05/31

We have all lost data files before – on our computers, our phones, even our game consoles. Whether the information was corrupted by malware, lost during an unexpected shutdown, or simply accidentally deleted, we all know the frustration and stress that comes of such an inconvenience. This is why savvy electronics users make sure to back up their important documents, files, and progress saves from time to time.

Data backup means storing copies of your original files in a separate location so that your work won’t be lost entirely if the unexpected happens. Generally speaking there are two kinds of data back-up: physical, and online.

Physical data back-up is the more traditional kind, and involves the copying of files onto any form of external storage including discs, flash drives, and external hard drives. Each of these provides varying amounts of storage at varying prices. From least to most – discs provide approximately 650MB of space, flash drives between 2 and 16GB, and hard drives up to 2TB. Which device is right for you will depend on how much data you wish to back up, and how much money you are looking to spend.

Online back-up is a newer and potentially more convenient option and involves the use of online services that store copies of your data for you. These services usually require a monthly or yearly fee, but provide conveniences such as automatic back-ups that occur at the times of your choosing. With this option your backup files will always have the most up-to-date versions of your work so that no progress is lost if something happens to the originals.

Knowing what data to back up is also important. If you are paying for an online service, or have paid good money for a form of physical storage, you don’t want to waste the space. Computer programs tend to have install discs, meaning that they can be restored if your computer has any issues. Focus on important financial records and project documents, pictures and videos that have been deleted off of the original recorder, and even music that you may not be able to get back.
Phone data can often be backed up onto a computer or physical storage device, and game consoles often have online data storage options, or at least a USB slot through which you can back up your game saves onto flash drives in case of corruption or system malfunction.

Don’t get caught off-guard; many people think “I’ll get around to it”, until it’s too late and a virus wipes their computer clean, and all their important files with it. Pick up a storage device today, or start researching what sort of online service would best be suited to your needs. The unexpected is always lurking just around the corner.

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