Laptop Data Protection for Students

The following tips can help students best protect their laptops as well as the critical data on them:

Back Up, Back Up, Back Up - Even if you have a monster hard drive, make secondary backups of your data using a DVD, external dive, flash drives, or another medium. It is recommended that you back up at least once a week to ensure that important files are up to date.

Test Backups Periodically - It is crucial to verify all your backups to make sure that your important files, photos and music are available when needed.

Virus Prevention - Computer viruses are one of the worst enemies of the computer. Make sure to run a virus scan and update it regularly. In addition, beware of spyware, a common problem brought about by Web surfing and downloads that can cause complications with your computer’s efficiency. There are several programs available on the Internet that assist with removal of these programs.

Monitor Your Computer’s Health - Don’t wait for your computer to break down to take precautions because you’ll risk losing your data. Most quality diagnostic programs can be used to both diagnose current problems and/or as part of a regular maintenance program to identify potential problems that could lead to data loss. If your computer makes a strange noise or grinding sound, there is most likely a mechanical error with your drive. Turn off the computer immediately and call an expert. Further operation may damage the hard drive beyond repair.

Be Kind to Media - Storage media is small and fragile, so keep it stored in a closed (zippered) compartment that will also protect it from bending, flexing or crushing (i.e. your back pants pocket is not a good place to hold extra storage!)

A Home for the Computer - Ensure your computer is set up/stored in a clean, dust-free environment and be careful not to have beverages close by. Placing your computer in a low-traffic area will protect your system from harmful jarring, bumping and spills – a very common way of losing data.

Transport Carefully - When laptops are docked, moved or transported, the greatest of care should be taken to prevent unnecessary shock or impact. As a student, you should use a sturdy, well padded laptop bag. Using just a backpack may not provide the protection a laptop needs during transportation.

Consider Data Recovery - It is important to know that if something does go wrong and you experience data loss, don’t give up hope. Simply turn off your computer and let a professional deal with the problem.