The Simplest File Backup

A Backup Article Contributed by M. Larose

The Simplest File Backup

Defining the term file backup can become amoeba like depending on who is doing the explaining. This is because the file backup runs throughout the whole of a backup process and the way IT departments deal with file backup can include all types of backup strategies. That is why many people, when asked for a definition of file backup, may launch into an unwieldy and detailed outline of what a file backup is. To them a file backup may be hung with details and schedules. For the typical user or beginner it is a simple definition that defines a file backup.

The Definition of File Backup

The simplest definition of the term file backup is this, making a copy of a document. That's all it is. Now what you do with that copy is just as important as making it. The idea behind file backup is the just in case principle. Just in case the original file gets deleted, damaged, or lost, you now have another copy of the file to work from, print from, and add to.

So it stands to reason that when you make a backup file you will probably not want to keep that file on the very computer that may do harm to the original file. Take that file copy, and either copy it in the first place to another storage media, a floppy or a CD, or move it to another storage media. Remove the media from the drive, label it and place it in another location. Some place that you use consistently for backup items.

This way you will be more apt to remember where you placed it when you need to recover the file.

Backup File Storage Alternatives

If you are using the backup file process at home and you either work for yourself or you have a home office, you might want to consider some file backup alternatives. Working with a clients information or your employer's information means that you are working with and have a responsibility to protecting that data. It really does not qualify as yours but instead may belong to the business or client.

Leaving the file on your computer without making copies is filled with risk and possible threats. More than likely you do not have the type of encryption and authentication most IT departments use nor do you have the file backup procedures a business enterprise usually invests in. So storing the original on your personal desktop or laptop with no file backup is a risk.

Instead, backup the original on to a CD or floppy or even a memory stick and take it to the office for safekeeping. Better yet, just email it to yourself at work or to just to your same email address.

Tracking the Backup File

When you begin a backup file process you usually are concerned with protecting your data and your work time. If you need to backup more than just a few files you will want to address the issue of version consistency. Which version is it that you just backed up and which version is the newest? Is the one at the office the newer version of the one at home. This is simple to resolve by using a naming convention that is held to every time you backup a file.

By beginning the file name with the date, say 20041101, which would read November 11, 2004, and then following it with a descriptive name you will always know which files are your latest version. File management of file backup is one of the first necessities of file recovery.