Tell me the right choice

[h_kunte]

Friends,

My PC suffered a disk crash a couple of days ago due to a virus which corrupted a few DLLs. As a result of which, I lost ALL my data.

To make sure that this doesnt happen again, I have decided to go in for adding a back-up solution for all my future data. For this I have 3 options:

1. Adding another HDD ( 80 GB @ Rs. 2800) to my PC.
2. Buying an external HDD (80 GB available for Rs. 4600 here)
3. Buying a DVD writer (Double layer enabled for Rs. 3500...Dont know other details)

I want to know, which of the following shall be the best option? Plz also keep in mind that I do NOT want a very costly solution, so the external HDD is almost out of question, although its utilities & convenience are definite plus points.

Looking for suggestions. Thanx a lot in advance.

[ishaan]

i think another normal HDD will be fine for you...but if u can spend more, go for the external.

[siriusb]

You can avoid all cost just by following some security measures and prevent virii/spyware, etc. Just install a free antivirus and firewall to ward off most other threats that could creep by accidentally.
But in case you are also concerned about other crashes (hdd, for example), you could opt in for a secondary disk and raid-1(mirroring) it. You may need a raid controller which most computers nowadays come with onboard or buy a cheap card (around 1000).
If not all your data is important, or if u don't need live backup, then buy a smaller hdd and backup on to it periodically.
External hdd may be helpful only if u want to port your data from office to home easily, or if u don't have extra ide slot available.

[h_kunte]

Hey!

Thanx for the prompt replies.
Why dont u ppl say anything about a DVD writer...Isnt that a good option? Also, I will have portable data which shall be much more convenient...Another HDD is the cheapest option, but still I am now finding myself getting more inclined towards a DVD writer....

[ishaan]

dvd writer...takes a long time 2 burn em...each dvd costs money...DVDRW not compatible everywhere...usually not plug n play u hav to install drivers wherever u wanna use it

external HDD...much faster transfers...plug n play...portable...

but a plus for dvd is that u can burn movies n play in ur normal dvd player

[royal]

external hdd... 8)

dont even think beyond it

[goobimama]

I suggest the external HDD. It would be better to go in for a 2.5 inch HDD as these are less prone to damage and are more portable. They also don't require the power cables and adapter and all that whatnot.

For really important text files and such, you could do a daily online backup system in Gmail or something like that.