You might not realize how vulnerable your midterm thesis or your vacation photos are until your laptop crashes and they’re wiped from your machine. Fortunately, there’s a simple step to preventing this–store your files in multiple locations. Backing up data regularly ensures that personal documents, photos, and other important files are secure in the event of a technology meltdown. Follow these tips from Geek Squad® and you'll rest easy.

Making a Local Backup

Transfers data to a separate type of media, such as a CD/DVD, external hard drive, USB Flash drive, or Windows Home Server or Mirra. For people who like backups of backups, especially for financial data, this provides a way to store the data offsite at another location or in a bank safety deposit box.

ADVANTAGE - Backups and restores are fast and accessible. Copies can be placed offsite for complete peace of mind.

DISADVANTAGE - Cost of media or server can be expensive. Even though the media might be very resilient, it is still susceptible to physical failure.

Using an Online "Cloud" Backup

These backups are stored online and can be accessed from anywhere and often by multiple computers. The data is often stored in a secure online location that is accessbile with a password you create.

ADVANTAGE - The most secure method and can be accessed anywhere. Backups can be setup to automatically happen in real time.

DISADVANTAGE - Usually requires a subscription cost and regular online access.

How to get started

Create a checklist
Document the files and folders to be saved. Back up the most important files first.

Create a schedule
Consumers may back up important information once a week. Small businesses may do so daily. Most backup software can be programmed to consistently backup automatically.

Verify the backup
Load information from the storage device back to the computer to ensure that the data copy is intact.

If you need help determining which options are best for you, an Agent can help you decide between our Standard and Large backup services. Learn more by chatting with an Agent or by visiting a store.