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The Importance Of Backups-(Computer Or Other)     2017 12 01
Lesson 026...                                                                                                 Published Monthly

Defining The Problem...
Panic!! The realization that immediately replaces your complacency since the last computer episode.
It's felt here at least once each month when a computer crashes, jams or has an error message!

The underlying issue is that there is no "recent" backup of what we obviously feel is important to us.
This is why so many operating systems have automated restore settings at timed intervals.

Sometimes there comes a point when project information is flowing well and we don't want to stop!
That's when the highest risk of data loss happens-When many things are happening all at once!

Additionally, not everyone is as computer or internet savvy as they would like to be.
There is a major difference between "saved" and "backup" when your OS or hard drive fails!
Understanding the two and using them appropriately can give anyone the confidence to work swiftly!

In a nutshell, defining the problem is that we were somehow un-prepared for a given catastrophe.
The incoming dangers can come from any direction at any time with little to no warning.
Backup or saved files should not be considered as a blockade, but as a restart.


How Does That Happen?...
People usually envision the worst scenarios...Crashed or stolen computers, etc...
Though these things are real, there are many more commonplace issues that can happen.
The reason itself can be anything and doesn't actually matter, but here's a few un-fanciful reasons...

Software updates-Whether directly or in-directly affecting the program(s) that you use.
Accidental deletions while performing necessary maintenance or transfers.
Saving your tree to online websites that can lock you out.

Unsaved program closings as well as the actual backups not done or too far between are also tragic.
Other endeavors, project goals and life in general can sidetrack even the best laid plans.
When you find yourself saying "That's because...", these are the reasons why.

With all the hub-bub swept away, the basic reasoning for the mishap comes down to two things...
One...Even the most routine happenings gone wrong can be at the root of any disaster.
Two...The timespan since the last backup is too great for any safety measure.


What's Been Done To Fix This?...
Many people are convinced there must be some "magical formula" for this technological preparedness.
There's not... Computers simply represent modern mans highest level of logical thinking.
At one time the "Dewey Decimal System" baffled many, yet so simple now.

You're probably already aware of "The things that have been done to fix this".
But if not, just like everything else... "It's easy once you know how!"
Just remember the two basic methods - Saves and Backups.

Additionally, many "specialty" programs have built-in safeguards for backups or intermittent saves.
Be aware if you have them, and even if so, perform your own backups and saves as well.
A good time saver is while using one program, backup another that's also open.

Saving your work can be done anytime after adding a single keystroke or image to a pre-existing file.
The main point is to remember to do it often throughout the worktime while the program is open.
People generally become aware of this and develop better habits after several "mishaps".

Backing up your tree data  is an important maintenance function that should not be dismissed.
If your images are in another program then back those up as well - Use best practices.
The family tree software here saves all its data during any backup format.


Where Can We Save/Find The Lost Data?...
Depending on which program(s) are being used, a variety of places exist to keep copies or backups.
Usually a software will allow the user to choose or create its destination for saving or backups.
Regardless, a seperate method should be used for redundancy as well as independance.

Most commonly used are the USB-Thumbdrives which are very portable and relatively inexpensive.
Their practicality ends when the user becomes interested in saving larger document bases.
Most trees without images (database-only) will fit nicely even on smaller drives.

Some users may wish to save more images than only those relating to their own specific individuals.
In these cases, an external USB hard drive with larger storage capacity may serve them better.
Avoid being overly concerned with the "leading technology", as this is mainly for backup.

A variety of hardware methods exist to fit a wide range of needs, with two major priorities.
Size matters... Choose sizes according to need, portability/ease of storing, and of course its cost.
Think outside the box... Second only to the act of actually creating backups is to use a separate drive.


What Did We Learn From This?...
There are several simple yet key principles to learn from this lesson...
First, there are no magical/automatic safeguards in place to cover every mishap.
Second, you are responsible for your own maintenance, including methods and intervals.

The time and space relative to creating a backup is minor compared to the family tree work involved.
Sometimes "the unknowns" like costs, times or methods keep us from implementing the basics.
In reality, for under $5.00 we can attain at least a minimal barrier of safety for our work.

All of the variables noted can be overcome for the time and cost of eating a breakfast sandwich.
Performing the task is a simple copy/paste for your folders while software methods vary.
Learning the softwares method will become clearer over time with regular use.

Additionally, if your family tree software offers several format choices for backup - DO THEM ALL!!
When disaster strikes and you need to re-install or re-purchase, which type will you need?
Updates, software, hardware or computer changes come unexpectedly-Be prepared!

Backups are a "do-over" to the last time that you performed one, not to any point you want it to be.
Their purpose is to minimize the damage incurred between the disaster and your last backup.
By minimizing the time between backups, you can lessen the impact of the disaster.


The Basic Rules...
First...
Be aware that like other equipment, your computer needs regular maintenance.
Virus cleanings, software updates, defragmenting and hard disc repairs are essential!

Second...
Do the saves and backups often and routinely. Schedule/mandate yourself to do backups.
Remind yourself to develop the habit of saving your work several times during any processes.

Third...
Keep all backups on an independant/separate drive than your computers working originals.
Backups should never be stored on the same physical hard drive that the operating system is kept.


As always...
What you'll choose to do with this information is up to you.
It will at least serve as a stepping stone for further knowledge.
You should be applauded for your willingness to educate yourself.

These are only basic guidelines, and can always be adjusted to suit your personal needs or budget.
Hopefully the knowledge gained here will help you to be better positioned as a family historian!

      Happy searches!!

        Massachusetts

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