ARP Resources

Data Recovery Tech Bundle

Operating an organization can be difficult in these unprecedented times. Having a predetermined practice for transitioning to virtual space will ensure that there will be no lost time or communication between people within your organization. With this in mind, we have compiled three different IT bundles that can assist you and your organization with your transition towards a more flexible work environment. 

This Data Recovery technology bundle includes a combination of robust hardware, versatile software, and best practices for data backup and recovery. These applications have been vetted by NIWRC for accessibility, ease of use, and ease of integration into current workflows. In a time when online communication has taken a forefront we know choosing applications that work best for your organization is a priority.

Data Recovery:

  • A process of retrieving deleted, inaccessible, lost, corrupted, damaged, or formatted data from secondary storage, removable media or files, when the data stored in them cannot be accessed in a usual way. The data is most often salvaged from storage media such as the cloud, internal or external hard disk drives, USB flash drives, and other electronic devices.

Data Backup:

  • A data backup is a copy of computer data that is stored in a separate location from the original data so it can be used in case of data loss.

Digital etiquette is simply the standards of communicating politely in a digital environment.

NIWRC suggests some of these guidelines when constructing an organization-wide digital communication standard.​​​​​​

  1. Tone can be difficult to convey via text. When in doubt, choose words that convey a cordial, professional demeanor. 
  2. Remember that anything you post on an application or online may be archived, and so should be considered both public and permanent. 
  3. Remember that others are as busy as you are. If your organization utilizes some sort of calendar system, honor this. If a co-worker is out or busy, respect their time.
  4.  Remember that while it is nice to see everyone’s faces over video-conferencing, computer fatigue is very much a real thing. If you are constantly interacting over video calls it is ok for your employees to take a break from on-screen facetime.
  5. Utilize your out of office! It may seem small, but setting your working hours on whichever schedule system your organization uses can be very helpful. It not only lets people know when you are available, but also when you absolutely are not. Keeping work hour boundaries can be beneficial to employee burnout, especially if working from home or hybrid.

Google Workspace Disclaimer

Different programs of the Google productivity suite known as Google Workspace will appear commonly in these tech bundles. This is because it is a multipurpose technology solution.


These applications are useful for many different purposes when using a hybrid or home-based work plan. Google suite offers a variety of different packages depending on the size of your business. Here is a Google Workspace document with more information.


Applications

Below are NIWRC’s suggested data use applications. Many of the applications can be used singularly or integrated together to provide an optimal working environment.

Google Drive

*Information below was pulled from https://www.google.com/drive/ 
Easy and secure access to your digital content.

Google Workplace Pricing Plan

Google Meet is included in the Google Workspace. Note: A Google Workspace is a cloud saving platform of applications that allows you to save and store your digital data. Various workspaces can be created in order to allow maximum workspace organization.

if you already have a registered Google Workspace account sign in here.

If not, Google Workspace is broken into four different price plans; Business Starter, Business Standard, Business Plus, and Enterprise.

See the pricing details here.
 

Google Drive Features 

Built-in protections against malware, spam, and ransomware

Drive provides encrypted and secure access to your information. Files shared with you can be scanned and removed when malware, spam, ransomware, or phishing is detected. Drive runs on cloud sharing which allows you to store less files on your desktop or hard drives.

People-first collaboration apps to supercharge teamwork

Drive is integrated with all other Google Workplace applications such as Docs and Sheets. This allows you to share and collaborate on various different files and drives throughout your organization. Create team specific drives, limit or grant access to specific files, and store everything online and easily accessible with access to the internet.

Integration with the tools and apps your team is already using

Drive has the ability to integrate with a various amount of different applications to keep your current workflow. Drive can collaborate with Microsoft Office files without needing to convert file formats. Drive also allows you to store and edit up to 100 additional file types such as PDFs, CAD files, Images, ect.

Google’s Search and AI technology helps your team move faster

Google search is embedded within Drive and offers the same speed and reliability. Drive search helps your team locate and find files within a drive quickly and efficiently. 

