Computer Flu - Backup Your Data

Imagine you've just lost all your files

Scary isn't it!

I know from my own experience, making backups is a pain. I try to think along the lines of... How long would it take to get this stuff back if I lost the information. That tends to do the trick to make me 'do a backup'.

How Can I Backup My Information ?

If you are using Windows XP Professional (as opposed to the HOME edition), then there is a Backup utility built in. If you are using Windows XP Home Edition, then you can install Windows Backup from your original Windows CD

Instructions on how to install and use MS backup

Windows Vista and Windows 7 users have a 'backup' feature built into windows already.

Where should I backup my data ?

Probably the safest and most cost effective is to copy your information to a blank CD-R. Most modern computers have a CD Writer built in. The blank CDs can be bought for a few pence. If you have a DVD Writer, then that's even better, as you can fit a lot more data on a blank DVD.

Another alternative is to backup your files to another hard drive. Whether this is installed inside your computer, or attached externally. The chances of both of your hard drives failing at the same time is extremely remote.

If you only need to back up a few documents, then a floppy disk is OK, but you should really treat yourself, to a USB Flash Keyring (Thumbdrive). These are reusable, can hold lots more data than a floppy disk, and are a lot more reliable.

Something else to think about is on-line backup. This is where you files are transferred over your broadband connection for safe keeping on another computer.

Whatever method you choose, you need to have some kind of system. e.g. at the beginning of each month, or every Friday

Per Document Incremental Backup

This little trick is the simplest of all. Imagine you are working on a really important document/file. So far you've spent 4 hours working on it. You've saved it already. But when you go to save it again, disaster strikes! - your power fails (or the computer locks up) while saving. The file is corrupted. You've just lost all your hard work.

The trick is to save the document with a new filename everytime you do major changes.

1st saved as MyImportantDocument-v01
2nd saved as MyImportantDocument-v02
3rd saved as MyImportantDocument-v03

This way, if disaster strikes, you will only lose your last set of changes, and not the whole document.

Remember - It's better to be safe than sorry.

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