AIS Computers - Data Backup Blog

It's hard to believe it is already June, and the start of hurricane season!

As you start to prepare for hurricane season and take inventory of your supplies, don't forget about your computer's data. If our area was to take a hit, or something happened to your computer, you don't want to lose all your important digital documents.

Do you have a plan in place? If not, we offer custom data backup plans. We will meet with you to determine your specific needs and advise you on the best course of actions for securely backing up your data.

There are two main ways to backup your data: to the cloud and to an external drive. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages.

Cloud Backup

Cloud backups are one of the safest options available. As long as you have an internet connection, your data will backup to a cloud server. This allows you to access your data from anywhere, including smartphones and tablets.

With a cloud backup, backup speeds may slow due to the amount of data being transferred and the strength of your internet connection. Cloud backups also allow you to purchase more space as needed. There is also an extra layer of redundancy built in with a cloud backup. The majority of companies running cloud backup and storage have your data stored on multiple drives and if there is ever an issue, they immediately remove the failing piece of hardware and replace it to keep the redundant system in place.

Cloud backups require a monthly or annual fee, which can vary depending on the amount of space you need and service provider.

External Hard Drive Backup

External hard drives are another option. Backups can be set to automatically run when plugged in, but many require a manual trigger. With an external backup drive, our recommendation is to leave it unplugged unless actively running a backup. This will protect you and your data in case you get hit with a virus, malware, or randomware.

When using an external backup drive, the most important thing to remember is that it is a piece of hardware with the potential to fail. Most drives last about three years depending on usage and storage. External backup drives stored onsite are also vulnerable to theft, fire, flooding, and other threats.

External backup drives require a one-time fee - the purchase of the drive itself. Backup drives are often the least expensive option.

Depending on your needs, and what kind of data you are backing up, you may want to consider using both cloud and external hard drive backup services. This offers you two layers of backup protection and greatly reduces the chance that you will lose your data if an issue were to arise.

If you are still uncertain about which option is best for you, please give us a call. We will work with you to design a custom plan for your specific needs.

AIS Computers, Inc.

Computer Consulting and Repair

Preparing for Hurricane Season

This hurricane season, don't neglect your data.

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