The
most important part of your computer is the
data that is stored on it. Sadly, most people don't give their data
much thought until it is too late.
Hardware
can be replaced and software can be reinstalled, but
priceless data that is lost is gone forever. Fortunately, there are
steps you can take to save your data. If you do not have your data
backed up, you should start today with these four simple steps.
Step
1: Organize your data By default, most programs save all your
data in your My Documents folder. However, there are some that save
data to other folders. You need to know where the programs are putting
the information or change where that information is stored.
Step
2: Plan for back up Once you have everything organized,
institute a back up plan. There are many different media types that
store data, such as 3 1/2 floppy disks, USB thumb drives, CD-ROM,
CD-RW, DVD-R/RW, 2nd internal hard drives, external hard drives, tape
drives, 2nd computers, network drives, and online backups. Choose the
storage method that is most affordable and convenient for you.
Step
3: Choose automatic or manual back up Make your plan as simple
as possible; the harder you make it, the less likely you'll follow
through. Back ups can be made automatically or manually. Automatic back
ups can be made through Windows or third party programs. This is the
easiest method. Manual back ups are made by simply making copies of
your data. This method works best when only small amounts of data are
present.
Step
4: Test your back up You need to check your back ups
occasionally to make sure that the files are viable and that the
original file can be restored from the backup file.
It is very
important that you back up your data. If you would like
any help instituting a back up plan, please feel free to contact me. I
can assist you in developing a plan that is affordable and practical
for your lifestyle.