Most computer users never think to back up their work—until they suffer a disastrous data loss. Then, they can’t believe they didn’t take a simple step that could have saved them so much trouble.

Data loss is inevitable

It’s not a matter of if you’re going to lose your data, but when. The loss can be devastating. But if you’re backed up, it can be virtually painless. Data loss can mean anything from a single important file to everything stored on your PC, and it can happen in a variety of ways:

File corruption during normal use
System crash, hard drive failure, or power surge
Physical disaster—anything from a dropped computer or a spilled drink to flood, fire, theft, or loss
Computer viruses and other malicious software

What do you have to lose?

If, like many people, you’ve purchased MP3s, movies, or online software, data loss can be costly as well as inconvenient. Consider all the kinds of files stored on your PC:

Music and video downloads
Irreplaceable photographs
Important business files
Financial records
Work product
Creative product

Backup is painless

Setting up a backup program takes a little time and effort up front, but once you’ve set it up it’s virtually automatic. Here’s what you’ll need:

External storage. The best choice is a USB drive that’s always connected. Online storage vaults provide offsite protection, and are especially handy for laptops that are often used on the road. You can also back up to CDs or DVDs, and store them in a secondary location, such as a safe deposit box.
A backup solution. Most USB drives come with backup software, but a more robust third-party solution can give you more convenient options and more comprehensive protection. A good backup solution will lead you through the setup process and enable you to:
- Back up automatically when certain events occur (for example, every time a file is downloaded or modified)
- Automatically back up specified file types, files that have changed, or all files at regular intervals
- Back up to any connected device, network location, or online storage site
- Automatically restore damaged or deleted files

Conclusion

Data loss can be devastating, but backup is painless. Take a few minutes now to set up an automatic backup schedule, and spare yourself from data disaster.