How to Choose Backup Programs and Devices

Backing up the data stored in your computer is critically important to preserving your personal and business records. However, in order to choose backup programs and devices you need to understand what is appropriate for your backup needs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Catalog of backup products

1. Determine the amount of data that you need to backup. Businesses will need to examine how many computers they need to backup as well as the types and sizes of files that will need to be backed up on each computer.
2. Determine how often you will need to backup your data. For personal computer systems a monthly backup will usually be enough. For small businesses a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly backup is sufficient. However, for larger companies a daily backup may be needed.
3. Review the backup programs that you can choose from. Some of your options include: Backup Pro Computer, Symantec Backup Exec 11D for Windows, Norton Ghost and Backup My PC.
4. Review the available backup devices. Some of your options include DVD-R drives, CD-R drive, USB backup systems, external hard drives and tape drives. Examine the storage capacity for each device and compare that to your backup needs. Also determine if the device is a contemporary device or if its technology is on the verge of being phased out.
5. Establish a budget for your backup purchases. Keep in mind that you will not only need to buy the software and/or device, but that you will also need to buy discs and tapes to use with the backup devices and programs.
6. Compare and contrast your options. Look for a backup product that will be able to handle your backup needs and that will also fit within your budget.

Tips & Warnings

• For personal backups and backups for small businesses you probably can simply use the CD-R or DVD-R drive that came with your system as the backup devise. Windows also comes with a backup program that can be found under Programs-Accessories-System Tools. This program will allow you to create a backup file on your hard drive. You can also use this program to restore your computer to a previous restore point.

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