Hardware or System Malfunctions (78
percent of all data loss) |
| Possible Symptoms |
- Error message stating the device is not recognized
- Previously accessible data suddenly gone
- Scraping or rattling sound
- Hard drive not spinning
- Computer hard drive doesn't function
|
| Examples |
- Electrical failure
- Head/media crash
- Controller failure
|
| Preventive Measures |
- Protect electrical components by using computers
in a dry, shaded, dust-free area
- Protect against power surges with an
uninterruptable power supply (UPS)
- Do not shake or remove the covers on hard drives
or tapes.
|
Human Error (11 percent of all data loss)
|
| Possible Symptoms |
- Previously accessible data suddenly gone
- Message similar to "File Not Found"
|
| Examples |
- Accidental deletion or drive format
- Trauma caused by drop or fall
|
| Preventive Measures |
- Never attempt any operation, like installations or
repairs, with which you don't have experience
- Avoid moving your computer, especially when it's
in operation
|
Software Corruption (7 percent of all
data loss) |
| Possible Symptoms |
- System messages relating to memory errors
- Software application won't load
- Error message stating data is corrupted or
inaccessible
|
| Examples |
- Corruption caused by diagnostic or repair tools
- Failed backups
- Configuration complexity
|
| Preventive Measures |
- Back up data regularly
- Use diagnostic utilities with caution
|
Computer Viruses (2 percent of all data
loss) |
| Possible Symptoms |
- Blank screen
- Strange and unpredictable behavior
- Error message stating
- "File Not Found" Message announcing virus appears
on screen
|
| Examples |
- Boot sector viruses
- File infecting viruses
- Polymorphic viruses
|
| Preventive Measures |
- Use a good anti-virus package and update regularly
- Obtain software from reputable sources
- Scan all incoming data, including packaged
software, for viruses
|
Natural Disasters (1 percent of all
data loss) |
| Possible Symptoms |
- While floods and earthquakes have obvious
symptoms, brownouts and lightning strikes often leave
no clues
|
| Examples |
|
| Preventive Measures |
- Store tested backups in an off-site location
- Install a UPS
- Don't store critical data in a flood plain
|
