“Backing up” your personal computer is a way to ensure that your important files are saved in the event of a computer crash, virus or other technological disasters. The term refers to the process of creating copies of computer data in order to secure your important information from complete deletion. This is essential for small businesses who use personal computers (PCs), students with irreplaceable files and data or anyone with significant personal content. There are a variety of different methods used to back up files on your personal computer, however some of these methods are more practical than others, depending on your individual needs. Before you decide which method to choose, consider;
- the amount of storage you will realistically need
- the sensitivity of your content and the level of privacy you require
- the amount you are willing to spend
Once your individual needs are established, you can efficiently choose the backup program best suited for you.
Cloud Storage Services
Cloud storage refers to a digital information storage server that exists completely online and is therefore accessible anywhere with an internet connection. This option is well-suited to those who travel or have an excess of files and information but cannot continuously transport an external hard drive. These types of services are ubiquitous on the web, so there are dozens of options when it comes to choosing which one to purchase. Additionally, many of them are equipped with easily accessible customer support as well as free apps to ease installation and usage. There are also completely free options and methods that are available however their legitimacy is questionable and their installation sometimes requires a tech-savvy hand.
MyPcBackup is one of these services that allows you to store your important files in cloud storage. While it boasts an unlimited amount of storage space for its users, the service actually sets a limit at 500 gigabytes, less than most external hard drives, but allows for customers to upgrade at a fee. The basic package sits at around 50$ for the year, although many customers find that the storage limitation of that package requires purchasing of additional storage space and look into other options.
The highest rated PC backup service is Carbonite because of its truly unlimited storage space for personal computers at nearly the same fee as MyPcBackup and it also includes the option for a free trial. Top-rated just behind Carbonite are services like IDrive, CrashPlan, and Dropbox, all of which offer services similar to Carbonite but with minute differences. Dropbox allows the user to upload data through their mobile phone but offers less in security options. SOS Online Backup is also top-rated because of its unlimited storage but also because of its customer service support which is available through phone, e-mail or a live chat service. SOS will not allow storage from more than one computer per account though, so those with multiple PCs would need multiple accounts. In these cases, IDrive or CrashPlan might be a better fit.
Regardless of which option you chose to backup your PC, those well-versed in computer technology advise to have three copies of your important data, including the original and two copies. This reduces the possibility of losing your computer files in the event that both your original and copied files are deleted or otherwise removed. Of course, the more copies you have, the less likely it will be for your files to be lost but three copies is the general rule.