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Online Backup vs. Local Backup

May 15, 2021

Online Backup vs. Local Backup

As we move forward in the digital era, we rely more on our devices, which store sensitive information, such as personal photos, budget spreadsheets, and work presentations. Therefore, every person who uses a device should have a backup plan in place to ensure that their data is safe from accidents, malware, and other threats. Two types of backups are available - online and local. But which backup type is better for you? Let’s explore!

Local Backup

A local backup means that you store your data directly on a physical device that's in your possession, such as an external hard drive, USB flash drive or optical disk. Some people may prefer physical backups as they have full control over where their data is stored, and it's not vulnerable to data breaches or hackers.

However, local backups can be unreliable as the devices may malfunction or become damaged, and you can lose your data alongside the physical backup tool. Furthermore, local backups are not immune to physical damage from natural disasters, such as fires or floods, which could destroy the data and the device.

Online Backup

An online backup, also known as a cloud backup, means that you store your data on remote servers, away from your physical location. Modern online backup services, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, use advanced security protocols to ensure that your data is safe from theft, damage or loss.

Online backups are ideal for multiple reasons. Firstly, you can access them from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. Secondly, online backup services often run automatic backups on a scheduled basis or in real-time, saving you the time and hassle of manually updating your backups.

However, online backups may require you to pay a subscription fee, particularly if you need large storage space or extra features. Additionally, you may have concerns about the security and privacy of your data if it's stored online.

Which Backup Type Should You Choose?

It ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and needs. Both online and local backups have their unique benefits and drawbacks. Therefore, it's important to weigh up the pros and cons and evaluate which backup provider or solution works best for you.

While online backups are often advocated as safer and more secure options, choosing a reputable provider, such as Google or Dropbox, is essential to keep your data private and secure.

Conclusion

Both online and local backups ensure that your data is secure, and you can retrieve it in case of data loss or damage. The final choice of backup type is yours, depending on your needs, budget, and personal preferences. By having a backup plan in place, you can feel secure using your computer peripherals and know that your data is safely stored.

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