 

Learning Tools

Google Drive has a searchable help center that allows you to lookup the assistance you are in need of. 

Find those resources here: https://support.google.com/drive/?hl=en#topic=14940

Instructional Video:

NIWRC has put together a short instructional video highlighting the various features that this application has in terms of Data Recovery.

 

Backblaze

*Information below was pulled from https://www.backblaze.com/ 
Easy and secure access to your digital content. 

Backblaze Pricing plan

Backblaze offers flexible and straightforward pricing plans for both personal and business use. 

If you already have a registered Backblaze account sign in here.

If not, Backblaze is broken into two products with different price plans; Computer Backup and B2 Cloud Storage.

See the pricing details linked above.
 

Backblaze Features 

Comprehensive Backup Solutions

Backblaze provides automatic and continuous backup for all your files including documents, photos, music, movies, and more. You can back up unlimited data from your computer or external drives with ease. 

Advanced Security and Privacy

Backblaze uses state-of-the-art encryption to ensure your data is secure both during transfer and while stored in the cloud. You can enable private encryption keys to add an additional layer of security to your backups.

Effortless File Restoration

Restore your files quickly and easily from the web, or order a USB flash drive or hard drive to have your data shipped to you. Backblaze offers multiple options for file recovery to suit your needs.

Real-Time File Access and Versioning

Access your files from anywhere with internet access using Backblaze's web interface or mobile app. Backblaze also retains old versions of your files for up to 30 days (or longer with extended version history), allowing you to recover earlier file versions if needed.

Integration with Popular Tools and Services

Backblaze integrates with various tools and applications to support your existing workflows. It seamlessly collaborates with platforms and can be used with the B2 Cloud Storage service for scalable data storage.

Efficient Search and Navigation

Backblaze includes robust search capabilities to help you find the files you need quickly. Its intuitive interface and organized file structure make navigation simple and efficient. 

 

Learning Tools

BackBlaze offers a comprehensive help center where you can find detailed guides, FAQs, and support resources to assist you with any issues or questions you might have.  

Find those resources here.
 

Instructional Video:

NIWRC has put together a short instructional video highlighting the various features that this application has in terms of Data Recovery.

Recommended Equipment

NIWRC suggests investing in the following equipment to create a streamline of data use throughout your organization. 

 

 

Computer and Hard Drive Recommendations

Computer and Hard Drive Recommendations

*Price in May of 2024.
Suggested Equipment Use Explanation Entry-Level Mid-Range High-End
Computers
Laptop A workplace desktop or laptop is essential for virtual work, be it entirely remote, or a hybrid schedule.

If you are having your staff travel back and forth from a physical location, it is suggested to have an easily portable laptop.
Lenovo Flex 5

ASUS VivoBook 15X
Dell Inspiron 15

Microsoft Surface Pro 7
MacBook Pro

Lenovo ThinkPad
Desktop A workplace desktop or laptop is essential for virtual work, be it entirely remote, or a hybrid schedule.

For staff that are fully remote but typically only work for one location, either a singular desktop or laptop can be used.
Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i Dell Inspirion Desktop Dell XPS 8960

Apple iMac
Hard Drives
External A hard drive that is dedicated specifically for your workplace that can work in combination with your work desktop or laptop.

You could have a few harddrives that are team lead specific in order to save important files or data. Use high-capacity external hard drives (e.g., 4TB or higher) for local backups.

The ideal situation is using a cloud based filing system in cases of emergency, but having a backed up hard drive is a safe option for data storing.
Western Digital WD 5TB Elements Portable Seagate Expansion Desktop 8TB Seagate Expansion Desktop 12TB

 

To Request More Information

If you have read through this best practices guide and video tutorials and would like further assistance on how to use, download, and set-up these applications, NIWRC offers technical support. You are able to send your technical support requests by submitting a request form found here: Tech Bundle TA