As the landscape of cyber threats continues to evolve, businesses are finding that traditional backup strategies are simply no longer adequate. The rise of ransomware attacks poses a significant risk not only to operational systems but also to backups themselves, proving that data protection must adopt a new paradigm.

With ransomware becoming increasingly sophisticated, it can encrypt or outright delete backup files, meaning that safeguarding critical data requires more advanced tactics. Key strategies such as immutable storage, air-gapped backups, and a comprehensive multi-layered security approach are now essential for organizations seeking to bolster their defenses.

The initial allure of the cloud as a panacea for data management challenges has faded in light of the harsh realities of costs and practicality. For many enterprises, certain data types simply do not lend themselves well to cloud storage, leading to an understandable wave of cloud repatriation. This shift has further popularized hybrid cloud deployments, integrating both cloud and on-premises resources for optimal performance.

Antoine Yang, Country Manager for Synology Singapore, noted that data protection is a pressing concern for businesses in Singapore. As they navigate their options, disaster recovery features consistently stand out as a vital consideration. The recent surge in ransomware attacks, especially within critical sectors like manufacturing and construction, underscores the urgency behind these discussions.

2023 was marked by a spike in ransomware incidents in Singapore, notably highlighting the vulnerabilities of educational institutions where hackers targeted devices such as iPads and Chromebooks. A recent attack on HomeTeamNS, a non-profit organization, compromised sensitive data, emphasizing the pressing need for enhanced backup and recovery solutions across all sectors.

Emerging data security trends indicate significant growth in the Singapore data security market, projected to expand by 10.68% annually from 2025 to 2029. This statistic reflects an urgent demand for advanced backup and cybersecurity infrastructures as companies strive to protect their data resilience.

In light of these challenges, Synology has launched ActiveProtect, a new line of data protection appliances aimed specifically at addressing modern data protection needs. Unveiled in Singapore this February, ActiveProtect seamlessly integrates enterprise backup software, servers, and backup repositories into a unified solution.

The system supports a wide array of platforms—PCs, Macs, file and physical servers, virtual machines, databases, and Microsoft 365. Not only does this offer unparalleled convenience through a single management interface, but it also incorporates essential features such as immutable backups, air-gap capabilities, and compliance assurance to fend off cyber threats.

Yang points out that many customers express a desire for ownership of their data, which prohibits the migration of sensitive information to the cloud. This has driven the demand for reliable on-premises solutions, an area where Synology’s ActiveProtect excels.

Data Strategy

To counteract threats, Yang emphasizes the importance of multi-layered protection for backup systems. Immutable backups, for example, protect data from unauthorized deletion or manipulation, ensuring that recovery points remain intact in the face of potential attacks.

Another key recommendation is maintaining offline backup sources. In instances where online systems are compromised, having an offline backup can serve as a critical fallback option, thus preserving essential information. Yang suggests that companies should store one copy of their data onsite while also maintaining another isolated copy offsite, safeguarding both storage approaches against possible ransomware incidents.

Further enhancing backup security involves establishing a multi-layered air-gapped backup strategy. This technique adds logical and physical isolation elements to ensure that clean copies of data are preserved, even in the event of a breach.

• Implementing WORM (Write Once, Read Many) storage options, which legally prevent alterations or deletions for a designated duration, thereby reinforcing the sanctity of critical business records.

Synology’s ActiveProtect comes equipped with a suite of security protocols and restoration methodologies that support secure, resilient backup practices, ensuring that organizations are well-prepared against various cybersecurity threats.

Adapting to Change

Unlike other solutions requiring the procurement of hardware and software separately, Synology’s integrated approach alleviates concerns over cost, complexity, and compatibility that many businesses face. This cohesive strategy emerges as particularly advantageous in an evolving technological climate.

Recent changes to Microsoft Office 365 subscriptions illustrate the importance of adaptability within the realm of data management. Educational institutions, among others, encountered significant challenges following the retirement of the Office 365 A1 Plus plan, which resulted in limited storage and access to only web-based applications.

To navigate these cloud storage limitations, it becomes imperative for businesses to manage their backup strategies effectively. Frequent backups ensure that critical data is always safely archived while optimizing overall storage capacities.

“We provide a solution for backing up Microsoft 365. Educational institutions and some of our manufacturing customers use our solution for this,” Yang shared, highlighting Synology’s strategic positioning to cater to diverse customer needs.

Externally, Synology has established itself as a trusted name in Singapore, with notable partnerships, such as the collaboration with LASALLE College of the Arts. The reliable network-attached storage (NAS) servers offered the institution an efficient means to access, search, and manage files within its Apple-centric ecosystem.

ActiveProtect is now available in Singapore through Synology’s distributor and partner network. For further insights, demos, or additional information, visit Synology’s official website or connect with a Synology expert here.

For more details on Synology’s backup solutions, visit Synology’s official website.