The key for ensuring you are protected in case of a server failure, computer crash, disaster, virus or ransomware attack is to make sure you have a good backup plan in place.  Follow these simple tips to ensure you are prepared in case the worst happens

1. Backup, backup, backup! It never hurts to have too many backups, so make sure you back up the program nightly and before you start every month end close.
   IMPORTANT: Make sure to make your backup using the Sage BusinessWorks backup utility that is built into the program. Using this backup ensures that all Sage BusinessWorks files have been appropriately shut down prior to making your nightly backup.
   
   
   • To access the backup, select File, Backup
     1. Once in the backup click Next >
     2. Select your company ID to select the company to back up
     3. Click Next >
     4. On the Select Backup File Name screen select the desired location of your backup on the left hand side
        
     5. Enter the Backup File Name
        
     6. Click Next >
     7. Click Sart
   • The SYSTEM backup can be made monthly as this contains your custom forms, registration information and users and doesn’t change as frequently as your company database
     
   • Company databases should be backed up nightly if the program is used every day
     
     
2. Keep at least a weekly data backup offsite. Also keep one SYSTEM backup (this backup does not have to occur weekly) with your data backup. With the increase in virus and ransomware attacks, it is becoming more important to have a copy of the backup files that are not stored on your local network. Some examples of mediums you can backup files to include:
   • USB Flash Drives
   • External Hard Drives
   • Cloud Drives
   • Writable CDs or DVDs

The important thing to remember is after the backup is made to be sure to remove the device from the computer to ensure it cannot be compromised in case of an attack.

3. Test your backup to ensure you have a good backup.
   • Restore your backup to a NEW company ID to ensure you are comfortable with the restore process and to ensure your backup medium is functioning correctly.
   • Note: The restore process cannot be reversed. Use caution when working with this task. Always make a backup first. If necessary, seek the assistance of a qualified Sage Software support analyst.
     1. Select File, Restore
     2. Click Next
     3. Browse to the file you want to restore and select the file
     4. Click Next
     5. On the Begin Restore screen check the "Restore to New Company ID" box and enter new Company ID
   • Note: Users rights are granted on a company by company basis. Since this is a new company, you will need to grant users rights to the new company. If you do not have access to Maintain Users, it will be necessary to login as MANAGER which has rights to all companies automatically.

Prior to accessing the new company:

1. Select Utilities, Maintain Users and select the user
2. Click Security Settings
3. Click the ... in the top right hand corner and select the new company
4. Grant the user access to the necessary modules in Sage BusinessWorks
5. Select OK and Save

Following these steps can help ensure if the worst does happen that you can easily get your Sage BusinessWorks program up and running quickly and efficiently.