Data Backup: Its Importance for Cybersecurity

Data backup options continue to evolve. Choose the option that best meets your storage needs, personal preferences and technology comfort level. For maximum protection, it’s ideal to use a combination of these types. However, any single option is better than doing nothing.

Removable device: The simplest, most practical way to store data for many individuals. This option includes small, portable devices such as USB flash drives, CDs, DVDs and newer Blu-Ray disks. However, these devices don’t offer much storage space. So, you might need to use multiple devices to hold all of your information, which can make restoring your data more challenging. Also, with their small size, removable devices can easily become lost or stolen.

External hard drive: A popular backup option because it’s easy to use, plus it contains plenty of storage space. You can transfer your data from your device to an external hard drive wirelessly or through cables.  But external hard drives can break over time. And, just like with removable devices, they can be lost or stolen.

Cloud backups: With this option, your data won’t be stored on a device you possess—which eliminates the possibility of losing the device. Cloud backups provide access to your data through the internet at anytime from anywhere. Storage space is ample, too, with some providers even offering an unlimited capacity.

However, make sure to use a well-established provider that encrypts your data for greater security. Also, check to see if the service is compatible with your device. Remember to use a strong password, ones that are lengthy, complex and unique, and take advantage of any security enhancement options offered by your provider, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Computer/device backups: Some devices allow you to create a data backup that’s stored on your device, which offers great convenience. It’s important, however, to use this option in conjunction with at least one of the other backup types described above. If your device becomes corrupted or inoperable, your data may be inaccessible.  And theft is always a possibility, too

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