Backup software can simplify the task of backing up your data by automating the backup process. But like any other software, some backup software programs have more features than others. Here's what to look for (and what to avoid) when you're buying backup software.
When you're checking the backup software's functions, think about your backup needs. What do you want to backup - just files or your operating system, too? Do you need to backup a network or just a single desktop computer or laptop? Also check that the backup software allows for doing different types of backup; a full backup is not always necessary or desirable and incremental backups take less time and storage space.
Not all backup software includes compression technology - but you definitely want the backup software you buy to have it, as backup files that are uncompressed will take up a lot more storage space, especially as your collection of backup files grows over time. Make this a must-have feature when you're looking at backup software.
You want backup software that gives you both manual and automatic scheduling options, and options such as being able to run a backup on only documents you've edited. One of the backup software features that I always look for is the ability to run backups in the background (without interfering with other applications that may be running). With this feature, you can run backups whenever you want and don't have to wait for downtime.
Where are you going to store your backup files? You want backup software that allows for easy transfer to a variety of media (CDs, external hard drive, tape drives etc.) or backup software that accepts the particular media that you're going to use.
Backup software that is difficult to use or manage is just as bad as no backup software at all, because people won't use it. Look for backup software that has an intuitive interface and provides logs and reports that you don't need a manual to decipher.
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When you're checking the backup software's functions, think about your backup needs. What do you want to backup - just files or your operating system, too? Do you need to backup a network or just a single desktop computer or laptop? Also check that the backup software allows for doing different types of backup; a full backup is not always necessary or desirable and incremental backups take less time and storage space.
Not all backup software includes compression technology - but you definitely want the backup software you buy to have it, as backup files that are uncompressed will take up a lot more storage space, especially as your collection of backup files grows over time. Make this a must-have feature when you're looking at backup software.
You want backup software that gives you both manual and automatic scheduling options, and options such as being able to run a backup on only documents you've edited. One of the backup software features that I always look for is the ability to run backups in the background (without interfering with other applications that may be running). With this feature, you can run backups whenever you want and don't have to wait for downtime.
Where are you going to store your backup files? You want backup software that allows for easy transfer to a variety of media (CDs, external hard drive, tape drives etc.) or backup software that accepts the particular media that you're going to use.
Backup software that is difficult to use or manage is just as bad as no backup software at all, because people won't use it. Look for backup software that has an intuitive interface and provides logs and reports that you don't need a manual to decipher.
Manage your small business wherever you are. Get our free online accounting service at recipts.
About the Author:
Cathy Howard is a Manila-based freelance writer who writes on a variety of topics.
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