Bulletproof Backup Strategies from the Tech Guys: Protect Your Data in 2024
AI created, human edited.
In the latest episode of the Ask The Tech Guys podcast, hosts Leo Laporte and Mikah Sargent tackled a topic near and dear to every computer user: backing up their precious data. The discussion was sparked by viewer Martin in Quebec, who sought advice on replacing his trusty Drobo device, which safeguards eight family computers.
The Death of Drobo
Martin's dilemma will feel familiar to many: that sinking feeling when a once-reliable backup solution goes belly up. In this case, the Drobo, a long-time favorite of Leo's, unfortunately met its demise when the company behind it went under. The challenge now? Finding a robust replacement to protect the digital lives of Martin's entire family.
The Holy Backup Trinity: NAS, Cloud, and SSD
Leo and Mikah wasted no time researching the top contenders for Drobo's throne. They recommend a three-pronged approach combining network-attached storage (NAS), cloud backup, and high-capacity external SSDs.
For the NAS option, the Tech Guys sang the praises of Synology devices, which offer ample storage and handy features like built-in Plex media server capabilities. The upfront cost may be higher than a simple external drive, but the peace of mind is priceless.
Cloud backup services like Backblaze also earned high marks for their simplicity and reliability. With a set-it-and-forget-it model, Backblaze continuously protects your data in the background, making it an ideal choice for the less tech-savvy members of Martin's family.
We're rounding out the trifecta with high-capacity external SSDs, like those from Other World Computing. While not as feature-rich as a NAS or as effortless as the cloud, these drives offer speedy performance and easy portability for on-the-go backups.
The 3-2-1 Backup Rule
To tie it all together, Leo and Mikah emphasized the importance of following the 3-2-1 backup rule: keep at least three copies of your data on two different storage types, with one copy kept off-site. This approach ensures multiple avenues to recover your irreplaceable files, even if disaster strikes.
Leo wisely noted, "You can never have too many backups." By combining the strengths of NAS, cloud, and SSD solutions, you can create a near-bulletproof plan to safeguard your digital life.
College-bound with Peace of Mind
The backup wisdom didn't stop with Martin's plight. Jeremy from California chimed in, seeking guidance on protecting his daughter's data as she heads off to college with a shiny new MacBook. The ever-helpful Tech Guys duo suggested a two-pronged plan: use the Mac's built-in Time Machine software to back up to an external drive and supplement with a cloud service like Backblaze for off-site protection.
For added convenience, they recommended setting up a docking station in the dorm room. This would allow Jeremy's daughter to effortlessly connect to a larger monitor, keyboard, mouse, and, of course, her backup drive. With this setup, she can work (and procrastinate) in comfort while Time Machine quietly works its magic in the background.
The Bottom Line
In a world where our lives are increasingly digital, a solid backup strategy is no longer a luxury - it's a necessity. As Ask The Tech Guys so aptly demonstrated, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. By combining the strengths of NAS, cloud, and external drives, you can create a personalized plan that fits your needs, budget, and technical know-how.
Because let's face it: the only thing worse than a failed hard drive is the sinking realization that your last backup was months (or years) ago. Don't let that happen to you - take a cue from Leo and Mikah and get your backup ducks in a row today.
Catch the full episode of Ask The Tech Guys for more tech wit and wisdom. In addition to backup brilliance, you'll hear about the latest AI controversies, Apple Podcasts on Google speakers, travel hacks from Johnny Jet, and so much more. Trust us - your brain (and your data) will thank you.
