The Perils of Using CDs for Backup Storage

We don’t want to lose our accounting records, important legal documents, business plans and other electronic files. They are critical business documents. So, thinking that we are making a wise choice, many of us burn our files onto CDs as a backup. Here’s the problem: CDs don’t last as long as we’d like to think. The average lifespan of a compact disk is 2-5 years, depending on the quality of the disk. Some manufacturers claim that their CDs will not decay for at least 50-100 years. But there is no guarantee that your CDs will last that long. Imagine having to pull historic documents for a client, plugging your CD in, and nothing shows up! This could be a nightmare.

A practical solution is to have paper backups of everything. If your backup goals include the ability to edit your electronic files in the future, however, you’ll want to make sure that your files will not decay.

To be on the safe side, you can increase the lifespan of your CDs if they are stored in a cool, dark place. Here are some other tips for preserving the quality of your CD data:

• Don’t smudge your CD with fingerprints. Instead, handle the disks by holding either the center hole or the outer edge.
• Keep your disk free of dirt, dust and other matter. This can be done by storing your CD disks in the original jewel case or on the spindle.
• To label your CD, use a non-solvent felt tim permanent marker.

Online Storage Solutions

An alternative to CD backups are using an online storage facility where you know that your documents are going to be safe. DriveHQ has a fantastic, easy-to-use online storage program that is free.

DataHQ's Interface

DriveHQ lets you just “drag and drop” your files right into its interface, meaning that you don’t need to know anything about FTP. There is no limit to the size of your files. When you’re starting out and testing the service, DriveHQ offers a free 1GB storage and up to 1GB download bytes per month. Paid options include more storage and features, like multiple accounts for group sharing and the ability to hook DriveHQ into your network. Another outstanding feature is that you can back up your email.

Watch It In Action

So you can see the potential of DriveHQ, view DriveHQ’s online backup live demo

Related ...

• July 1, 2008 -- Next Generation Faxing: Incoming Faxes Automatically Convert into PDF Documents (1)