Protect Your Computer Data

Computers are a great piece of invention that has changed the human lives forever. They impact all the aspects of human lives, right from simple computing to the high-end medical applications. However, as is true for any piece of electronics, computers too are prone to failure. A computer can be very useful till the time it functions properly. However, god forbid, if it malfunctions the only option one would have is to curse oneĀ's luck. I am sure that most of us would have experienced such a situation one or the other time. Apart from an electronic failure, the data stored in computers is prone to many other threats. It is possible to lose the data due to power surge, natural calamities, human error and even sabotage. Given our extensive use of the Internet, this threat is multiplied manifolds because this is where viruses and hackers also come into picture. Though it is possible to run a data recovery program, it cannot guarantee that one would be able to recover 100% of the work. Also, these programs do not come cheap! Hence to avoid such a situation, it is prudent to keep an updated backup copy of all your data files.

The technology available for data backup has evolved over time. Various options of secondary storage are available nowadays. These range from floppy disks that come with a storage capacity of 1.44 MBs to high capacity storage drives like zip drive, CDs and DVDs. It is also possible to maintain an external hard disk drive with a very high storage capacity. Depending on the type of your data files and the size of the data that needs to be backed up, one can pick from the available options. Just getting the back up is not the end of it. It is equally important to keep these secondary storage mediums away from the regular workplace. Also, these backup storage devices should be protected from dust, heat or any other contamination that may render the storage device unusable. If possible, one should keep multiple copies of critical data.

There are times when one may unknowingly delete an important file. In such cases, it is very easy to restore the file back to the original location. All that one needs to do is to go to the recycle bin, select the relevant file and click the Ā'restore fileĀ' option. In cases where the computer seems to be having mechanical problems, one should heed to the warning signs. It is advisable to immediately shut down the computer and unplug it. If itĀ's left unnoticed, it would not be possible to run a data recovery program or a hard disk recovery program later. If one finds that the computer is not booting for whatever reason, or if there is a problem that one cannot diagnose, it is best to contact the service engineer as soon as possible.

What should you back up? Well for starters, any data that you have stored in your folders, or the software or drivers that you installed over time or even the system settings should be backed up regularly. And not to forget, if you can, do keep a backup of your favorite computer games.