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Online Backup for Desktop and/or Notebook (Part 2)

Sorry for the very late update regarding this topic.  I decided not to use any of these backup providers as (I guess) none of them satisfies my need.  I just decided to keep my files with my hosting backup provider.

I encrypted the files using TrueCrypt and SFTP to transfer it on the server.

That's it for this topic.

Related: http://blog.hugepixels.com/2010/12/16/online-backup-for-desktop-andor-notebook/

Online Backup for Desktop and/or Notebook

For a couple of days now, I've been going back and forth with my strategies on how I can effectively secure my desktop and notebook files.  Many of these files are critical and has sensitive information.

My concern is the idea that some employee of this company might one day view my account as well as my files.  I understand that most of them provide encryption on transit (from your computer to server) but I'm still hesitant as I have no way of verifying this claim.

Until, I  read a very good article of Glenn Fleishman, Macworld.com (Online backup services) and this how I finally solved my strategy.

1. Do not backup everything online

Choose only the important files.  Sometimes we thought that everything on our hard drive are precious but believe me when you start sorting every single files, you will end-up deleting most of them.  In my case I usually store a copy of program installers which I realize available online with the latest version.

2. Use compression software with file encryption

I decided to download a compression software to add extra layer of protection with my files.  Though, this is a bit of hassle when I need to restore my document.  Programs like WinRAR and WinZip are the best options for paid but I also recommend IZArc which is free and it does the job.

3. Password protect your files

If you're so paranoid (like me I guess) then you may also want to password protect your files.  MS-Office applications such as Word, Excel and Powerpoint are equip with this option.

4. Don't rely on your online backup

It is better to maintain the traditional way of securing your files.  Secondary hard drive, portable drives, USB and CD/DVD remains highly recommended.

5. Choose the right online backup provider

Think about securing your investment.  You need to investigate the company, you ask people, you read reviews then try them and pay monthly.  Being known and being in the business for a long period of time doesn't mean they are the best for you.

In my case, I need multiple computer support with no extra cost, with web access, AES-256 encryption and of course reasonable price.

Currently, I'm choosing between CrashPlan, IDrive, JungleDisk, MyOtherDrive and SugarSync.  I'll let you know in my next post which one I choose.