Protecting your data from disasters and everyday mishaps is a top priority for many people. The ensuing panic can often ruin an otherwise well-intended backup strategy.
By knowing what to do and what not to do, you can get back up with your data in a much more productive manner.
10 Easy Backup Tips for your Computer
1. Decide what needs backing up
Saving a set of files may require backing up your entire computer system. Depending on how much data you want to save, you may also have to back up your hard drive, which takes the longest.
2. Set a schedule
Set a schedule for data backups to help keep you on track. Pick a specific day for your backup and stick to it. In addition to having a backup plan, be sure that you have enough time to get the backup done.
3. The 3-2-1 backup rule
Keep the backup process simple so you can do it just once a day or once a week. Divide your data into three equal sections: 2 similar areas designate what files, folders, and drives to back up at the beginning, middle, and end of each day. You should also set aside 1 hour or more between each backup, allowing you to complete it before the date and time you’ve designated.
4. Do more than rely on the cloud
Use your backup solution to ensure that your data is well-protected. You may also want a local drive backup system if you think saving essential files in the past is possible.
5. Automate
If the backup system is set up correctly, running backups at pre-determined times can be straightforward. It will ensure that your data is backed up in all areas and that you won’t have to remember when you should be doing the process.
6. Choose the right external drive
There are many different types of hard drives, including the traditional 3.5″ and 5.25″ forms, and can be moved around, put into a portable case, or plugged into a computer to use as an external drive. To prevent data loss, you should upgrade your external hard drive to one with a higher storage capacity, such as 8GB or 16GB.
7. Consider multiple external drives
If you use an external hard drive, you should always keep at least two copies of your file. You can also have one copy on a desktop computer and another on a laptop. You can create one or more backups on flash drives, CDs, or DVDs.
8. Keep one copy offsite, in a safe place
Just as you should have multiple copies of your important data, you should also have multiple locations where those copies are stored. A safe deposit box or fireproof box is an ideal place to keep one of the backup copies.
9. Have a backup buddy
Consider having a backup buddy to help you complete the data backup process.
10. Share your backup knowledge with others
If you share your knowledge with others, you can help them avoid the same pitfalls and mistakes hindering a data backup plan.
Data is a precious asset for any company. However, when you don’t back it up effectively, the value of that data is reduced to zero. Following the data backup tips discussed above, you can create an effective data backup plan that protects your business from disasters.