Q.
What is online backup?
A. Online
backup is basically a method of offsite data storage whereby
documents, files, folders, or the even the entire contents
of a hard drive are regularly backed up on a remote server
or computer with a network connection. Online backup service
providers offer this offsite backup, which is absolutely
necessary for disaster recovery in case files become lost
or damaged.
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Q.
Why is online backup necessary?
A.
The reason for acquiring online backup is simple. By backing up data continuously (or as frequently as needed) on a remote hard drive, the risk of data loss as a result of file corruption, fire, theft, or other natural disasters is practically eliminated. You can safely access or restore any lost files by using any PC with high-speed Internet connection and a Web browser interface. Privacy and security are assured with encryption and password protection.
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Q.
I frequently back up on CDs or DVDs, that works, why do I need some other service?
A. Many people choose to backup their data onto a CD or DVD. Others will use tape, flash drives or even an external hard drive. But users fail to realize that unless these are stored safely offsite, they face the same risk as your computer files being destroyed or damaged by fire, floods or other disasters. Online backup removes this effort and worry because files and documents can be automatically backed up at an affordable price.
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Q.
How long will online backup services or remote backup take?
A. High-speed Internet connections will obviously speed up the time it takes to back up your files and folders. Dial-up Internet users could face longer times but if they do incremental backups and schedule effectively they can save time.
Initial backups can take from hours to days depending on the volume and size of the data that is required to back up. That's why many people opt to conduct this during off-peak hours or even weekends. Time taken for subsequent and routine backups will be much shorter once the first backup is complete as only the changes or new documents will need to be copied and stored.
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Q.
How secure will my information be?
A. Online data service providers are extremely efficient at protecting your data. Files are encrypted during transmission over the network and while data is being stored to the remote servers offsite. Note that users have their own secure encryption code to prevent interception by other parties. Before you sign up with a provider, clarify how their security is conducted.
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Q.
How do you schedule automatic backups?
A. Online backup service
providers establish a schedule where users can select the
times of the day or night they want they backup to take
place. Once the software download is completed and you enter
your menu selections, including times to back up your data,
the procedure will be automated. Frequency of backup is
also a selection users make.
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Q.
What kind of stuff can I backup?
A. Providers are
equipped and ready to backup all file types and applications.
Whether its files, spreadsheets, databases, pictures, MP3s,
emails or computer programs, online backup providers can
be relied on to protect and secure your data and information.
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Q.
Can I backup files while my computer is running?
A. Yes you can safely
backup up open files and programs while they are running.
Verify this with your online backup service provider.
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Q.
Is it possible to restore data to a different computer than
the one that was backed up?
A. Absolutely. This
is a great feature of the online backup system. Data may
be restored to any computer connected to the Internet. It's
a great way to test that the restoration process is working.
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