Evaluating Backup Options

Traditional backup methods are tape, CD's/DVD's, USB drives and Zip disks. These are all manual processes that require time, backup software, a certain degree of technical understanding and they all need to be manually stored offsite away from your primary source of data, your computer.

Online backups are truly the next-generation solution for backing up data and there are a few things you need to know. Most online backup service providers will have comparable solutions but some software may not be easy to use and some companies don't have good backup support if you need it.

Having said that there are a few things below to help you picking the right provider:

1. Allocations: An online backup package is generally made up of bandwidth & disk space. I believe you should only pay for disk space and not bandwidth. Generally, you will be offered a certain amount of disk space for a monthly fee. This can range from 500MB, 1GB to unlimited. Make sure that your monthly allocation of disk space is sufficient, as data will increase over time and you don't want to have to upgrade too soon.

Some companies charge for the initial licence and software. This is usually a once up cost and well worth the investment. Prices may vary but remember, you get what you pay for.

2. Security: Your supplier should have their servers located in a security or data centre. You don't want to be storing your valuable data on a computer in someone's garage. The application should also have levels of username and password security and at least 128bit encryption.

3. Support: Make sure you are dealing with an Australian company with their servers and offices present in Australia. Because of international time zones etc it is difficult, if you ever need support, to contact someone if you need them. Also, it is good to support our own businesses in Australia.

4. Warranty: You get a 30 day money back guarantee. Most online backup solutions should provide a similar level of capability but if you are not happy for any reason you want to be able to recover some of your costs. A warranty will probably cover the initial purchase price of the software.