Are You Overlooking Email Backup?

Most computer home users and businesses know the importance of backing up critical or irreplaceable digital files whether it’s a text file, digital photo, or Power Point presentation. Computer viruses, natural disasters, fire, theft, or even human user error can potentially wipe out an entire hard drive in the blink of an eye. Data backup methods allow digital files to be quickly restored should something ever happen to the originals. But there’s one important thing many users neglect to backup: email.  

The general rule of thumb when it comes to data backup is to back up anything on your computer that would be difficult or downright impossible to replace or restore. If you use a local email client instead of a web-based service (such as Microsoft Outlook) this includes several email components such as your address book, attachments, important settings, and the email bodies themselves.

There are a variety of ways to perform an email backup and the one you choose typically depends on your preference. While some email clients offer a built-in backup solution as part of their service, many people opt for other methods including external media. One of the most popular methods is online backup. An easy-to-use and affordable solution, most online backup services are fully automated. Users simply select the files and documents they want backed up and determine a backup schedule (e.g. hourly, daily, etc.). The program will then perform the backups when the computer is in sleep or standby mode so it does not interfere with regular use.

For businesses and home users who rely heavily on email communication, a robust email backup solution could make all the difference if your hard drive is ever damaged or destroyed.