Saving Files

[Zygy]

In addition to saving my files on the computer I also save them on CDs.
Recently a CD with very important files on it developed a fault, which
resulted in the CD showing empty.
The whole idea of saving files is that if my computer crashes (as it did, so
that I had to reinstall Windows loosing all my data) I will still have all
my files on the CDs, but if these fail as well how else can I save the
Files?

 

[DL]

For important data you use at least two differing forms of media, and maybe
even two different backup apps
(I use 3 * media & backup apps, in seperate locations)

 

[Adam Albright]

In addition to saving my files on the computer I also save them on CDs.
Recently a CD with very important files on it developed a fault, which
resulted in the CD showing empty.
The whole idea of saving files is that if my computer crashes (as it did, so
that I had to reinstall Windows loosing all my data) I will still have all
my files on the CDs, but if these fail as well how else can I save the
Files?

The best way to save important files hard if not impossible to replace
and you can't afford to lose is use multiple formats.

For my video work I make three backups.

1. One to an external drive. A straight non compressed full copy.

2. Another burned to a DVD, they are more stable than CD's.

3. The final copy is burned to digital video tape, so if the
other copies fail I can always take that copy in from a camera
again.

If you're going to rely on CD's (I sure wouldn't) at least make two
copies of everything and confirm they are actually useable once you
burn them.

 

[Boris]

The best way to save important files hard if not impossible to replace
and you can't afford to lose is use multiple formats.

For my video work I make three backups.

1. One to an external drive. A straight non compressed full copy.

2. Another burned to a DVD, they are more stable than CD's.

3. The final copy is burned to digital video tape, so if the
other copies fail I can always take that copy in from a camera
again.

If you're going to rely on CD's (I sure wouldn't) at least make two
copies of everything and confirm they are actually useable once you
burn them.

DVDs more reliable than CDs? Interesting. I wasn't aware of that. Why
is this so?

Thanks.

 

[Mick Murphy]

For short term saving, use a flash Drive.

 

[UnswoleLilDude]

You need a good backup plan. This will point you in the right direction.
http://www.maximumpcguides.com/create-a-bullet-proof-backup-plan-for-windows-vista/