Removable storage is becoming a common way to back up important data and transport files without the need for CD's or DVD's. The type of removable storage you choose depends on your needs and the task you want to perform.

Removable Hard Drives

Removable hard drives are a very good option if you want to back up large amounts of data. There are a number of different types of removable hard drives and they are commonly found in both external and internal styles. One of the most common reasons for choosing a removable hard drive, is that you can get the drives in large capacities to enable you to perform backups of critical data and carry it off site for storage.

Thumb Drives

Thumb drives are small hard drives that look a bit like a lip stick tube typically with a USB connector on the end. Current Thumb drives are available in capacities up to 2 GB. While 2 GB is a large storage capacity given the small size of a thumb drive and can store a number of personal files, photos and MP3s, thumb drives do not currently have the capacity required to be a viable backup solution for most users.

Tape Drives

Tape drives are a old and reliable way to back up large quantities of data. Tape drives are used in business commonly from the small office to large enterprises. Typically, tape drives are internal systems built into server computers and once the data back up is complete, the tape can be stored for use in the event of data loss. There are multiple types and formats for tapes.

CD Burners

A CD burner can be used to back up smaller quantities of data that don't exceed 700 MB. With the availability of smaller and easier to use thumb drives of much higher capacities, CD burners are not the best option for backing up data. However, CD's are commonly used to back up music collections because of their ability to be played in most CD players.

DVD Burners

A DVD burner can store data on a DVD of up to 4.7 GB on a single layer disk or 8.5 GB on a dual layer DVD. Dual layer DVD's require special dual layer DVD burners. DVD's are commonly used to back up smaller amounts of data. Using a DVD to back up data tend to be more involved than using a tape system. A DVD is also commonly used to back up video data.