If you have been an avid reader of this blog, you would know that I have mentioned from time to time the need to backup your files. In order to serve as a reminder or wake up call, I decided to write another article on this subject. Ok, “I have an XP or newer system and it has System Restore, why do I need to be concerned about backing up my files?” you ask! Well, for one thing, System Restore may do an excellent job in recovering your files, but, a backup it is not! Your System Restore is worthless, if your hard drive crashes and suddenly becomes useless! Then you need to get a new one or reformat the old one. Meanwhile, you have no backup files to restore from.
I am not putting System Restore down at all, in fact, System Restore recently saved my butt from a bad mistake that I made in deleting some files. It does have it’s strong points! It is just that System Restore is NOT a true backup system.
You have choices you can make in backing up your hard drive. Here are some options to consider (but not limited to):
1. Backup to tape or CD/DVD’S your entire hard drive(s).
2. Backup only files you create on a daily/weekly basis thus relying on the backup CDs you got when you purchased your PC
3. In addition to #2 above, include any programs you download from the internet in your backups. Otherwise, re-download and install.
These were just a few options to consider when putting together a backup scheme. I used to work for a Data Center and have experienced the harsh realities when files are not backed up. You can find some software in http://www.download.com to assist you in backing up your files.
