How to Backup Your Data? 7 Effective Ways

Last Updated Date: 4, Dec 2023

At some point in our lives, we’ve all lost some sort of file or photo. Sometimes if we’re lucky we can track down and restore these files, but that isn’t always the case. Some data are just gone and not retrievable, which explains why having fail-proof backups of your data is so important. You never know when an accident can happen. 

There are just too many risks to not having backups of your important files. 

Your laptop or computer is never 100% safe with you, because data loss can happen in so many different ways. Some examples are virus attacks, physical damage, and even human errors. Any of the above could cause you to lose all your important data.

We’re going to share with you 7 ways to back up your files so you can always have a safety net to fall back into if anything ever happens.

Cloud Backups 

Having a cloud service is convenient and easy to use. Given that there are many cloud services out there, it won’t be too hard to look for one that suits your needs. These services often have automated backup preferences, which makes backing up a breeze for anyone. 

Services such as Google Photos, Dropbox, Microsoft Onedrive have reliable encryption services that are free from third parties getting to your data. Another bonus about cloud services is that it’s affordable. It offers different plans for different use, so even with upgrades to a larger storage space, it is still affordable. With the simple designs of these cloud services, managing your backups is easy, even for beginners. 

External Hard Drives

While being portable, external hard drives are a good option too. Unlike cloud services, hard drives offer easy access even when you’re disconnected from the internet. An upside to using hard drives is that you get to choose what you want to back up instead of having to back up everything. Simply connect your hard drive to your computer, manually select the files and photos you need, and copy them onto the hard drive. Something to note is that using USB 3.0 hard drives will decrease the wait time and increase the speed of transferring files.

Though your data are conveniently ready at hand, physical loss or damage to your hard drive could still cause you to lose most or all of your data. To prevent data loss from mild damage, partition your hard drive once you get your hand on a new drive. If you partition your drive when it has files on it, you’re also at risk of losing your data. So be sure that the drive is empty before partitioning the entire hard drive. Besides, to prevent misplacing or damaging the hard drive, keep your drive in a dry and safe place. 

USB Flash Drives 

Another good option for short-term backup is a USB flash drive. They are super convenient to travel with, and accidentally dropping it on the ground won’t break as easily as a hard drive would. Compatible with both Windows and Mac systems, thumb drives make a good option to use for work. Having backups of your important work files on your drive just in case they’re ever lost on your work computer. Cheaper prices for more cost-effective use. 

Despite the large storage and ideal portable size of the USB thumb drive, it could get misplaced easily. The lack of defense against malware attacks, USB thumb drives are not a reliable source for backups in the long run.

Hard Copies 

The good old fashion way is always the way to go. By creating hard copies of your files, you’re not at risk of malware attacks or information theft. All you need is a color printer, sorting folders, and a good filing cabinet, and you’re all set on filing your files away for a rainy day. 

A downside to having hard copies is that it could get messy if you’re not an organizational guru because misplacing your backup files might cause more trouble than good. Furthermore, removing older files or files you don’t need could be a hassle because if the files consist of confidential information then you would need to securely destroy them; meaning, investing in a paper shredder.

CD/DVD

CD and DVD backups are still a thing! Even though it may be very old fashion, but, hey, it works. To burn your files and photos as backups onto CDs or DVDs you first need a burner. If your computer already has this function, then insert a blank disk and burn the information you need onto the disk. 

Because of the outdated technology, it could be costly choosing this method. However, CD and DVD disks are safe from malware information theft. So as long as you keep the disks in good condition, the data you copied onto the disk is safe. 

 Subscription Backup Services 

If you’re new to backing up your files and photos, then subscribing to a backup service would be a good option to try. Backup services such as Backblaze and Carbonite are programs that run in the background of your computer and automatically update the latest version of your device to their server if you ever need it.

Unlike cloud services, the downside to backup services is that it doesn’t have a managing system. Despite the lack of a management system, backup services are still easy to navigate. By paying for a superscription service, you’re able to restore your lost files with a click of a button. 

NAS (Network Attached Storage)

If you prefer using an external hard drive for backups because of its convenient use between multiple devices, then NAS would be a good option for you. NAS function like a wireless hard drive that can be accessed to its file storage as long as you’re connected to the network. Great for small workplaces or work-from-home individuals. 

It is a secure and reliable option for anyone that wants to take the protection of their data to the next level. Without it being online, there is no need to worry about potential third parties intruding on your data. So even if your computer ever fails or gets attacked by a virus, NAS will have your back!

Finally

Now that we’ve gone through different ways of backing up your files, it’s your turn to give them a try. However, keep in mind that no method is 100% fail-proof. That is why having multiple backups is very important. The more copies you have of your backups, the more protection you get if your data gets ever lost. For example, having files stored on both your cloud and external hard drive, and printing out a hard copy of your file. This makes sure that even if one method fails, the other two options are there to save the day. Remember, backing up your files in the first place will prevent a lot of trouble in the future.