The event of something happening that could result in data loss is not at all unlikely. In fact to expect unexpected defects or
errors to occur is a reality in the world of information technology. This entire space involves the simultaneous functioning of
minute system structure that if are off the track by even the slightest margin could result in errors in the final data as we
perceive it.
Data can be lost due to several reasons from human errors, to natural disasters to system malfunctions. The resultant defect
could either be physical, logical or both at the same time. Data loss due to physical damage of a storage medium is harder to
recover by a common user and would require the expertise of a professional.
Data loss due to logical damage can though not always
be recovered by inbuilt recovery software. Data recovery is a precise and specialised process which has to be done very carefully
or could result in permanent loss of data. Backup of data in an alternative media reduces the risk of data loss and allows for
regular functioning to carry on without loss of time.
Backup Media
Whether you are a large multinational corporation or a common PC user, everyone has data that is valuable to them and needs to be
safe guarded from loss.
The only thing that changes is the volume of data to be stored and the extent of damage caused if data is
lost. Large corporations require storage of data which if lost could result in the loss of millions or even billions.
Their
requirements are for hardy storage media that has a large capacity, as the volume of data to be stored is immense.
Increasingly large companies are falling back on remote data back-up as an ideal and plausible option for their needs.
These
mission critical files are backed up in a remote location and therefore can survive even the worst disaster in the existing space
of the company. Theses backup files are stored with the help of encryption codes which further prevents data loss by theft or
hacking.
The only visible drawback to remote data backup is that it can be quite a tough administrative task to keep track of the
different remote locations and the file destinations. Companies also use tape drives and external hard disk as preferred backup media as these are relatively hardy and have large
storage capacity.
Common users on the other hand who do not have the need or the resources to invest heavily in expensive backup alternatives have
a wide choice to make from what is available in the market. CDs, DVDs, Pen Drives, Zip Drives, Tapes and online backup are
different backup options that are available to users.
A zip drive offers a range of storage options and includes backup software. However one would have to invest in hardware and
sometimes disks too. It entails using removable zip disks to store large quantities of data.
A compact disk can be with a read/write ability can be used to burn information onto. Most computers are designed with an inbuilt
CD drive and these disks are extremely affordable and can be used again. They are however not very hardy and can be damaged
easily.
DVD burners can double as CD burners which makes it extremely flexible apart from being able to store more data than a CD. They
are also portable and not very expensive. If a computer does not come with an inbuilt DVD drive, it would mean investing in one.
USB flash drives are hardy, portable and very user friendly. The only drawback is because of its size, can be misplaced easily.
Online storage offers a user the option of saving files online which can be retrieved at anytime if one has an Internet
connection. This offers safety from natural disasters and theft. Large volumes of data can be stored for a relatively low price.
However, one is dependent on the smooth functioning of the online company's server. Also, if not encrypted, data can be
susceptible to hacking and theft.
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