I agree

backing up to multiple servers is a great practice (and for those hooked
to a network - allows them not to have to worry about all the technical
issues)  Of course additional backup to CD/DVD on a periodic basis is
good.

JUST because some media "lasts" longer than others doesnt mean much - if
the hardware and software required is no longer 
supported. There can be many technical problems with the TAPE solution -
even if the media may be valid for decades.  

I dont have specifics but I believe there are various places on the WEB
that allow for data storage (backup) - with very little tehcnical know
how needed by the person placing there.  MY main recomendation is to
always have MUTIPLE backup sources (preferably on some network that you
know will be maintained and upgraded over time). If one service becomes
dysfunctional at some point you always have another source to rely on. 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: Research and writing about Virginia genealogy and family history.
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Debbie's Genealogy
Sent: Friday, January 13, 2006 7:35 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Backing up Your Data

I am a Software Professional and I agree with Wayne's post. It is always
better to have multiple methods in place. I back up to multiple
computers because I can. There are some inexpensive software packages
that can "sync"
files between multiple sources and I prefer that to some backup
software.

I just recommended to a friend that if you don't have access to a
network that one of the most practical ideas today is a USB drive,
attached to your computer...but I believe in multiple backups.

As to the article about tape backup. I have a small business and have
had several tape backup devices over the years, none of them cheap and
the biggest problem is the hardware goes bad, and then you can't
retrieve what's on those tapes (and when I say can't I mean without big
expense or heartache). Software that operates these devices change and
it takes a lot of time and brain work to sort it all out. It's just not
practical for a small user to justify the expense or headache.

I always buy name brand media (CD's, DVD's, etc.) and I have CD's that
have lasted well beyond what that article says. Like 6 years...but I
don't rely on them as the only source of the data.

More is better,
Debbie DeHart

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