Ransomware Recovery 101: How to Establish a Backup System That Can’t Be Encrypted.

One of the most common and harmful cyber threats against small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) is ransomware. This is when cyber criminals take over a company’s system and hold it hostage until payment is made. This locks out the system owner from accessing their network infrastructure or encrypting backup files to force the business into paying ransom to regain access. Although this scenario is worrisome, having a good ransomware recovery strategy SMB along with a robust cybersecurity protocol can keep your business safe. This ensures that your data continue to be accessible and secure, regardless of the situation. 

ransomware recovery strategy SMB

Here at EB Solution, we assist SMBs and larger businesses in the USA to plan, implement, and maintain immutable backups. These strategies ensure that your system cannot be held hostage by ransomware. 

Understanding How Ransomware Targets Your Backups 

Ransomware is no longer just the encryption of active files. It searches for related backups. As such, it goes through your servers, local devices, or cloud drives. Hence, the victims are denied access to the data. In instances where the backups are compromised, the organizations only have two options. This is either to pay the ransom or suffer significant downtime. That is why a ransomware recovery strategy SMB is no longer just an option but is a necessity for business survival. Nowadays, all SMBs must have a cyber recovery plan that is designed to include immutable backups, isolation, and backup verification. 

The Foundation: The 3-2-1 Rule in Backups 

A solid ransomware recovery strategy starts with the 3-2-1 rule. This means, there are 3 copies of your data in 2 different storage types and 1 offsite and offline copies. This approach ensures that in case of a ransomware attack, most of your data will still be intact and accessible to you. This flexibility and resilience are achieved by an ability to combine local speed with off-site security which is covered in the 3-2-1 rule. 

Why Immutable Backups Matter 

Immutable backups are backups that cannot be changed, deleted, or encrypted, even by cyber crooks during a ransomware attack. This means that after data is written, it remains constant over a given retention period. Immutability is crucial for SMBs since the data can be recovered after an attack in a short period of time. This also gives you peace of mind that the data has not been altered. Here at EB Solution, we incorporate the use of immutable backup storage in the recovery systems of our clients along with the 3-2-1 rule to guarantee a strong cyber recovery plan, no matter how complex the threat is. 

Offsite Replication for True Resilience 

It is not sufficient to have backups in a single place. This is because, when your whole environment is compromised, backups stored locally are worthless. Given this, offsite replication creates secure data copies in a secondary location that is separate from your main network. This hybrid model is now preferred by many businesses since the combination offers security and speed that reduces downtime. It works well because on-premise backups enable faster recoveries while off-site cloud backups are used in the case of disasters, downtime, or data compromise. 

Backup Verification: Always Confirm, Never Assume 

Another important factor in ransomware recovery strategy SMB, is backup verification. This is because an unverified backup is no backup at all. Regular backup verification should be part of your cyber recovery plan. These test restorations ensure that files are not lost, settings are correct, and systems are not corrupted. This checking can be done either automatically by a managed backup facility or may be done in-person by an IT staff. Here at EB Solution, we recommend critical systems should be validated monthly and the full environment should be tested quarterly. This method will take full advantage of both technology and human resources for better outcomes. 

Building a Cyber Recovery Plan That Works 

A strong cyber recovery plan outlines exactly how your business will respond after a ransomware incident. It is not limited to data recovery, but rather extends to communication, escalation, and business continuity measures. The plan guides everyone involved as recovery is less chaotic when each team member understands their role. Any plan must include: 

• Recovery goals (RTOs) and recovery point goals (RPOs).
• Well-defined roles of IT, management, and personnel.
• Access credentials in the form of backups that are kept in a secure offline location.
• Periodic tests and revision of documentation.

EB Solution’s Ransomware Recovery Strategy SMBs 

A ransomware-resistant backup system is not only about IT security, but it is also about securing your entire business. Prevention and preparation are always the better option over paying ransom. Here at EB Solution, we have a proactive and multi-layered strategy towards ransomware resilience. Our team designs tailored backup and recovery frameworks built around immutability, offsite replication, and real-time monitoring. 

We do not wait until the threats hit. Instead, we assist clients by being steps ahead. We ensure that your data can be restored anytime when required by integrating the latest backup technologies with continuous testing. Protect what matters most for your business. Start by getting in touch with our expert IT and cybersecurity professionals. 

 Call today!