by Walter Calnek

Created on: April 21, 2008

Data backup is an age-old dilemma. Before the use of computers, some had discovered that having duplicate data was very beneficial. What happens when data is lost? What happens if there is no backup of that data? Sadly, the answer is simple. In many cases that data is lost. One might say that the data has gone to data heaven.

Murphy has left his laws scattered around the computer arena. He will catch someone when they least expect him. Many people do not understand the importance of data backup until they are hit by data loss. Hosts of data destroyers are awaiting the opportunity to obliterate ones unprotected data. It is not a question of if it will happen but likely a question of when it will happen. One can just about guarantee it will occur when one does not have a backup.

Many of the devices used in computers are mechanical. One might question if they are willing to go on a long trip in their car with a tire that has a slipped belt. "Would you make a 500 km drive with a person whose tire in such a state without a spare?" One might suggest that this is like driving without a backup.

Data is the information one enters into his or her computer or receives from another person. A backup is a second copy of the work or data that one does not wish to lose. Backing-up ones data ensures that the data is safe. In fact, it does not hurt to have multiple backups. Making backups doesn't take a great deal of time.

A single user may not have a great deal of data, or at least they may not think they do. Often, one simple question is overlooked. "If you were to lose everything on your computer, how would it affect you?"

The only way to replace lost data is to restore it, so it is essential to know what data is important. No matter what the data is, one will hear the same story if the data is of any significance.

Data loss is inevitable. Those not yet caught by it may suggest it is not important. They will sing a different tune, however, when their business depends on the backups they didn't make. If one cannot identify monies owed, it can destroy a business. "Do you know what data is important to you?"

There is one guarantee one can restore any data backed up and still available. The cost of data backup is time, but not taking the time can cost a small fortune to harness such a recovery and, there are no guarantees of recovering all data. Talk to someone who has already lost data. They are likely not taking chances anymore. "Do you wish to be the Evel Knievel of skipped data

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