It’s the same’ol spiel: Most of us know that we should back up our data, but the majority of us rarely do. Who wants to go out and buy discs then wait around while data is being burned. Or what happens if your documents, being largely text files, simply won’t fill a single disc and you can only find a CD-R?

There are many excuses, but it call comes down to the same thing: Most of us don’t back up our data because its too inconvenient or too easy to forget.

I’ve been using a solution to this problem. My documents and important image files have all been backed up, and they’re stored in a secure, encrypted place that I don’t even need to think about. Let alone bother to setup.

What I have been using is a free online backup service called IDrive-E Online Backup, and I’ve grown kind of fond of the little program.

You receive 2GBs (2,000 MBs) of free storage for your files, and the small program will automatically back up your files. What’s more, IDrive-E has easy to use pre-set categories to make set up a breeze. Take a look at this options window:

Just check one (or all) of those boxes, and if the files are in their default locations (they normally are) then the program will find them and back them up for you. No fuss and no need to mess with any additional options. Just tell the program its schedule and you’re good to go (note: some options are disabled on my computer because I don’t have those programs installed).

Here’s a view of the main program window:

There’s also another view that makes it look like you’re browsing any other folder on your computer. That window looks like this (on Windows Vista):

There are other friendly options, such as a bandwidth throttle so that the program does not prevent you from comfortably browsing the web or gaming.

Like I said, I’ve been using this program for some time now and I really recommend it. It makes backing up your files a breeze, and it’s good to know that not only are my documents available should I need to restore them, but they’re also stored in a secure location on their servers. So in the unlikely event that someone should ever compromise their servers then my data should still be safe from the identity thieves.

It’s easy, quick, and all works with a few clicks. online backup is definitely the way to go, especially when it’s free!

Oh, and before I forget, they’ve recently added the ability for small businesses to manage multiple accounts. This should make your life a little easier if you’re a small business owner.

Enjoy!

~Steph

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