Backing up your data is critical whether you are a business or a home user. A majority of businesses have backup systems in place using expensive tape or optical systems. For most small businesses and home users these systems are too expensive and are not user-friendly. Simpler solutions are available.
If you do not have your data in at least three locations then it is not backed up. With the cost of external drives at or below that of bare drives, these offer the ability to store a second copy of your data very easily. In many cases newer external drives have either a single button to press or automatic software that schedules the backup. This is a great way to backup your files, but do not rely on this as your only backup.
The third location of your files should be located away from your home or business. There are several online solutions that offer very easy to use solutions at costs around $5 a month. For small businesses this may increase to $10-$20. Having a third location protects you from environmental impacts such as fire or flood