Data loss
![](/images/0/01/System_fund.png)
Data loss is the unplanned or unintended or accidental or purposeful corruption of data. Data is any stored information (user data, operating system data, etc.).
Causes of data loss[edit]
There are hundreds of reasons we can experience data loss. However, these can broadly fit into the categories below.
cause of data loss | for example |
malicious activities |
|
Natural disaster |
|
system failure |
|
Consequences of data loss[edit]
Data loss can have significant consequences, depending on the nature of the data and the context in which it is used. Here are some possible consequences of data loss in a specified situation:
- A business may suffer financial losses if data loss results in the inability to complete transactions or access important financial information.
- Data loss in a healthcare setting can have serious consequences for patient care, as it may result in the loss of important medical records or treatment information.
- In the education sector, data loss can result in the loss of important grades, transcripts, and other student records.
- Data loss in a government organization can compromise sensitive information and potentially have serious security implications.
- Data loss in a research setting can be detrimental, as it may result in the loss of valuable data that has been collected over a long period of time.
Overall, data loss can have significant negative consequences for individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. It is important to take steps to prevent data loss and have a plan in place to minimize the impact if it does occur.
Preventing data loss[edit]
Strategy for prevention | Description |
failover systems | a failover system is a standby/ redundant system which is used to eliminate or reduce downtime on users by automatically taking over if the primary system suddenly becomes unavailable. A failover system does not have to be on the same physical server. |
redundancy | when we have duplicate components. For example, 2 power supplies, extra memory (unused), 2 network interface cards, etc... This is VERY common in servers, as if one system fails another is immediately available. |
removable media | when we can remove data on a CD or tape drive we reduce the chance that a failure on the system will damage data, because the data isn't on the system. |
offsite/online storage | moving data to another physical location helps to protect it from problems in the original location. Online storage works the same way. |
Real-world practical advice[edit]
I'm happy to report that data loss is rarer today than it was 10 years ago. However, without careful planning, we can be assured a data loss will occur. Whenever you design a system, you should include fault-tolerance, redundancy, offline/ online storage, and failover into your design.
Standards[edit]
- Identify a range of causes of data loss.
- Outline the consequences of data loss in a specified situation.
- Describe a range of methods that can be used to prevent data loss.