You need at least two copies.) To be safe, back up entire folders on a recurring basis to ensure that newly created or updated files are backed up. (Simply moving a file isn't backing it up. If you need to back up specific data only, use software that lets you choose which files you want to save. But your needs for redundancy, security, and access dictate what kind of backup you should use. Here's a quick look at the types of backup available, as well as the tools you'll need to pull it off with as little work as possible.īacking up can be as simple as copying a file from one spot to another-from a hard drive to a removable USB flash drive, for example. At least one in five people have never backed up their data (according to the World Backup Day website). The most likely reason is that backing up takes some effort. Computers can become infected, and accidents happen-but even after losing important documents, irreplaceable photos, or entire sets of financial records, most of us still don't back up. Redundancy, people, redundancy!Īs the organizers of World Backup Day (Opens in a new window) note, people produce quadrillions of files every year, but so many fail to take adequate steps to preserve their data. But one copy of a file on your computer does not a backup make. We all know we're supposed to back up our data it's essential for peace of mind. How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication.How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.

Personal computer backup