External Storage Options for Backing Up Your Computer

Even though backing up files has been emphasized for years as a security measure to prevent data loss, too many people are still learning through bitter experience that backups are essential. This may be due, in part, to confusion over the many options available for external storage of backup files.

As internal hard drives have increased in size, the media required to back up essential files has also changed. At one time, it was possible to back up all necessary files on a series of floppy disks. Today, the time and number of disks required for such a procedure would be prohibitive. Even Iomega Zip disks, which hold many times the data of a floppy, are no longer large enough for the number of files most users need to back up.

There are basically three choices for external storage of backup files. Removable media such as CD or DVD-ROM, a separate external hard drive, or a remote backup service accessible through the internet.

Using CD or DVD-ROMs is the least expensive option. Many software manufacturers have backup software available that will create archives which can then be written to a CD or DVD. However, even though some DVD-ROMs can hold more than 8 gigabytes of data, because hard drives continue to grow even this option may require multiple disks and more time than many users have. This may lead those selecting this option to perform backups less frequently than they should.

More and more users are opting for external hard drives to store their backup files. Software can be configured to perform automatic backups and send the data directly to the external hard drive with no input required from the user. However, the distinct disadvantage of this system is that the data cannot be stored offsite, as the external hard drive must have a persistent connection to the computer being backed up.

A third option is emerging in the form of remote backup services. These are websites that allow users to upload data files and retrieve them later in case they need to restore the files. This allows offsite storage of backup files, however, this system requires a user to have internet access which might not be available in certain types of emergencies. Additionally, users should not rely exclusively on remote backup services to preserve their data as companies do go out of business, particularly web-based companies.

Kadence Buchanan writes articles on many topics including
Computers, Aging, and
Education.

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