Chris Blackwell’s Domain

You’ve heard it all before so I’m not going to give you a huge speech about how you should be backing up all your data everyday. Instead I’m going to talk to you about a new way to backup your data, mostly those really important files that you just can’t lose no matter what. If you already backup to an external hard drive in your house or office then you are already doing more then over 75 percent of the general population. However, your data is still not truly safe until you have multiple copies and it’s offsite.

If there was a fire or theft in your home or office, your backup drives would most likely be gone along with your computer(s). With that in mind I am going to recommend something that most people shy away from, and that is backing up your most sensitive data online. This does not involve opening up a web browser and uploading file by file using some ridiculously slow website. No, it’s much easier than you could have ever imagined. Almost all online backup service companies have small applications that install on your computer and quietly, in the background, backup your computer online.

The programs can be customized and allow for full or incremental backups. Incremental backups means that the program is only backing up the new files you have added or any changes since you last ran your backup. This is the preferred method for online backup since it takes far less time and involves much less bandwidth consumption. There are programs available for both Windows and Macintosh and some new companies are starting to come out with backup applications for Linux as well.

Online Backup Companies

There are dozens if not hundreds of applications and companies for online backup. For Mac users I recommend Mozy. Mozy is the backup solution I currently use and I have had great experience backup my data every night and even restoring data when I needed it. MozyHome edition costs only $4.95 per month and allows you to backup unlimited data.

If you are on Windows then I recommend using Carbonite. Carbonite has been around for quite some time and has a very good reputation around the net. Carbonite service costs $49.95 a year and includes unlimited backup data.

Whatever program you decide to choose, taking your data online where fire and theft can not hurt it is a great way to stay secure. You will feel more confident in your daily computing knowing that your data is safe, secure, and easily accessible.