Verify Your Backup

1. Check your backups -  You can verify the date and size of the backup to be sure that backup did what you expected it to do.  Just swapping out the tapes or hard drives is NOT verifying the backup.
2. Test your backup - You should test your backup periodically by restoring a file from your backup.

Backup Media

1. Flash Drives – Flash drives are fine for transfer data from one computer to another, but should not be used as reliable storage of your data or your only backup media.  Flash Drives are easily damaged.
2. CD or DVD -  CDs and DVDs are great for backing up information.  We recommend that you burn 2 copies of critical information and store them in different locations, like a safety deposit box.  This is an easy way to protect those irreplaceable pictures or critical information.
3. Hard Drives – Hard drives are great for full system backups, but they too can be damaged.  Make multiple copies of critical system backups and data.  Rotate the backup media.