Backing up computer data is an essential part of routine computer maintenance. Many people already back up important files to a CD or to an external hard drive on a regular basis, but even those that back up data may still leave themselves at risk of losing everything in case of a fire or natural disaster. While many people back up their data, often the backups are kept in the same general area as the original hard drive. If the home burns down, if it is flooded, or even if an electrical surge damages sensitive equipment the backup may also be lost. The solution to this worst case scenario is to make multiple backups, including using one of many different online backup services.
What Is An Online Backup Service?
Online backup services offer users the ability to back up their important data to an off-site storage center. If the source computer and the physical backups are destroyed in an event, the online backup still exists, allowing the user to download and replace the lost files once a new computer has been procured. Most online backup services charge a monthly or yearly subscription fee for a specified amount of storage space. All transmissions between the home computer and the remote storage facility are encrypted to prevent data theft during transit.
Online Backup Services: Carbonite!
One of the most widely known online backup services is Carbonite. Users can sign up for a free thirty day trial in which a small software program is installed on the home computer. Over the next few days, important folders and files are copied to the Carbonite server for storage. When a file is changed in some way Carbonite senses this and automatically updates the server copy to reflect the changes. In the event of a loss of data on the home computer all that is required is to log into the Carbonite system and restore the lost data. For roughly $50 per year the peace of mind this service can provide is well worth the investment.
