How can a computer ensure the safety of data stored in a computer system?

Answer 1

The biggest thing is backups. Using a RAID 1 configuration helps in cases of hardware failure, since if one hard drive fails, you have the other one and can rebuild the set from it with very little downtime. However, unlike backups, RAID 1 (another other RAID configurations) does not protect against data corruption from viruses and deliberate sabotage. Nor does RAID 1 help you if the computer is physically stolen. You can replace the computer, but you cannot replace what is on it as easily a lot of times.

There also needs to be malware solutions. Antivirus utilities are one such help. Safe computing policies and proper internet settings also help.

Another point is security practices and solutions. Not only do you need protection from data corruption, but also against how the data is used. You don't need your emails getting leaked to your competitors or some group who wants to put you out of business. Nor do you want your computers and network being misused for criminal activities. So you must use the right security and firewall settings, and also secure your networks and relays from being used by those who have no business using them. If espionage is expected, then you have to screen and monitor your employees, and not provide any means for spying (for example, disable external media like USB drives). Sometimes setting the computer to only read outside media is good enough, then nobody can copy it out. But then you run into the possibility of malicious software getting installed, perhaps snooping software, enabling a bad employee to access the company's data from elsewhere.

Answer 2

Updated security

Correct backup procedures

Answer 3

Use secure passwords wherever possible - and make regular back-ups that are stored separately to the computer

Answer 4

You can't, back-up your system.