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How to Evade Data Disaster

26 smart strategies for backing up your most vital files--and for recovering them if you didn't.

Lincoln Spector

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You've heard all the reasons you should back up your data files regularly: One errant click could wipe out a critical document; a virus could munch whole folders; and mechanical problems could destroy your hard drive.

So why do so few people do it? Perhaps because the backup process is confusing and time-consuming, and provides as much immediate gratification as updating your insurance coverage.

Okay, so I can't make backing up your files a thrill. But I can make it easier and faster. In this article I answer some common questions about data backups so you can keep the most important things in your computer--documents, spreadsheets, e-mail addresses, and financial information--safe from data disaster.

But even if you resolve to back up regularly, you may fall off the wagon occasionally. So I've included tips on ways to try to recover your data when you don't have a copy--and that really is a thrill.

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