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Question

Best backup practices?

Feb 23, 2014 11:11PM PST

With all the ongoing discussion of backups and their importance, I was hoping someone could give a list of backup policies, programs, cloud services, etc. that I should be using.
I use a backup program to backup my files to a NAS RAID 1 setup weekly. I recently had one of the drives get corrupted so I replaced it but it made me realize that there was no further protection if the NAS died.
I would like to explore the option of having those files backed up to cloud storage to protect against flood, fire, etc., ruining my files.
In the end, what I am most concerned about is pictures. The rest of the files don't need to be backed up beyond the NAS but the photos can't be replaced.
I think most of us who follow these forums could use a simple, step-by-step backup tutorial. Something that we can all follow and implement to the degree that we are concerned; those who just want a simple backup to those who, like me, are terrified of losing files forever.
Any help would be appreciated.

Discussion is locked

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Answer
backups
Feb 25, 2014 7:03AM PST

I have been using Acronis purchased thru Gene Barlow. A friend from the computer support group recommends the free program GFI, which seems easier to use based on his presentation.

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Answer
Best backup practices?
Feb 25, 2014 7:35AM PST

Sorry to burst your bubble, but there really is no completely perfect, risk free way to back up anything.
However, to be reasonably safe, I use multiple back up hard drives to store and save documents and pictures. I have one external drive that I have set up through Windows 7, to do a complete backup of my "C" drive once a week. I also manually transfer all my data to 2 other separate hard drives as redundant back up storage drives. Cloud storage? I do not like the idea of storing and saving any of my personal data to the cloud or any other online storage place.
In addition to all of this, I have a home network with multiple PC's, and I also store data on those other PC's as well.
But nothing is perfect and if you are "terrified" about losing some personal stuff, then get a fire proof safe, and put all your stuff on disks or a hard drive, and store it in the safe.

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Fireproof safe or...
Feb 27, 2014 6:17AM PST

... safety deposit box at your bank. Note: that should be in addition to a local copy that you can access quickly.

pauly1651 summed up the best recommendations perfectly.

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Answer
Go old school
Feb 26, 2014 6:59PM PST

Once your prints are done at Walgreens, put them in a zip-lock bag and place them in your safe deposit box at the bank.
If you have a digital-fetish, scan them to a DVD and put the DVD in a zip-lock bag and place it in your safe deposit box at the bank.
Remember, if it's an easy solution - it probably won't last.