Online backups encrypt (up to 448-bit) your data before transferring it to remote server. Most backup servers are housed in secure locations with security guards, generators and latest state-of-the-art security technology.

4. Inexpensive. Online backups give you more “bang for buck.” Setting up a traditional data protection plan requires software, hardware, media and man-hours necessary to set-up and protect your data on a daily basis. Online backups combine all of these functions in one easy service for a low monthly or annual fee.

The cost? If you or your staff spends as little as 10 minutes per day running a tape backup or burning a CD, figure just cost of labor at about $100 per month. Add on top of that, cost of CDs, or tapes and you're spending 4 or 5 times cost of average online backup fee, which requires “no time” daily once your initial setup is done. You can start an online backup account for as little at $5 - $15 per month.

5. Quick File Restores. In event you need to restore your lost data, you simply select applicable files or volumes and with a click of mouse all of your data is transferred to its original location. Your data is ALWAYS available 24 hours a day – 7 days a week. You can recover a single file or all of your files in a matter of minutes.

6. Peace of Mind. Knowing that your data is safe, secure and always available is enough reason to check out an online backup solution.

7. The Alternatives. You can’t afford alternatives! Computer users spend millions of dollars annually to recover lost data. The data recovery industry is HUGE and continues to grow. Assuming that your data is even recoverable - expect it to be an expensive and time consuming ordeal. Obviously, it is best to be prepared in first place.

4. Back up your computer's hard drive. Make duplicate copies of your files and store them in two separate locations such as a deposit box or home of a relative. Find safe harbor for your data. The best solution would be an online data backup service (also known as remote backup or offsite backup). This will give you protection you need all year around.

5. Make an assessment of storage options for software and hardware equipment. Look for a central place in building or home. Ideal location has no windows. The major cause of damage to computer hardware and software will be from rain and wind. Broken doors and windows will allow wind with its rain and debris to blow through buildings. By moving computer equipment (i.e. monitors, CPUs, printers, keyboards) to protected locations and wrapping with plastic, chances of damage will be greatly reduced. Double wrap equipment in plastic garbage bags to reduce rain/water damage. If equipment is to be located directly on floor, take into consideration possible effects of flooding. Set items on a table. Place equipment on or in water resistant objects, such as garbage cans.

6. Unplug all equipment including computers networked to other computers. As a major storm begins to pummel area, chances of severe power fluctuations are very high as electrical transmission lines and power plants are affected. These power fluctuations can have serious consequences on any equipment left plugged in or turned on.

7. After storm. Be careful when reconnecting equipment to wall outlets and rebooting. If there is any indication that outlets, equipment or flooring has been exposed to water or moisture, wait until equipment is thoroughly dried out - that might mean waiting a few days. To save expensive equipment, test outlets by plugging in an inexpensive lamp first to make sure outlet is safe.