We hear constantly these days about how much more dependent we are on digital data. In business, school, and social environments online, the need to constantly exchange and store data is increasing every year, and this brings on a whole range of issues regarding data management. Specifically, with heavier reliance on digital files that can sometimes be very important or valuable, the need to store files conveniently and securely is significant.
Fortunately, there are various means of storing digital files that allow for safe backup in the instance that a computer or computer system is damaged. Here are a few to consider, ranging from the crudest and simplest to the most advanced and secure.
Email Backup
For the very most basic of backup needs, a simple email to yourself can suffice. This is basically a crude form of cloud storage, as it allows you to access the file through email – but not necessarily through the same computer. Again, this is only useful for basic, occasional needs but if you’d prefer not to deal with a more advanced form of backup, this will work when you need it to.
USB Support
A favourite among students for most of the past decade or so, USB drives are very useful for extra storage and file backup. You can simply insert your device into your computer’s USB drive and transfer files of all kinds to the device, effectively giving yourself second copies of those files. Needless to say, so long as you hold onto the USB device, these files will be accessible even if the computer you originally worked on becomes compromised in any way.
External Hard Drive
The trouble with USB devices, for more serious or significant use, is that they are small, easy to use, and often fairly limited in data storage space (though various storage levels are available). If you prefer to be able to store an entire computer’s worth of data, either for backup or extra storage purposes, an external hard drive may be the better option. Basically, this is a larger and more capable version of what you get with a USB, and though you are still relying on another physical object (the external hard drive), the security of having data on both a computer and this device is valuable.
Cloud Computing
Finally, for the most efficient and secure means of file storage and backup available, consider the cloud computing services offered by companies like Sharefile. With access to the cloud, you can store any and all of your files in an off-site digital environment, allowing you to have your data in a place that you can access from any Internet device. Instead of relying on a computer that may break, or a hard drive or USB that can easily be lost, the cloud handles your files for you in a safe and secure digital environment. This is fast becoming the preferred method of digital backup.