| Even though backing up files has been emphasized | | | | data, because hard drives continue to grow even this |
| for years as a security measure to prevent data | | | | option may require multiple disks and more time than |
| loss, too many people are still learning through bitter | | | | many users have. This may lead those selecting this |
| experience that backups are essential. This may be | | | | option to perform backups less frequently than they |
| due, in part, to confusion over the many options | | | | should. |
| available for external storage of backup files. | | | | More and more users are opting for external hard |
| As internal hard drives have increased in size, the | | | | drives to store their backup files. Software can be |
| media required to back up essential files has also | | | | configured to perform automatic backups and send |
| changed. At one time, it was possible to back up all | | | | the data directly to the external hard drive with no |
| necessary files on a series of floppy disks. Today, | | | | input required from the user. However, the distinct |
| the time and number of disks required for such a | | | | disadvantage of this system is that the data cannot |
| procedure would be prohibitive. Even Iomega Zip | | | | be stored offsite, as the external hard drive must |
| disks, which hold many times the data of a floppy, | | | | have a persistent connection to the computer being |
| are no longer large enough for the number of files | | | | backed up. |
| most users need to back up. | | | | A third option is emerging in the form of remote |
| There are basically three choices for external storage | | | | backup services. These are websites that allow users |
| of backup files. Removable media such as CD or | | | | to upload data files and retrieve them later in case |
| DVD-ROM, a separate external hard drive, or a | | | | they need to restore the files. This allows offsite |
| remote backup service accessible through the | | | | storage of backup files, however, this system |
| internet. | | | | requires a user to have internet access which might |
| Using CD or DVD-ROMs is the least expensive option. | | | | not be available in certain types of emergencies. |
| Many software manufacturers have backup software | | | | Additionally, users should not rely exclusively on |
| available that will create archives which can then be | | | | remote backup services to preserve their data as |
| written to a CD or DVD. However, even though | | | | companies do go out of business, particularly |
| some DVD-ROMs can hold more than 8 gigabytes of | | | | web-based companies. |