What Happens if I Delete Files from my FTP Service Provider?

User error is a tricky thing when it comes to data security. Regardless of how long you've spent behind a computer keyboard in your lifetime or how many advanced training classes you've had, one slip of your attention is all it will take to cause a virtual disaster in an instant.

The problem is compounded in the case of something like a file hosting provider that your business relies on, as you now have suddenly an entire workforce of people who may accidentally delete a file. If you do find yourself in this type of situation, it's important to know what happens next.

SFTP with Sharetru

Many FTP service providers like Sharetru understand that the occasional bout with user error is a fact of life. This is a large part of the reason why backup and disaster recovery are two options built into the service from the moment that you start using it.

In the specific case of Sharetru, a daily incremental backup is performed from the moment that you make the transition to the service. This means that after an initial backup of all files has been completed, every file that has had a physical change will be backed up on a daily basis thereafter. All backups are encrypted both while they're being transferred to the server and while they're at rest, making sure that you don't have to worry about something like a data breach on top of accidental deletion.

Because of this, if you should ever accidentally delete files from your FTP service provider like Sharetru, all you would have to do is restore that file from the backup and pick up right where you left off. With disaster recovery also built in, Sharetru could also fully recover from a large, facility-level disaster and have fully restored their operations (and your data) within 24 hours.

Other Providers

Other FTP service providers lack these types of provisions, which is why it is always important to do your research before you decide to go with any one particular FTP hosting company. Some FTP service providers store backups locally, for example, leaving you without a disaster recovery option.

Some providers do not perform daily backups at all or instead perform backups only weekly or even monthly. While you might still be able to restore a deleted file, if it's one that has been worked on for a long time you could lose a huge amount of progress even though you were technically able to recover the file.

Ensure your team knows what to do by creating a data security and IT compliance policy. Download this free template to get started.