Being a victim of hard drive failure, not just once but twice, I have learned several lessons on how to keep my data safe. Here are some quick and essential tips on mastering the art of a ‘not-so-boring’ backup routine.
Triple/Quadruple Backup Routine
Synchronising files is a double-edged sword that can often result in a disastrous mess if you or the software make a mistake. It’s always wise to manually back up your data to three or four different devices.
- Local
- Cloud
- Offsite/External
- Master
While the local backup remains on your drive, the cloud backup may depend on it, as you’re likely to synchronise it with your local storage. However, using software like OneDrive may limit your options to protect or lock synchronised files. Although this is how it works, the user experience can be misleading. If the actual files are deleted, the synced files would promptly disappear from your so-called cloud.
This is where external and master backups come in to save the day. If you highly value your data, consider investing in durable and trustworthy external drives to safeguard it.
For sensitive and personal content, acquiring your own drives and establishing a routine backup, at least once a week or more, depending on your data needs, is advisable.
If your content comprises extensive media files or music collections, you may not have to worry much, as many music services allow you to download or sync purchased files for free.
Prettify and organize your files
Organising your files is one way to make backups less tedious. I know it’s easier said than done, but once completed, it makes things easier for eternity. I always have the habit of organising my music collections with proper ID tags, sorted well under different categories that align with my tastes, so every time I buy new music.
Automate Your Backup Routine
How about transforming your backup routine from ‘not so boring’ to ‘fire and forget’? If you have plenty of time on your hands, you can develop scripts to back up your selected folders to your local devices. For a comprehensive solution to save time and resources, I’d recommend Crashplan, which is free, to automate your backup process. With the free version, you can create a backup once daily to your local drive and to a remote computer that has Crashplan installed.
Hope these tips prove helpful.
