Megaupload disaster proves need for backing up data, experts warn

The Megaupload debacle has sparked warnings from several cloud computing experts for businesses to perform proper due diligence on providers so they can download their data if unexpected disasters occur.

The warnings come as the founder of file managing service Megaupload, Kim Dotcom, appeared in court yesterday on charges his website was enabling internet piracy. Dotcom was arrested in New Zealand, along with three of his colleagues, although the FBI is attempting to have them extradited to the United States.

The Megaupload site has been shut down, leaving many individuals and some small businesses without access to their files. Hundreds of customers are lamenting their inability to access crucial data.

Lincoln Lincoln, national practice manager of public cloud for ANZ at EMC, told SmartCompany this morning small businesses must ensure the providers they work with sell backup options.

“The message from all of this is that you just need to do your diligence on the service provider you’re working with,” he said.

And despite critics saying the Megaupload disaster proves the dangers of cloud computing, Lincoln says the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages.

“The benefits are there for everyone to see. The potential improvement in service levels and the reductions in costs are all absolutely valued.”

“You just have to be very careful about who you’re working with.”

Because the Megaupload site has been pulled offline, those businesses and individuals that did not back up files are in serious trouble. Lincoln says it is imperative these businesses backup all their data immediately.

“Using us an example, we provide technology that allows companies to move workloads within certain suppliers, and move that data out of suppliers, be it in a hybrid model or at the beginning and end of a contract term.”

“The public cloud environment is a good one in which to work, just as long as you’re careful about your provider.”

While Lincoln says there is no way for anyone to know whether their provider will be shut down, there is a need for SMEs to back up their data wherever possible.

“It’s all about due diligence and makings sure the provider you work with has the facilities you need to keep your data safe.”

Dotcom was arrested in New Zealand, at his mansion outside of Auckland, four days ago. Since then he has remained in police custody, having been denied bail over concerns he may flee the country.

He founded Megaupload in 2005, and the company turns over $US175 million and has more than 150 employees. Until it was taken down, it remained one of the most popular sites on the internet.

However, due to the site allegedly being used by numerous users to share copyrighted files, the company has been the target of several controversies, and prompting the FBI charges.

Dotcom is set to appear in court tomorrow.