Data loss is inevitable when you don't have a good backup solution in place. What can cause this data loss?

- Hard drive crashes

- Software malfunction

- Even operator error

Have you ever heard of a software malfunction happening? It happens even on the most secure and pristine computers in the world. Think about putting a computer backup system in place if you want to prevent costly downtime, data and software loss.

Next we are going to discover what your backup options are, what data should be backed up, what types of backup devices can be used, a restore strategy, and why testing is important.

The objective of a backup and recovery plan is to minimize the damage caused by a computer crash, and preserve your valuable software and data. Restoring your computer to its normal operating condition will be your first concern when facing this type of issue.

A common plan used by many computer users is to store all program installation disks including the operating system clearly labeled with serial numbers and necessary installation info in a safe place. As part of your backup program regularly back up your valuable data to another type of storage device other than your main drive where your operating system resides.

This secondary storage can be a CD, DVD, an extra hard drive mounted in your personal computer, or even a hard drive mounted in a hard drive enclosure connected by a USB cable. In the event of a hard drive crash or system failure, you could mount a replacement hard drive and reinstall your operating system with the disks you have already stored in a safe place. Programs could be added all at once or on as needed basis.

The importance of daily backups now becomes apparent. It is of most importance and sometimes obvious to make sure your critical data is included in your daily backup plan. If it is not backed up and it is lost, it is lost forever. You would be surprised how many people forget this important little statement.

When considering your backup and restore options you will need to determine the method of the backup and restore. Another option would be to completely backup the whole system by means of an Image backup. This would include a complete computer system backup bit by bit. Then when the inevitable happens and your system crashes you can restore your computer to the exact state it was at the time of the image backup.

If you value your computer software and data you should implement a computer backup solution that meets your needs. Prepare for the day when you could lose it all because of a computer malfunction. You should be considering a computer backup plan before anything major occurs. Now get going and make something happen.