Typically when I think about backups I think about preserving critical data that a small business can't do without, data that if lost would likely result in bankruptcy or even the closing of the business.
But consumers need backups too. There is little more heart-breaking than to visit a client whose hard drive crashed only to find out those sentimental, irreplaceable pictures and videos were never backed up.
To prevent that catastrophe, following are the most common ways to back up your pictures, music and files:
External hard drive
In the long run, the least expensive route. Depending on the size of your files, you would either use a usb thumb drive, also known as a flash drive, or a much larger external hard drive that can go into the terrabytes of storage space. For most people, a 500GB external hard drive will suffice but you'll want to check the size of your files before deciding.
One caveat -- I've seen people store their files only on the external hard drive and delete them from their computer. You don't want to do this because the external hard drive, like your internal hard drive, can go bad, meaning you'd lose all your files if they were only on the external drive. So leave those files on your computer or back them up to a second external hard drive. Also, invest in a fireproof safe to store the external drive.
Online
Carbonite is the most famous consumer online backup service due to its heavy marketing presence. The needs to be reinstalled from time to time but it is functional and will save you in the event of a catastrophe. Other good options in this category include iDrive, CrashPlan and SOS. Apple's iCloud and Microsoft's OneDrive can also be used as backups though their main function is to provide anywhere access to files.
The difference between an online backup and external hard drive is that the online backup automatically backs up your files to a data center over the Internet at scheduled times. It will be less expensive in the short run usually but more expensive in the long run. It does get the files out of the house (in the event of fire or water damage) and runs without your input except for the occasional software reinstall or the need to restore files.
One caveat -- if you need to restore files, and you have hundreds of gigabytes or even terrabytes, it could take a very long time to download those files from your backup service. If you have that kind of data volume, you might want to consider external hard drives, which will restore your files more quickly.
What if You Haven't Backed Up?
Now, let's assume you've lost your files and haven't backed up. What can you do? Your only recourse at that point would be to use a very expensive data recovery service (we're talking thousands) or contact family and friends you might have shared the files with via email or social media.
But rather than go through that, just pick a backup option and stick with it. You can call me at 537-4198 for help with picking out a backup service if needed.
