Human error: Why We Backup

Human error has replaced hardware failures as the primary driver of data loss and restore operations in modern IT environments. This episode explores real-world examples of how both end users and administrators create the need for backup and recovery operations through accidental deletions, configuration mistakes, and poor processes. W. Curtis Preston shares war stories from his decades in the industry, including incidents involving accidental directory deletions, source code stored in temporary folders, and tape library disasters. The discussion covers how technology improvements like RAID and solid-state drives have made hardware more reliable, shifting the focus to human-related incidents. The hosts also examine insider threats and the importance of implementing proper controls around privileged access. Learn why understanding human error patterns is critical for designing effective backup and recovery strategies that account for the reality of how data actually gets lost.