In the digital age where most of a student’s academic life exists in the virtual realm, the importance of backing up data cannot be overstated. I recently sat down with Emily Lawson, a final-year university student and self-proclaimed tech enthusiast, to discuss her approach to data backup and the best strategies students can employ in 2024 to protect their academic work and personal files.
As Emily recounts, her journey into the world of data backup began after a particularly harrowing experience. “It was my second year,” she begins, “and I had just finished a substantial part of my dissertation. I was feeling quite accomplished, but then, out of nowhere, my laptop crashed. I hadn’t saved my work on any other platform, and I lost everything. That was my wake-up call.”
Emily’s story is not unique. Many students have faced similar predicaments, highlighting the critical need for reliable backup solutions. “The first thing I learned,” Emily continues, “was the importance of running a full backup before anything else. It’s like laying the foundation for a house — essential for everything that follows.”
Full backups, as Emily explains, are comprehensive copies of all files and data on a device. They’re crucial for safeguarding against the complete loss of data. However, she quickly discovered that maintaining weekly full backups was both time-consuming and data-heavy. “That’s when incremental backups come into play,” Emily notes.
Incremental backups, she elucidates, only save new or modified files since the last backup. “This method is a game-changer,” Emily asserts. “Once you’ve completed an initial full backup, incremental backups are quick, efficient, and ensure that all my latest work is safely stored without duplicating everything else.”
Emily uses a combination of both cloud and local storage solutions to ensure her data’s safety. “You can’t put all your eggs in one basket,” she laughs. “I use cloud services for their convenience and accessibility — I can access my files from anywhere, which is a lifesaver during group projects or when I’m travelling.”
She lists some of her preferred cloud services: “Google Drive is great because it integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace tools, which I use a lot. Then there’s Dropbox and MEGA — each has its perks and limitations, but they provide the flexibility and security I need.”
However, Emily is quick to point out the importance of having local backups as well. “I use a portable SSD for my most critical files. It’s fast, reliable, and I don’t have to worry about internet connectivity when accessing my data.”
For students just starting their data backup journey, Emily emphasizes considering both free and paid options based on their needs. “For those tight on budget, free services offer a good starting point. But as your data needs grow, investing in a paid service with more storage and features is wise.”
Emily also shares some practical advice on what students should prioritise for backup. “Definitely all your study materials — essays, projects, and any ongoing research. Don’t forget digital textbooks and notes. And of course, your photos and videos from those memorable college events — you don’t want to lose those memories!”
Moreover, Emily stresses the importance of the 3-2-1 backup strategy, which she has adapted into her routine. “It’s simple: keep three copies of your data, use two different types of storage, and have one offsite backup. It’s a bit of extra effort, but the peace of mind it brings is invaluable.”
As our conversation wraps up, Emily leaves with a final thought: “Backing up your data might seem like a chore, but it’s an investment in your academic success and personal peace of mind. With the right mix of full and incremental backups, and by using both cloud and local storage options, students can ensure their hard work is never lost.”
In a world where data misfortunes are just a click away, Emily’s experience serves as a compelling testament to the necessity of diligent data management. Whether you’re a tech-savvy student or just starting out, these strategies can help you navigate your academic journey with confidence and security.
By Chuck Derricks