TOPIC: Back Up

Look at it this way... Carbonite does the same thing everything else does, but their Mirror Image feature does a whole lot more. If you don't want the feature, don't get or use it. You still have all the control over what you want to do.

Every time you install or upgrade a program, you should run Belarc Advisor and print it out.  Free program that scans your computer and lists the hardware, programs and other information along with the product keys. Great if you lose a disk and have to download a new copy and install without buying again.

www.belarc.com/free_download.html

Dan, you can access the files on Carbonite one by one. They also have heavy virus scans running on their systems so they don't have infections to deal with.

I now use Acronis True Image to clone my system periodically and run routine backups.  I also use several external hard drives to copy important files, data, reports, photos, etc. so I have multiple sources of saved items like Dom recommends.

I've experienced a HD crash... it ain't pretty especially when the software you were using for backup is no longer supported, functional, or available (I didn't know at the time it had been sold and discontinued about 2 years prior).  The nice thing about Acronis True Image is you don't need the software to perform the restore.  Just the clone file from disc or ext. HD.  It restores your computer to original at time of backup including your Operating system.

I researched the online backups before making my decision... they only backup files... not your programs.

When you experience a complete HD crash it can put you 6+ months behind trying to recover fully with all software and data while trying to continue with business as usual.  It did me.  It can be VERY painful...

Bill,

It sound as if Acronis True Image is the counterpart of Carbonite Mirror Image. Either one, I would never do without again. I was on extensive travel with my business laptop last Winter when it was eaten alive by virus'es and Trojan's. I also have everything stored on Ext. HD.'s, but it does no good when 2,000 miles away. I lost everything, including everything HIP. I still haven't recovered from that loss.

So learn your lesson from Bill and I, don't wait too long. Get protected asap. Btw... the Carbonite w/MI is about $95/year. 

Good luck & good year!!!

That's good to know Dominic! 
I asked the question to a person I new starting a back-up company in Chicago similar to Carbonite, and he didn't have a good answer.  That's why I stuck with my own backup system. Now for the really important questions...why arent you speaking in Orlando this weekend instead?  I could have written off this trip, & hear your presentation!