How to Keep Data Backups Safe

August 25, 2009 Labels: ,

While you should backup your data on a regular basis, it is also important to make sure your data backups are safe.


  1. Always make multiple copies of your backups. When backing up your data, never make just one copy, always make at least two copies. This will help prevent losing any data if your backup copy becomes corrupted. Optical discs, such as DVD's are notorious for becoming unreadable after a specific period of time.
  2. Store backup copies offsite. While external hard drives are great for backing up your data, it is also important to copy your data to removable media. This allows you to then move your data to another location for safe-keeping. USB flash drives, DVD's and online storage are perfect to keep your backed up data safe.
  3. Use high-quality media. This point is very important for those that use DVD's for saving their data. Not all DVD's are created equally, and those cheap, bargain DVD's won't last very long. I recommend you look at high-quality DVD's from Taiyo Yuden, Verbatim or Sony if you would like to ensure you data will be available when you need it.
  4. Store your media properly. Ensure that the location you store the media containing your backups is cool and dark (away from sunlight). High-humidity can wreak havoc on certain media, like hard drives, since water and electronics don't mix. Also, if you do use an external hard drive, make sure it is on a sturdy surface which doesn't shake, or you could cause hardware damage. Hard drives are high-precision instruments and any amount of shaking could cause damage.

By following the above points, you can ensure you backups will remain safe and secure, and you will be able to restore any data you may need.

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