Although the problem occurred in the US, the impact was felt worldwide as businesses could not send or receive emails, make telephone calls or send important electronic data.

Research In Motion (RIM), the maker of BlackBerry, said it was looking to improve its testing and recovery procedures to ensure such problems would not happen again.

The blackout lasted 12 hours and the disruption has brought into question whether the network is strong enough to support the dramatic rise in BlackBerry users over the past few years. The meltdown reinforced just how much business is now dependent upon the device and was blamed on an insufficiently tested software upgrade.

Small businesses in the UK and around the world are particularly badly hit when computers and electronic equipment let them down. In light of the events of this month, SMEs are being urged to learn from the incident and ensure they have a business continuity plan in place to protect themselves against loss of communications in case of similar problems occurring in this country.

Professional Indemity Insurance (PII) is a multi-faceted coverage which also includes the loss of client data and documents - whether damaged, lost or stolen. Lawyers, accountants and financial advisers must have PII, but increasingly other professionals providing advice such as architects, designers, and consultants recognise the importance of protecting their reputation. It also highlights the old adage that every business big or small needs to prepare itself for every eventuality. Purchasing all your insurance in one hit is a sensible approach.

Any damages or instances of business interruption can cripple even the most efficient and lucrative business. Get cover for your legal liabilities, your earnings business premises and property, plant and materials. And that most certainly includes electronic equipment. The implications of losing electronic data are immense. Whilst not a compulsory insurance your customers will expect you to have liability insurance cover. As an astute business person you will know only too well the importance of protecting your business against legal liabilities. Public and Product Liability insurance includes cover for solicitors fees, all costs, litigation expenses, damages and claimants costs which you could be legally liable for, should the worst happen.