Back Up Your Files
OK, now that you have your firewall turned on, your operating system updating automatically, and your antivirus and antispyware programs installed, what else can you do to protect your PC?
Because no security method is guaranteed to be 100 percent effective, it is important to back up your critical files on a regular basis, before you encounter a virus or other problems—from power surges to equipment failures—that may damage your system and delete some or all of your data.
Backup Methods and Strategies
There are many different methods for backing up your files. Most new computer systems come with backup capabilities that enable you to make “safety” copies of your key files and information on low-cost, high-capacity CDs or DVDs. Other options are to back up your files on an external hard drive or to trust them to a Web-based backup service.
There are two key strategies for backing up your files:
- Schedule time to back up key information regularly
- Store back-up copies somewhere safe
Keep Your Backup Files Safe
You should treat your backup computer files just as you would your most valuable paper documents, such as wills, deeds, and insurance policies. Store them away from your computer—in a safe deposit box, for example, or in a fireproof box in a different part of your home or office. That way, you’ll be protected in case of fire, theft, or other catastrophes. And keep a list of everything you back up, so you can easily retrieve the information you need if you ever have to rely on your backup files.
To learn more about backing up files, see the following articles in the Staysafe Toolbox:
