Computer Backup Plan

Did you just hear your computer crash? What a heart stopping sound! But, you have a backup, so no worries, right? Maybe not.

There are many free or uncostly ways to back up data, but it is your responsibility to set up the process properly. I just learned that part the hard way. Either you use a flash drive, external hard drive, or a remote backup service, how do you know if everything is genuinely being backed up? Remember, you are backing up data files only--not your software programs. Here are ten tips to help you construct your computer backup plan

Backup Strategy

1.Make a list of the software programs you use regularly, and take off programs and files on your computer that you don't. Getting rid of the excess makes your operating ideas run more efficiently.

2.Review the types of files you maintain. Pictures, scans, pdf documents, and graphics take a lot of storage space, so conclude what you genuinely need to keep. Reconsider captivating personal photos, music, etc., to a flash drive or some other storage site--away from your business data.

3.Understand how your data files are organized. I suggest that you print your file hierarchy to assure you set up your backup correctly.

4.Determine how much data storage you need. If you're using an onsite backup like an external hard drive, you need to know it has sufficient space to handle your current data, as well as your anticipated growth. With a remote backup system, you pay for storage in increments of space, and it's easy to buy more when you need it. Plan wisely and don't underestimate your needs.

5.Locate your traditional software Cd's. Store them in a safe place, like a safe deposit box. Make sure you have the spoton data for your software programs so you can reinstall them in case of a computer disaster. You will need pass keys, registration information, instructions, etc. You will also need to reinstall hardware, like printers, scanners, keyboards, etc. You can do that from your traditional Cd's or you can download the drivers to get going again.

6.If you use a remote backup service, read the instructions very closely. Mozy says it scans your hard drive and locates the data to be backed up. That's great! You're done, right? I learned that it identifies most files that citizen want backed up. If you have specialized programs, those data files would be overlooked. You have to know what files need to be backed up (see #2).

7.When you have completed the initial replacement of data, verify that it was done correctly. Remote services don't know if they received everything you wanted them to get. They can confirm what they received, not if it's complete.

8.Schedule automated backups. Set a time when the computer is idle so it won't interfere with your productivity. Any new files and data that has changed since the former backup will be updated.

9.Is one back up enough? Do you need to have an onsite as well as a remote backup? If losing your data will force your business to close, why not? Data storage devices are cheap, but recovering lost data is high-priced and time consuming.

10.Hire an It advisor to help. Even the smallest businesses want assistance to harness the power of technology. Just like your attorney and accountant, you need a computer expert on your team, too. And the worst time to go seeing for one is after disaster strikes!

Computer Backup Plan