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Local Backup
There are several back up options for local back up, which is most frequently used by individuals.
Tape
The advantage of tape is durability as well as size. Tapes can contain the largest amount of data of any removable backup options. The disadvantages include cost, speed, software requirements and scheduled access.
DVD
DVD provided great amount of storage space (650 MB vs. 4.5-8 GB) and speed (7 MB/s vs. 10-20 MB/s) for not much cost. It is also quite fast to back up to a DVD. You can access them anytime by simply placing the DVD into your computer DVD drive. The disadvantages include a fairly small amount of storage space as well as support of any issues that may arise during the back up on the DVD.
USB Flash Memory Key
Flash memory card is the most portable form of back up. It’s the biggest advantage is has. You can see people having flash card key rings. It’s also very easy to use and works with most computers anywhere. Some of its disadvantages are cost, storage capacity and unpredictable durability.
Hard Drive
This is a backup approach that has just recently started appearing due to the fact that hard drives have grown much larger than any other form of storage. They are quite inexpensive, fast and easy to use. The disadvantages are proximity to local computer that may be effected and their durability. They are quite fragile.
Hard drive advantages
- Inexpensive. $100 will buy you 200-300 GB of storage
- Very Fast. Hard drives have transfer rates from 30-60 MB/s
- Easy to backup. While the setup is a little harder, it's as easy to use as a USB memory key. Either just copy the files over using Explorer or use a 3rd party backup program
- Largest amount of storage. There are no worries about splitting data between multiple drives. Just buy a drive the same size as the one you are backing up.
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