Data Redundancy: Why You Need An External Storage Device
Earlier this year, I wrote about the importance of Data Redundancy though extra backups – particularly if you work at home. By now, work solutions that had seemed temporary, are looking more like a new way of life. Indeed, for many, whether full-time or part-time, they actually are. So, when do you start thinking about additional data security?
First, a little recap: Why You Need Data Redundancy
Everyone is trying to sell you their cloud-based solution. But my background in IT tells me that you never keep all of your Data ONLY in one place.
If hackers can get into a cyber-security firm’s systems, why would anyone think they can’t breach a cloud bank? (If you’ve had enough of feeling scared, don’t, whatever you do, read the article I just hyperlinked to!)
I also cautioned about a new phase of sunspot activity. Yeah, yeah, yeah! Vendors will tell you this is a foolish fear. After all, what harm could a heavily magnetic field from something powerful enough to hold 8 planets and countless satellites in its orbit possibly cause magnetic storage!
So, I suggested trying to find a vendor that stores your data in multiple places. And, whatever you do, don’t make that your only backup!
You may also want to read: The Un-geeking of Data
External Hard Drives
I have a Seagate External Drive – they were the best reviewed brand almost 4 years ago when I bought mine. I went for a whole Terabyte! Who could possibly ever need that much, right?
It’s full! My Time Machine backups have now maxed it out.
By all means, if you swear by a particular brand, go for it. But always think big. How much space do you currently use? If you don’t have an external drive, you’ll need to multiply it several times over.
If I was buying one now, I’d go for at least 3 Terabytes, and probably 5. Too expensive? Believe what you’ve heard or read. Storage space is so much cheaper now than it has ever been. And it’s likely to get cheaper still.
The above image is of a 5 Tb drive. The cost is all of $119.99.
So, Why Buy An External Drive?
Arguably the best reason, as I stated back in May, is covered above. Additional Data redundancy.
Here are a couple of additional reasons to hold your ground and stick with your own storage.
If you have an issue with your computer and can’t get into it, you can use it as your startup disk
You can also use it on any other compatible computer as a disk drive, and work on any file stored. No need to sign in to your Cloud account on someone else’s computer. It works great for temporary use of a computer.
Just make sure that neither your disk or the computer you’re signing into have any viruses!
Data Security Isn’t Just About Storage
No article on Data Security would be complete without reminding you of the need for strong Antivirus protection.
For Macs, the undoubted leader is (and has been) Bitdefender. From my prior PC days, I know that there are more competitors, and ‘best’ is typically at least somewhat subjective. What do you think is the best, and can you please explain why?
Over To You
If you have any suggestions for people when it comes to cloud storage, external drives, Data redundancy, or computer security, please leave your comments, below. Please don’t try to sell anything via a link, as our spam checker will not allow that. But good, helpful advice is always appreciated.
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Andy Capaloff
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