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Using external hard drive(networkable) as an Off-site Backup option

Hi all,

I back up to a dual layer DVD daily for the purpose of off-site backup. Lately, data is too big to fit even in a dual layer DVD.

I am thinking of getting an external Hard Drive(networkable) to use for off-site back up and stop using DVDs.

This external hard drive - LinkStation Network Storage Center - 160GB from Buffalo has good reviews.
http://www.buffalo-technology.com/products/product-detail.php?productid=71&categoryid=31

Researched links:
http://www.pcworld.com/reviews/article/0,aid,125072,00.asp
http://www.pricegrabber.com/rating_getprodrev.php/masterid=3184246/id_type=masterid

I plan to carry the external hard drive with me for off site back up.

Bottom line:
I want a reliable off site back up method.

My main quesion:
Do you suggest to use external hard drives and not use DVD for off site back ups ?

Any pointers will be appreciated.

Thanks,
Sherap

SOLUTION

IPKON_Networks

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S T

ASKER

I cannot use internet based storage because our network is not connected to the internet. It is a closed network.

I do have an on site back up.

I want to be prepared for the worst case scenario and hence a reliable off site back up. This is an external hard drive which could be carried off site just like DVD and tapes. Also it costs under $200.

Thanks.

S T

ASKER

Somebody also recommended constructing a RAID array but I dont understand how to configure it with an External Hard Drive ??

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camillemarlow

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rindi

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ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

Gary Case

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S T

ASKER

garycase,
The device you suggested is USB. I tried USB but data transfer is too slow compared to ethernet, hence my desire for the Buffalo NAS device. But if the speed is up to mark, maybe I should get two of the Western Digital Passports you recommended.

camillemarlow,
Tape is not an option. We dont have tape drives nor do we want to use them.

rindi,
I will continue using DVDs even if more than 1 DVD is needed to store off site.

It boils down to whether continue using DVD's or use external hard drive. I still need to research more.

Please throw in any more ideas.

I have split points with all of you.

Thanks everyone.

rindi

If you are using USB 1, then the throughput would be slow, but with a PCI USB 2 adapter you could easily increase the spead, and these are cheap.

Gary Case

A pair of the WD Passport drives would seem ideal for what you've indicated you need here. If USB seemed too slow, you most likely were (as rindi noted) using a USB v1.1 data rate ==> if you upgraded the system with an inexpensive USB 2.0 card I don't think you'd be disappointed in the transfer speeds. A pair of Passports and this card would work very nicely:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16815124008