Most departments regularly use the Depts folder (also known as the J drive) on LCFILES to store confidential and operational files. Confidential LC data should be backed up to LCFILES or similar LC hosted server. However, i f you are storing institutional data, network storage is often a better choice as it offers more security and robust options for data recovery when something goes wrong. When combined with the speed and convenience of an external hard drive, an online service can provide a complete backup solution. Online storage is excellent at protecting your data from loss due to theft or another disaster, however, recovery is slower and more cumbersome than from a flash or external hard drive. There are also several services that, for a reasonable fee, will backup your entire system online. Cloud storage is included in your LC Google Drive account and it’s easy to set up folder synchronization with the Google Drive App. In most cases these are not good options for confidential LC files.Ĭloud storage is often provided as part of your service for data stored on phones and other mobile devices. Be sure to carefully review the privacy and security policies and practices of any service before you upload personal information you consider confidential. Online backup or cloud storage can be a cost effective way to protect large personal files such as photos, videos, and music from catastrophic loss.Use an encrypted drive if data security is a concern. They are less durable than external drives, easily lost, and not appropriate for complete system recovery.
Notably, a full backup often requires a dedicated external drive that cannot be used for another purpose.Ī specific folder.
Best practice is to pair this method with another method that stores files remotely to guard against theft or loss of the external drive. This type of backup eliminates the risk of missed files or settings and allows you to quickly restore your complete system after a hardware failure.
Both Windows and MacOS have built in backup utilities that allow you to automatically make and update a complete copy of your computer on an external drive. Life research is more valuable than the cost of backup methods. Once you have a backup routine in place, you will breathe easier knowing that your data is safe! Data recovery services are very expensive, time consuming, and may not recover 100% of your data. We’re happy to help you come up with a plan. If you would like assistance, stop by or contact the Service Desk (Watzek 166, x7225 or to discuss your options. The following are guidelines to help you develop a backup strategy. Individual staff and faculty are responsible for making and keeping backups of files saved on mobile devices, desktop and laptop computers, and Google Drive. Making regular backups of your files is an often overlooked, yet critically important part of keeping your data safe and secure. Information Technology handles back up of campus servers such as LCFILES (also known as the J/H drive).