Backing up Computer Files

Pythagorous

Hi guys

Whats the best way to back up files on your PC. Can you buy an external drive and then just save all your files on it every week? Or should I lok at buying a few memory sticks?

albertross_2

how much data do you have? in GB?

Pythagorous

Hi albertros - 2.5GB

albertross_2

Do you have a DVD writer? Does that include windows and programs or just your data?

Norton Ghost or Acronis Trueimage are my preferred method of backing up, because they save the whole config, windows, programs, data, to DVD's, CD's, or external drives, and if you have a problem, you just boot from the DVD, and restore a fully working system with all your data in a few minutes. DVD's hold about 4.7GB or double that compressed, or you could probably get 2.5GB on 2 or 3 CD's, with compression.

External hard disks are better if you have tons of data, but if you get a virus, it could take out your backup as well as your main system.

usb sticks are ok for even smaller amounts, but they fail sometimes, especially if you pull them out to early.

Pythagorous

A DVD writer mmm - I think so. Its a brand new lappy so should do. have windows XP. Whats the difference between a DVD writer and CD writer anyway.

As you can see I'm not the most up to date with my new lappy!!

albertross_2

DVD writers can write DVD's and CD's, CD writers just CD's. DVD's hold 4.7GB, CD's 700MB.

Pythagorous

Many thx for your help - I'll probs jsut buy a couple of DVDs and save the info unto them every few weeks. I'm not too concerned with backing up the operating system etc. Maybe I should be though!

IvanOpinion

albertross wrote:

PS there are 3 types of people in this world, those that backup, those that don't, and those that really wish they had.

You forgot those that charge large sums of money to recover data that others should have backed up

ivan