Data Backup
DATA BACKUP
 
   

You should always regularly back up any important files (documents, photos, music etc) that you wouldn’t want to lose, in case you experience a virus or system failure

The best ways for doing this are summarized below and detailed instructions for all methods mentioned can be found in my "Data Backup" Quick Reference Guide here

 
   
 
  CD/DVD

CD/DVD

Using the CD/DVD writing software supplied with your computer you can back up any files you wish to blank CD's or DVD's

The main problem with this method is that you have to do it manually so can easily be forgotten or not done. Also the media is then normally stored near the computer so could be lost in case of fire/theft and finally the media does not last forever and could be unreadable in years to come when you need to access it

 
   
 
  USB Memory Stick / External Hard Disk

USB Memory Stick / External Hard Drive

Files can be copied manually across to an external hard drive or USB memory stick by means of copy/paste or drag/drop

Or you can automate the backup by using software such as Windows Backup or Genie Backup (link below) which will automatically back up all your data and emails for you

The possible issues with this method are that USB memory sticks can easily be lost or wiped, and external hard disks can suffer the same failure as the hard disk in your PC resulting in corruption or loss of your data. Also the drive is normally stored with your computer so could be lost in case of fire/theft

 
   
 
 
   
 
  Online Backup

Online Backup

Benefits of online backup over the above solutions is that you do not have to remember to do anything, all files you create or modify are backed up automatically at all times

With my recommended solution Carbonite Online Backup all your files are securely encrypted and backed up to servers in an off-site data center, so you are fully protected from loss of data caused by virus, hard drive failure, fire or theft. And if the worst did happen all your files can easily be restored to a new computer or hard drive

Other benefits are that your backed up files can be accessed from any other computer or even your iPhone/Blackberry, so wherever you are in the world if you need to access an important file you can

As an authorized reseller I can supply subscriptions to Carbonite at a very competitive price and it is very simple to install meaning your data can be fully protected in no time at all

1 year subscription £40
2 year subscription £70
3 year subscription £95

More information on Carbonite and the service they offer can be found here

Please email me if you wish to place an order