Online backup of your data is the best thing to happen to computer users in quite a long time.
Companies like Mozy, Carbonite, and SugarSync automate the process of backing up your computer and then stores your data at a remote location - the main 2 things you are trying to accomplish with a computer backup.
However, there are 2 things you have to get right from the start to have a successful data saving experience.
1.
Let the online backup company encrypt your data Do not choose your own encryption.
The company will generally will either let you choose your own encryption or they default to a standard encryption protocol.
Before your data ever leaves your device, it is protected once with 128 bit encryption, usually transmitted in that form, and when it is stored on the other end, it is translated into Blowfish encryption or similar, where it is stored.
(which is very good!) If you choose your own encryption, only you will have the key to unlock your data.
That is a good thing and a bad thing.
The good thing about it is it is supersecure.
The bad thing is you could lose the key and your data would be un-unlockable.
No one would be able to get at it.
Unless you are a spy, it's probably safest to leave the encryption to the online backup storage company.
2.
Don't get complacent Make sure your all the data you want stored, actually is getting stored.
With online backup, there is typically no alarm that will go off to say a file you thought was stored isn't being stored.
You have to physically go in and check yourself.
With Carbonite for example, if any files are larger than 2 GB, they won't automatically get stored even if they are in your documents file.
In conclusion, online backup is approaching sliced bread in its revolutionary, game-changing nature.
However, you must still check to make sure what you think is happening is actually happening.
With a little diligence and paying attention to the details, you will insure that you get your money's worth through your online backup experience.