In the digital age, we save a lot of space and paper by storing almost all documents on computers. However, this means that we have to be extra careful not to lose important or unique files such as photos and financial documents.

Here are five ways to back up your digital files:

 

1. make more than one copy. Important files should be stored in two different locations so that they are not accidentally deleted or lost due to hardware failure. For example, photos should be stored on a CD, DVD or external hard drive in addition to the computer.

 

2. sort well. Label the files appropriately so that they are easy to find again.

 

3. regularly make a backup copy of all important files. A new external backup copy should be made after every change or edit. It is best to routinely check whether it is necessary to make new backups every time the computer is shut down.

 

4. check the backup copies. A common mistake is to make backup copies and not check whether they can be read properly. Errors can occur when copying and writing files, making the file unusable. It is also important to transfer old backups to new hardware from time to time. Data carriers become obsolete over time and are no longer compatible with new systems.

 

5. keep copies in different places. Keep CDs, DVDs and other data carriers in the office, for example, rather than having them all in one place at home. Another good option is to store files online. For example, you can upload your photos to www.flickr.dom or facebook, where they are stored on the server.