Discover Why Your Data Is More Secure With An Online CRM System

If you have an internally hosted customer relationship management system (CRM) or a desktop CRM there is no mystery when it comes to your data storage. With a desktop CRM it's all on your hard drive. Internally hosted systems house your data on an internal server. But what about web based CRM software or online CRM systems? Where is the data kept and is it secure?

With an online CRM system you can access your data from anywhere on any computer. Whether you are in the office, at home or even traveling, all you need is an internet connection and user name and password to log in. Your CRM provider takes care of hosting your data. But what does this mean? Where is your data stored?

Some very large online CRM providers have their own servers but the majority use state of the art data centers to keep your client records safe. Oddly enough many business owners have shunned web based CRM systems in the belief that they are not as secure as their internally hosted or desktop counterparts. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact this is kind of like saying that your money is more secure in your sock draw than it is in a bank vault. The data facilities used by online CRM providers are often the very same centers used to house sensitive banking data.

Obviously they take security very seriously and security features include: 24 hour security personnel, extensive video surveillance and restricted access. Within the centre itself, many of the dedicated servers are in secure cabinets for added protection. Most data facilities are housed in windowless buildings while others are situated in underground bunkers to ensure no unauthorized entry goes undetected.

Data centers also protect against more than information thieves and vandals. These facilities are equipped to withstand natural disasters, power outages and fires. Gas systems similar to those used in Art Galleries are installed to ensure a fire can be detected early and subdued before damaging any server equipment. What this means is peace of mind for your business. If an earthquake, fire or flood was to occur chances are the last thing you would be thinking about is your internal server or computer. With online CRM software your data is taken care of.

For extra security your provider and/or the data center will back up your data regularly. How regularly? Most companies with internal server CRM systems tend to backup their data no more than every month or every fortnight if they are diligent. Desktop CRM users are lucky to back up their data more than once every 6 months. On the other hand Web Based CRM providers usually back up your data daily. This can vary, so check with your CRM provider to see how often they save your data. Some systems may only backup every 48 hours but a select few even do disk saves twice a day.

As you can see web based CRM providers don't take data security lightly. And you shouldn't either. If you're concerned about the security of your office, the reliability of your internal server equipment or are just plain lazy when it comes to backups it might be worthwhile switching to online CRM. Online CRM providers tend to be more cost effective as they charge an all inclusive flat monthly fee which is highly competitive. And their systems are often far superior to other CRM software.

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