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The importance of backups
Although technology has become increasingly reliable over the last several years, it is very important to recognize that a computer is simply a machine composed of moving parts, none of which are failsafe. If you don't back up your computer's files regularly, you are putting your data at risk. Backups are a necessity, and you alone are responsible for making them.
What to back up
Before making any plans, note the important distinction between applications and files. Applications are the actual programs that are installed on your computer. Files are data that are read by applications. For example, Microsoft Office is a group of applications. The Excel spreadsheets, Outlook address book, and Word documents you've created using Office are considered files.
It is inefficient to include applications in your backup plan, as they are usually extremely large (MS Office takes up several CDs by itself!). In addition, most applications will not function properly if merely copied from one computer to another; they will require re-installation using the original installer program or CD. Your backup plan should concentrate on personal files that cannot be easily re-created.
For more information on suggested items to back up:
When to back up
How often to perform backups depends on how often you use your computer. At an absolute minimum, back up your files monthly. If you use your computer daily, your backups should occur with greater frequency. A good rule of thumb is to survey your files, then imagine that your computer refuses to start tomorrow. Were this to happen, how badly would it impact your studies or work if you could no longer access your files? If the answer is anything other than "no difference at all," then it is a clear sign that you should be backing up early and often!
How to back up
Files can be backed up to a wide variety of removable media. These devices vary in terms of storage capacity and reliability:
Regardless of which method you choose, it is important to make more than one backup copy. Store each copy in a separate, secure physical location.
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