Backing up your data is like insurance. We all know we need it, but many of us choose to roll the dice and figure “I’ll save some money and besides it’s not like the computer will get struck by lightning.”

Lightning storms and power surges are just one scenario that could result in loss of data but there are many less spectacular ways to find yourself suddenly in need of backed up data. As operating systems get corrupted, hard drives wear themselves out over time, or even hardware problems not related to your hard drive, your computer can suddenly become unusable. If a laptop gets dropped and the hard drive is damaged, you may have to enlist the help of a pricey data recovery outfit.

Peace of mind is worth a lot, and there’s no better feeling than looking at a computer destroyed by a flood and knowing it is not the end of the world. Let’s look at 3 ways to back up data. 

1. Periodically burn CDs or DVDs: 700mb or 4gb respectively, and store them somewhere away from the computer or preferably off site. This method costs the price of your CD or DVD media.
2. Transfer to an external hard drive: Up to 500gb is now affordable. You can set up scheduled tasks to transfer specific areas or files to that drive. Once again, on site storage is convenient and fast but does not protect against fire or flood to the location. This method costs the price of a hard drive and can last until you fill it up.
3. Remote Online Back up: Online back up services encrypt your data and store it on a remote server and let you get your data back up via email, download or other methods. If you only need 2-20gb to cover your pictures, documents, music or business databases then online back up is perfect. The first upload will be slow because you’re pushing gigabytes across your Internet line, but additional scheduled backups can be set to only upload changes or new files.

Personally I use a combination of external hard drive and online back ups. I back up music and pictures to a 250gb hard drive and my documents get uploaded once a week to an online backup service. Some even offer a ‘residential’ service for free, giving you access to 1 or 2 gb and their online knowledge base for troubleshooting. For business purposes it’s usually worth budgeting in enough storage to handle your most important data. You’ll also get free technical support.

Digerati Computer Services is eager to consult with you to find the best backup system for your home or business.