In today’s digital age, keeping your online presence functional at all times is critical. Unfortunately, at any given time you can lose your entire work without warning. This is why it is vital to back up your files as much as possible. This guide will show you some of the best practices to ensure your files stay safe. In case of an emergency, you can easily regain control and be back online in little to no time.
The number one rule of thumb when it comes to backups is to maintain multiple copies taken at different times. This is essential because even the slightest change to a file could corrupt your entire site. By backing up your data in different date sequences, you can alleviate any potential problems with a simple restore from the day before.
The second rule you should always follow is maintaining backup files at different locations. While it is unlikely that all of your machines will fail at the same time, it is still possible. This is why it is essential to keep your backups on your local computer, on an external source such as DVD or Micro SD card, and online. You must be extra cautious when you keep copies on your local computer, because there is always a risk of someone gaining access to the files that should not have access.
Even more important, if you are working with financial data or personal information you should find an encryption method to protect them. Also, be sure to keep your external media in a fireproof safe, or other secure location. As for your internet backup, choose a service that offers multiple layers of security.
Depending on the website software you use, you may be able to create back up files automatically at incremental times. Some software has simple plugins or extensions you can turn on. Just research online to find out what is available to help you.
If you find that there are no tools specifically for your needs, you could look to your hosting provider for a solution. Often times the web host will offer redundancy data services for a small fee. This means that they will keep multiple copies of your data on separate hard drives at all times. This can lead to faster access to your site as well, so it is definitely worth looking into.
One of the most important files to keep track of is the .htaccess file. This file has vital information about who has permission to access your files, as well as other important details. If you only have the choice to backup one file, make sure that it is this one. Most importantly, any time you plan to make a change to your site, be sure to create a backup of your htaccess file.
Whenever you create backups, keep a record of the date and time of the backup. This will make restorations much easier, as you can find your most recent files more quickly. It also helps you to reduce wasted space, because you can remove the oldest backup files when they become obsolete.
It is incredibly easy to lose your entire project in an instant. To prevent a total loss of the work you have spent months constructing, be sure to take the extra steps to create backup files. This will save you countless hours and ultimately save you a huge sum of money.