Services

Data Security 2

How do I back up?

We're nearly there - just a few more questions to think about...

Do you need your data within hours? Days? Will a week do? Or does it have to be NOW?
Will you buy a new PC and put our data onto that, or buy a replacement hard disk and reinstall Windows?
Do you need to be able to revert to a backup from six weeks ago? Or six months? Longer?
Do you want to be able to keep data synchronised between two or more PCs?
Do you want to back up manually, or have it automated so you can 'set it and forget it'?

Where do I back up to?

Plenty of choice here. You can back up to CD, DVD, memory stick, external hard drive, another computer, a home server. There are also a number of online services where you can back up your data to their secure online services.

PROTECTING YOUR DATA

Backup your data regularly
Password-protect your backups
TEST your backups
Store your backups AWAY from your PC
Have an up to date anti-virus solution in place
Run regular FULL anti-virus scans of your system
Ideally, re-partition your hard disk so that data is stored in a separate area to your Windows installation
Keep the installation disks that came with your PC in a safe place. Make backup copies just in case one set gets damaged
Make a careful note of any serial numbers, license codes or products keys for your software
If your system starts to hang or crash often, or you get the 'Blue Screen of Death' regularly make sure you have a data backup
If your system fails to start DO NOT attempt a re-install of Windows unless you are confident that you have a RELIABLE backup of your data
Doing so could overwrite your data on the hard drive rendering it irrecoverable