Backing up files

[Deathstrike]

Hi!

I've been using DVD+R media for years, but with files getting larger, I'm finding DVD+R harder to backup files with and a pain when I have to split files up.

So that's why I've been researching about backing up data using DVD+DL and came in with the mindset that disc media was not only the cheapest, but the most reliable way to go about backing up data.

But as I researched some more, I found out how many problems DVD+DL meida have compared to DVD+R and that the cost ratio might even be neutralized between that of the external/hard drive enclosures.

So I was wondering what everyone's take is on backing up media. Should I still go the route of disc media and move on to DVD+DL or should I make a jump to external/hard drive enclosures. The thing is I find disc media more friendly if I suddenly have an urge to access specific data, but I'm worried that if I do so with an external/hard drive enclosure, they will wear out faster than disc media.

Thank you for your time.

[cowboyup910]

what, get yourself a hard drive

[wtsinnc]

My advise is to ditch the optical media and go with imaging to an external hard drive;
in the long run, it will be cheaper than using dual-layer discs if you back up often.
It's easy to find a reliable external drive with 500gb or greater storage capacity for less than $80.00 including shipping.

For imaging software, you can use freeware such as Macrium Reflect or this little jewel I found and tried last week.
http://redobackup.org/

Redo Backup is freeware and can be run from a CD-R for both backup and restore;
in other words, you don't have to install it to use it.
I've used it and it works as advertised, plus it also offers other system tools which allow for searching for files contained in an image plus much more.


Good luck !

[cowboyup910]

i love macrium, its so easy to use. not to mention i never have to re-install windows again. once it gets sluggish or in the case that i got my first virus, i simply do a recovery to an image i first created after i install windows, drivers and all windows updates.

[videopoo]

HDD may be cheaper but storing on optical discs would be more reliable. I personally use neither and do weekly back ups of all business media onto LTO tape drives.