4 Easy Ways On How to Backup Files On Your Computer

Data loss is a big problem for anyone who uses a computer to work. Fires happen, computers crash (with alarming frequency), and virus programmers have become more advanced than ever before.  Each of these situations presents its own uniques threat, but there is one way to deal with the most devastating outcome- file backup.Some operating systems come with a backup utility that allows you to create backup copies of your entire hard drive (or folders that you select) automatically.  The two most popular operating systems, Windows Vista and Mac OS X both come with backup utilities.  After a certain point, though, backing up files on the same computer that has the potential for crash can end up devastating your system.Backing up files on CD or DVD is a viable option for anyone who has that capability and backs up once in a while.  The one major advantage to this method is that the CD or DVD is an external storage media, and it can be kept safe outside of the computer, or even the room the computer is in.  Many large companies do routine backups of important data and keep those disks in a fire-proof safe off site.  This can still be a time consuming method, and each disk can only hold a fraction of the entire contents of a hard drive.External hard drives offer the easiest and most reliable method of local backup storage, as they are available in very large capacities, connect easily, and can be physically isolated from the computer at any time.  Unless you keep your external hard drive locked up in a safe as well, it too can be destroyed by fire, flood, or storm should a disaster strike.  They are also prone to the same failure problems that plague internal drives.  A solution for how to backup files is growing in popularity among home users as well as office IT managers and that solution is online backup.  This relatively new method of file backup is done online with a company that is physically miles away, yet the data is always available at the touch of a few keystrokes.  For a nominal fee, there are several companies that will store your data in heavily protected servers, often automatically as well.Choosing a backup method is simply a matter of determining how much capacity and security you need.  Most people find that external hard drives and online services offer the best protection for the cost.  If you are looking for the best online storage solution, we recommend Carbonite or Mozy. Visit us to see a head-to-head comparison of Carbonite vs Mozy and decide for yourself which option is best for you.