Running a DVD Backup

A Backup Article Contributed by Ashley Lister

Running a DVD Backup

Running a DVD backup is a comparatively simple procedure. Anyone running backups on a regular basis will have come across the problem that CD-Rs or CD-RWs are often too small. While it is feasible to split backups over several CDs, this is not a very good solution if you have to backup several gigabytes of data. The most sensible thing to do in these circumstances is to use DVD-Rs or DVD-RWs instead of the smaller CDs.

Because a DVD can easily store the same volume of data as seven CDs, up to ten gigabytes of information could be stored in a single DVD with only a little compression. Using DVDs instead of CDs can increase the speed of large backups, simplify storage and make restoration a lot less complicated.

DVD Backup Compression.

To use DVDs more efficiently it makes sense to compress the backup before writing it to the disc. Compression can reduce the size of a backup by fifty percent - more in some cases - which in turn can double the storage capacity of a DVD. The majority of DVD-Rs can easily store 4.7 gigabytes of data. With suitable compression this can mean that ten gigabytes of data could be stored on a single DVD.

Compression is a time consuming task and, unless you are using software that has taken this into account, any user wanting to store amounts greater than ten gigabytes can expect a reduction in machine performance while compression is taking place. To reduce this drain on resources it is advisable to select a DVD backup software that includes a built-in compression facility. This should make the operation faster and more effective.

DVD Backup Encryption.

Storing to any media is always a potential security hazard. It isn't just DVDs that can be lost or stolen and, considering backups contain a wealth of sensitive information, the contents need to be protected. The two options available with DVD backups are either password protecting the backup, or encrypting the information as it is stored.

Some DVD backup softwares offer the opportunity to use both these features and, remembering that an average backup will contain sensitive emails, important documents and private accounts information, it would be prudent to employ all security measures that are offered. Taking precautions to this degree should stop the loss of a backup disc becoming a potential security hazard.

Writing DVD Backups.

Although DVD writers are now quite common on modern PCs, not many operators use them to backup important data. It's a surprising oversight that is usually blamed on the process being complicated and unfamiliar. While those points may have some validity, it is also worth remembering that the DVD storage media is comparatively inexpensive and able to store surprisingly large amounts. Rather than neglect such a key asset, or only use it for ripping movies or storing vast quantities of MP3s, it is more sensible to make better use of the technology and make regular backups straight to DVD.