By Oliver J Carlin
Statistics show that 42 percent of computer users lose irreplaceable files every year. Some very simple things that the average user can do to protect themselves from becoming a statistic are:
Simple, Built-in Backup Method...
In Windows 7 and Vista:
- Go to -> Start -> Control Panel -> Backup and Restore -> Back up files -> and then follow-on on-screen prompts. It is recommended that you choose to back up to an external hard drive. If you don't have an external hard drive then use a DVD and store it in a safe place when done.
In Windows XP:
- Go to -> Start -> All Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> Backup -> and then follow the on-screen prompts and same guidelines as Windows 7 and Vista.
When doing these steps there is also an option to set up a recurring schedule. This is a good option to set up to run at least weekly so that any new information will get protected as well.
If you follow these steps you have taken a big step towards protecting your priceless computer files.
--Warning-- The whole reason you are backing up your computer files is because the hard drive might crash or the operating system you are using might become corrupt. If you backup to an external hard drive you are at the same risk of that hard drive crashing as well. DVDs are the safest option because statistics show that they will last about 20 to 25 years depending on use.
Simple Hard Drive Precautions That Will Help...
One of the reasons a hard drive will fail is because of a voltage spike from your electric wall outlet. In order to help prevent this from not only frying your hard drive, but also your power supply, motherboard and other expensive computer parts, you definitely want to plug all your electronic devices into a surge protector. Surge protectors range in price from around 10 to 200 dollars. Just remember that you get what you pay for. The more expensive ones can withstand a lot larger voltage spike than the less expensive ones. But the cheapest one is still better than nothing at all.
Need Something More?
If you are looking for a more robust solution than you are most likely going to be interested in the online data backup solution. There are various competitors out there that range in different prices. I would recommend not spending more than 20 dollars a month. Be sure to read the fine print on what the company is advertising as well. They may be advertising 15 dollars a month but the fine print says that after 2 months it will go up to 30 dollars a month.
