Data Backup Options

Keeping copies of your files locally on CD, tape or storage devices has been the norm for decades. Using this approach you can pick and choose which files to backup and simply burn a CD, copy them to a drive or use synchronization software to clone data between multiple devices all in an effort to keep multiple copies of critical data. Backups can be done as often as necessary or as part of scheduled computer repair and maintenance activities.

On the plus side
- Relatively cheap to setup and make multiple copies (e.g. CDs to share with family).
- With USB 2.0 and new CD burners it is possible to rapidly make backups.
On the negative side
- Responsibility is on the owner to securely store the backup data away from the original data.
- Automation is not normally included (so you have to remember to make a backup copy).

Keeping copies of your files with online services is only a recent development, encouraged by faster broadband speeds which enabled users to upload large volumes of data. There are free approaches to doing this (even storing backups in Gmail messages) but the more common approach is to use a paid online web service and proprietary software to automate the uploading/backup of data over a web connection.

On the plus side
- Software automation manages the process (so no danger of forgetting to do a data backup).
- You can get at your data from anywhere on the web.
On the negative side
- Usually involves service costs for data storage.
- Danger of transmitted data being hacked/stolen.