January 18, 2008
When it Comes to Backups, the Rule of Three Works for Me (Most of the Time).
I have a long standing rule for keeping computer files or important documents safe, the rule of three. I try to keep at least three copies of documents in at least two locations, preferably in two different zip codes. This works for the documents I use every day. I keep the main copy on my flash drive. I then back-up the flash at work and then at home. That’s three copies in at least two different zip codes.
My current problem is that I only have two copies of my most important files, the hundreds of digital photographs of my kids. I have one copy on my main computer and one copy on a network-attached storage (NAS) device, which is stashed in a closet. Good protection from a hardware failure, but not from fire or theft.
As I see it, my options for that elusive third copy are limited. The amount of data involved is not huge by today’s standards, but larger than I can reasonably manage on a regular basis. Burning DVD’s or copying data to an external hard drive, then storing it at another location such as my parent’s house, is just too cumbersome.
I’ve been looking at two of the dominate online backup services, Mozy and Carbonite. Each of these services offer an unlimited storage option for around $50 a year, a pretty attractive option. I’ve tried the free version of Mozy, (2GB of storage and a slower back-up) with less than satisfactory results. I’ve since made some adjustments and tweaked my network, now I’m ready plunk down some cash for online back-up. While reviews of both services have said Carbonite is easier to set-up, I think I’ll buy the Mozy service, as I already have an account with them, plus Mozy has a $5/month as well as yearly subscription option. I’ll let you know how things turn out.
