I was looking at Carbonite- but found out it only backs up whats already stored on your harddrive not archieved files on (for example an external HD)- what method do you use to protect your files?
I use Mozy. It's $4.95 a month for unlimited storage. It backs up all 5 of my externals but they are hooked up to my computer all the time. You can select what you want backed up and it does it automatically. It shows up as a drive in Windows Explorer and you can restore anything you need to. It takes a while for the first backup. I had 495 gig to back up in the beginning and it took several weeks to get it all done but now it's a snap.
Once Mozy has it backed up and then you take it off your computer I think it retains the backup but you would need to check with their website or customer support to be sure on that because I'm not sure. If it is photos you are trying to backup you can also use other online avenues such as online hosting to upload your photos to. I have my photos on external, DVD and Mozy. I also have some uploaded to a host but those are only the ones I am sharing or for someones review.
I'm sure you'll get some other suggestions also. We'll all learn something here.
From the Mozy FAQ:
"If you delete a document and then run a backup, Mozy assumes that you no longer need a backup copy of that document, and marks the file to be removed from our system. (We keep it on file for 30 days, just in case you change your mind.) After 30 days, the file is deleted from our servers and you are no longer able to get it back."
Basically, you need to keep the files on-line of you want them to go to Mozy. It took me about 6 week to do the initial backup of 300 gb using a Fios internet service, which is "advertized" as 5 gb/s upload. The daily changes were no problem after that.
I have 2 x 1 TB drives and use a Vantec docking station. One drive is connected, the second is in a fireproof safe in the basement. I rotate them when I feel there is enugh of a difference between the live disk and the one in the safe. I had considered using a safe deposit box at the local bank but never persued it. The drive would not fit in the smallest box and the next size up was not available at the time.
Also, the $5 Mozy subscription is for home use not profesional use. I do not know if that means pro's are not supposed to use it or that you simply cannot get the added value services of the pro subscription (I do not know what they are)
For not alot more you can get a shared web server that has unlimited transfer and storage... I have used acehost for years and never had any problems whatsoever... then you can not only store what you want but you can link to there or host your website at the same time same money... only bad part is you have to manually upload items (no automatic mirroring).
I also once a year send a DL DVD to my father in case of dual catastrophy...
The usefulness of a web server is entirely dependent on your state of mind For me at this point I have no interest in "managing" the backup process. I want it to be as mindless a process as possible so I can focus on photography, etc. It certainly is a viable option.
i use mozy as well. first backup takes a while, but after that it's fine. only works on HDDs. once you delete it from your HD it keeps it for a while, but then deletes it.
most important thing is that it is "set it and forget it" so you can't forget to back stuff up
I use Carbonite. It can back anything up that has a drive letter on your PC. It has unlimited storage -- I was dubious about this, but after crossing the 200gb threshold I guess it really is unlimited.
What I like best about Carbonite is that it is a completely hidden process, it "just happens" -- so friendly in fact I set it up for my non-technical wife. Can't say enough good about it. Should be able to handle your external drives, just leave them on with a drive letter attached (or maybe try mapping your network drive so it has a drive letter).
For me at this point I have no interest in "managing" the backup process. I want it to be as mindless a process as possible so I can focus on photography, etc. It certainly is a viable option.