For the backup of data, many data storage media can be used. However, if proper care of the backup media is not taken, then loss of backed up data may occur. Let us have a look at each of the storage media and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each of them. Also, let us consider some useful tips for taking care of the backup media.



CDs and DVDs

These are popular among the home-users for storage of data. They can be used to store movies, videos, photos, documents etc.

Advantages

• The primary advantage of CDs and DVDs is that they are cheap and hence can be afforded by most home users.



• Burning data onto them has become easier these days as most of the computers come along with the requisite hardware. The process of writing data is made simple by easy availability of corresponding software.



• Rewritable CDs and DVDs are available and hence backed up data that is no longer required can be replaced by newer data.


Disadvantages


• The major disadvantage of CDs and DVDs is that they are easily damaged, when mishandled. Scratches on either side of their surfaces can lead to data loss.



• Exposure to high temperatures may cause physical damage to the CDs and DVDs.


Taking Care of CDs and DVDs


• One should always handle them carefully and prevent scratches on their surfaces. Preferably, they should be used in a dust-free environment.



• When not in use, they should be stored in the cases that are usually provided with them.



• If the CDs or DVDs are being used after a long time, there is a possibility of dirt having settled on their lower surface. To remove the same a soft cloth that has been moistened with a cleaning solution for the purpose should be used.


USB Flash Drives

Flash drives are handy devices that can store a large amount of data. This is one of the reasons for their popularity in today's world.

Advantages


• They are small in size and, hence, easy to carry about. Also, they can retain data for longer periods of time (over 10 years).



• They are not easily damaged. Thus, the data present on them will not be lost due to minor falls or shocks.



• The data present in flash drives can be rewritten innumerable times.



• They have high storage capacities and offer high data transfer rates as well.

Disadvantages


• Flash drives of a good quality are expensive. Hence, their use for backup of excessively large amount of data is not viable.



• They can be misplaced easily as they are small in size.


Taking Care of USB Flash Drives


• The USB flash drives are sturdy devices. However, one should handle them with some amount of caution.



• They should not be exposed to moist conditions and contact with any fluid should be avoided.



• They should not be exposed to high temperatures.



• Exposing the flash drives to interfering electromagnetic fields produced by some of the home appliances may lead to loss of data present on them. Hence, the same should be avoided.


Portable Hard Disk Drives

These again have become popular for backup of data.

Advantages


• The major advantage of portable hard disk drives is the amount of storage space they offer. Due to this high storage space, usually one such device is sufficient for storage of all the data you need to back up. The storage capacities range from 40 GB to over 250 GB.



• These devices are similar to the hard drives present in your computer. Thus, the data transfer rates they offer are usually very high. Also, they support almost innumerable number of rewrites.


Disadvantages


• The portable hard disk drives are somewhat expensive.



• The data present in them can be lost if they suffer from falls, shocks etc.



• The data can also be lost due to strong external magnetic fields.


Taking Care of Portable Hard Disk Drives


• The hard drives should be protected from any shocks or falls and should be handled carefully.



• They should not be exposed to strong magnetic fields.



• One should not attempt to open the portable hard drive without proper technical assistance.


The Final Word

The devices mentioned above are some of the popular data backup media. One should always ensure that these devices used for data backup are handled with care. This can ensure that the backed up data remains safe and is readily available in case of loss of original data.