It is critical to regularly back up the data that is stored on your computer. University IT recommends two third-party vendors to provide secure, off-site, redundant storage and a variety of advanced features. Another option is for you to manage your own backups (that is, create copies of your files and store them in a safe place).
Vendor solution
Participation is by subscription to a centralized, networked backup service provided by an University IT-recommended third-party vendor.
- CrashPlan. Backup and recovery of Macintosh and Windows desktop and laptop systems.
Advantages. Centrally administered; provides secure, off-site, redundant storage; third-party service provides a variety of advanced features.
Disadvantages. Client-side configuration may be difficult.
Local solutions
- Networked backup-and-restore to centralized facilities, including CD or DVD, SCSI tape drives, removable drives, or servers. Purchase of backup software and/or storage may be required.
- Personal Computer backup solutions available through the computer operating system. Cost is based upon number of gigabytes of disk backed up.
- Copy files to external disk drive, CDR/W, DVDR/W, storage stick, or AFS. AFS is free. Storage sticks cost from as little as $10; external drives can be added to most systems for under $200, plus the cost of CDs (typically, pennies per CD) and backup software, if used.
Advantages. Inexpensive.
Disadvantages. Client-side configuration can be moderately difficult. Self-administrated; relies on the computer user to remember to perform the backup; most solutions require the user to store a backup copy off-site (with the exception of files stored in AFS space); storage capacity limited by type of medium.
