of data backups. Keep your expectations in check by asking for specific details about how much your data can realistically be shrunk down.
Decide Your Storage Location
If you're considering deploying a deduplication solution, be smart about where you do it. It's not necessary to implement it on every storage media, as it can be costly and not always effective.
Secondary locations, such as backup sites, are prime candidates where deduplication can be a game changer. Be careful not to implement it on primary storage, such as data centers, as it can negatively impact storage performance.
Consider All Expenses
To prevent surprises, taking into account all expenses is crucial when it comes to deduplication. This includes ongoing management and maintenance expenses, as well as the cost of physical storage. Remembering all of these factors will help ensure you have a complete understanding of the expenses involved.
4 Benefits of File Deduplication
Benefit 1: Improved Storage and Backup Capability
With file deduplication, you can store only unique data and drastically reduce storage space, allowing you to devote more space to backups and keep your data safe and sound.
Benefit 2: Lowered Costs
By maximizing your storage equipment, you'll spend less on costly hardware updates and enjoy significant reductions in power and physical space. Plus, you’ll have an enhanced data center environment.
Benefit 3: Increased Network Performance
File deduplication is a great way of optimizing your storage without bogging down your network with unnecessary data transmissions. Instead, the process happens locally, freeing up bandwidth to maintain network speed, performance, and reliability.
Benefit 4: Increased Recovery
File deduplication removes redundant data from the equation, allowing you to perform faster backups and increase recovery times while supporting business continuity.
BTI, The IT Solutions Provider Near Me
Are you ready to embark on your deduplication journey? At BTI we can take care of all of your IT, communication, and physical security needs! Contact us to today to discover how to reduce storage and increase data recovery after a loss.
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