Offsite backups for the rest of us?

[Henry Spencer]

On Mon, 11 Apr 2005, John Vetterli wrote:
> Just wondering: would keeping CDs and DVDs in a fireproof strongbox keep 
> your data safe and readable if there was a major fire?

Yes and no and maybe.  Remember that (a) a fireproof box will typically be
rated fireproof only for a specific length of time, and (b) the ratings
are based on damage to paper, and backup media may be less heat-resistant. 

Such a box is lots better than just keeping them in a drawer, but just how
good it is will depend on how quickly the fire is put out.  Also on where
the box is kept -- in a corner of the basement(*) under a sandbag is a lot
better than in a second-floor closet.

(* But make sure the box is waterproof or the media are in zip-lock bags,
preferably both. )

                                                          Henry Spencer
                                                       henry-lqW1N6Cllo0sV2N9l4h3zg at public.gmane.org

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