Top Questions You Should Ask Your Backup Provider

 A famous adage goes that it's better to ask the way twice, rather than fear asking and get lost. Thus, as soon as you start developing your backup plan, whether it is for ESXi backup VM, Office 365 backup, or any other system needing data protection, take your time to ask the provider some vital questions before choosing them to handle your backup needs. 

Please note that questioning is an art and skill you develop gradually through experience. Thus, failing to ask the right questions correctly could land you the wrong suitor for your data backup needs. Remember, landing the wrong provider means landing your business in uncertainty when a data crash strikes. 

Here are the top ten questions to ask a potential vendor before hiring them. Keep on reading to learn more.

What happens if I want to switch to another vendor?

It would be best if you got clear and honest answers to this question before entering their fold. The reason is that it's easier to enter someone's "box" because they enticed you with sweet offers. Some rogue vendors could exploit you by making it frustratingly difficult to exit their contract. Read their contractual terms well to know what it takes and costs to terminate a contract.

Will I enjoy end-to-end encryption?

Asking and getting an answer to this question gives you a clear idea of how safe your data will be while in transition.

Will I pay for data recovery and testing separately?

Vendor terms differ. Thus, never assume your signup fee will automatically cover everything. Always ensure that their contract says so, or you could end up incurring hidden costs you never budgeted for. 

Do you own your physical data center, or you rent it from someone else?

Asking this question and getting its honest answers enables you to know the vendor's level of control over your data. If they lease their hardware or data center, please look for another vendor. 

What is your service scope?

Ask this question to get a clear picture of what you will enjoy. Otherwise, you could sign up only to discover later that the supplier doesn't provide some of the solutions you need. In turn, you may be forced to get another vendor. 

What kind of technical support will I enjoy?

Don't forget to ask the potential vendor the kind of technical support you will enjoy. They should specify the kind of support you are entitled to and whether the support is available 24/7. Otherwise, you might end up stuck with a supplier who will leave you in the dark when you need them the most. Ensure that they have local support so that you don't start making international calls to find the support people are still asleep. 

What is your average downtime?

Never underestimate this question because staying "down" for a long time after a disaster could quickly degenerate into staying out of business. If the provider's average downtime doesn't fit your reasonable limit of being down, look for another supplier. Otherwise, you might be both "down and out" of business.

What payment plans do you have?

Does the vendor offer fixed signups, or they also allow for flexible walk-in-walk-out arrangements? Make sure you know the truth before signing any contract with them. This way, you only sign up after knowing that their signup plan meets your needs. 

Does your technology use instant local virtualization?

Ensure that the vendor confirms if their recovery solutions allow you to have local servers booting instantly to facilitate faster recovery.

Can you provide me with some of your happy customers?

Lastly, the vendor should be willing to show you some of their happy customers. This way, you will have neutral referees to give you a clear foretaste of what you will experience. Remember, customers are your best referrals because they will tell you the whole truth about the supplier.

Asking a prospective backup provider the right questions is a sure way of getting the best deal. Their answers will help you make an informed choice that gives you value for your time, money, and efforts. It's up to you to use the above sample questions as a gauge before hiring a backup vendor.