Ever been diligently working on a project only to have your computer shut down abruptly due to a power outage or other problem? Then you know the importance of not only saving files as you’re working, but backing up your data to an external source.

In fact, the consequences of not backing up your data can be life changing and cost you time and money. If your PC is reserved for work use, you risk losing your client database, financial records and other integral pieces required to run your business. If your computer is used by your entire household, you risk losing irreplaceable family photos, money invested in digital entertainment and word processing files.

Essentially, you have three choices to backup your data:

1. CD/DVD
2. External Hard Drive
3. Offsite Backup Service

The amount and type of your data will determine the medium you chose. For example, if you’re a casual PC user then monthly backups of your information to CD or DVD will probably do the trick. To ensure you don’t miss any files, save all of your work under one main directory.

If you run a small business from your home and have large graphic files, then an external hard drive will not only keep your work files separate from personal files, but you won’t have dozens of discs to burn and keep track of.

If you’re a brick and mortar corporation, using an offsite backup service is simply a smart business decision. Loss of company data could cause you to hang a “Going Out of Business” sign on your front door within just a few days.

Another factor to consider in avoiding the data loss nightmare is to schedule your backup on a regular basis — daily, weekly, biweekly or monthly.

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