Backups
It's 2:30 AM, you are in the middle of a huge english paper and all of the sudden your computer starts making funny noises. Your computer restarts itself and just sits there like nothing is even installed on it - just a blinking white cursor on a black screen. Eventually, you will face a data disaster. Something terrible will happen to your computer - whether due to your intentional mistake or forces of nature. Unless all of your files and your time are expendable, you should be making backup copies on a regular basis.
What Files Should I Back Up?
Many times you aren't sure whether or not you should save a back up copy of a file or not. Don't try to backup applications like Microsoft Office or games you may have installed. These applications can be restored from the original discs you purchased. Also, your operating system and software provided by your computer manufacturer, can usually be restored from "System Restore" discs that came with the computer. In general, you'll want to focus on personal files like school assignments, emails, your address book, music, photos, and other important data files.
Files to Back Up
- School Assignments (english papers, programming projects, lab reports, etc.)
- Email - sent email or messages you may have stored directly on your computer
- Address Book - copies of contact information for individual you are in constant communication with
- Music Files - MP3 files you may have purchased online or ripped from a CD you own
- Pictures - images you might have downloaded from your digital camera or scanned into your computer
- Web Browser bookmarks/favorites
Other Useful Information
- Email Configuration/Settings/Preferences
- Other Operating System Preferences
How Do I Back Up My Data?
One of the easiest ways to back up your data is to simply copy and paste the files and/or folders into another location, such as an external hard drive. Another option is to burn copies of these folders/files to DVD/CD's. There are also options for Internet-based file storage services. To find what is right for you, compare the cost of the option to its convenience. An external hard drive is very convenient, however it requires an initial investment. DVD/CD's are inexpensive, however, to burn data to a disc takes longer than to write to an external hard drive (in most cases).
No matter what method you choose - the most important thing is to back up your computer on a regular basis. If you use your computer on a consistent, daily basis you may want to consider weekly, if not daily, back ups. Also, make sure that your latest back up is in place before deleting or destroying a previous back up. With the inexpensive nature of DVD/CD's, many individuals make two copies of their back up to store in different locations; this helps to reduce the risk of physical loss or damage of a back up. It is always a good idea to label any and all discs with contents and date. This will help you ensure you restore the most up-to-date material.
