More on backup strategies, and different backup options, including Mozy backup

Often I hear people say "I don't need backup - I don't have anything that important." People underestimate the amount and the importance of data on their computers, and the difficulty/cost of replacing it once it is lost.

Anyway, here is a quick breakdown of different types of backup, with a brief description of associated advantages/disadvantages.


1. Simple Data Backup - in the simplest form, this backup creates a copy of data (like My Documents folder) elsewhere, and can be done to CDs, DVDs, external drives, USB Thumb drives, etc. It is quick and easy, and offers decent protection for data (if done regularly, such as daily or weekly). If left to be done manually, it is often skipped, so it is best to automate this task. Many different types of tools can be used, many oft free (such as Replicator). If your hard drive crashes, you need to install Windows and associated updates, install all your applications, and then restore your data. Unless backup data is stored off-site, your backup could be susceptible to electrical surges, or could be damaged by fire, along with your primary PC.


2. Image-Based Backup - this type of backup, in addition to protecting data (My Documents folder), also protects your applications and Windows. It is similar to System Restore built in Windows, but much more comprehensive. Backups can be done weekly or monthly. For example, if your hard drive crashes, or are hit by a virus/malware, your can simply restore the last image (without re-installing Windows and your applications), and can have fully operational system in about one hour. The software required for image-based backup such as Acronis TrueImage or Norton Ghost, typically costs $40-80. Unlike simple data backup, this backup takes longer since it backs up the complete system. Unless backup data is stored off-site, your backup could be susceptible to electrical surges, or could be damaged by fire, along with your primary PC.


3. Online Backup - this backup, is very similar to the Simple Data Backup, but instead of being stored on an external hard drive that sits next to your PC, the data is stored in an encrypted form in a secure data center run by a the backup service provider. Basically, any time a data file is changed, the backup software uploads it to the data center. This requires a broadband connection, and the initial backup can take days or even weeks, depending on the amount of data you have. Subsequent backups are quick and done in the background. The biggest benefit of online backup is the fact that data is secure no matter what happens to your PC (fire, electrical surge, theft, or a virus). The potential downside is that the restore process would take more time (limited by your internet connection bandwidth). The online service I found to be easiest to use and most cost effective is available at: http://www.mozy.com/?ref=3f9a896b&kbid=38923&m=5, and I just received a 10% coupon code (type in APRIL at checkout) that knocks the two years of unlimited backups down to $93.


Personally, I use all three backup types to provide the best overall protection. Specifically, I use:

1. Karen's Replicator backing up daily to and external hard drive.

2. Acronis TrueImage backing up weekly to and external hard drive.

3. MozyHome unlimited backup, backing up continuously to Mozy data center.