The frequency of data loss has increased the demand for external and portable backup media of CDs and DVDs. But even these external backup media require careful handling and are not considered wholly reliable to save and store copied data. In other words, if a user backs up data on CD or DVD backup of the first backup may be required. Thus, generally CDs and DVDs are not described as suitable backup means.
Disadvantages
Limited Storage Space: Both CD and DVD are subject to the argument that they cannot be used as backup for primary and priority-based data. Further, even organisations prefer to use hard disks for backup instead of CDs and DVDs. DVDs have a storage capacity ranging from 3 GB to 4.75 GB while CDs possess a storage capacity of only 700 MB. This is highly limited in comparison to optical storage media and hard drives used by huge corporations.
Inexpensive: CDs and DVDs are cheap in the market costing only 50 p for each tape. This can be seen as an advantage but often works to the disadvantage of the user. It can be easily recycled in mass numbers and sold without warranty in the market. A user usually risks backing up data on recycled CDs. These tapes do not store data properly they contain residual data and have corrupted magnetic layering which shortens the functional lifespan of the tape. Thus, inexpensiveness does cost the user data loss in the long run.
Time and Energy Consumption: Backing up data on CDs and DVDs in not the ideal choice it is time-consuming and labour-intensive. In other words, these media are not open to automation and require manual backup. These backup devices are usually short-term storing only a limited amount of information. It indicates that these media cannot be used as backup devices in all situations. They cannot be used to back up large chunks of data in big business enterprises.
Targets of Data Loss: CDs and DVDs are sensitive to environmental conditions such as heat, light and humidity levels. Extreme weather conditions can distort the magnetic layering allowing for massive data losses. Thus, these devices do not make for good and reliable backup media. They are prone to hardware and software failures caused due to natural or man-made disasters flood, fire, hacking, theft and human error. In other words, portable storage media are vulnerable to the same risks as the data they are supposed to protect. Thus, users are often advised to use CDs and DVDs with caution.
But CDs and DVDs form primary backup devices for personal users, small business entities, museums and art galleries. They are basically used to back up old financial records, specific historical materials including market records. But, in such cases, the maintenance and handling of these portable storage media devices become important. Data protection becomes a necessity CD and DVD care is crucial. CDs and DVDs are fragile in nature and even a slight accidental movement or mishandling can cause data loss.
Suggestions
Maintenance
- The CD or DVD drives do not fall to the ground and develop a crack
- Does not brush or swipe any object on the DVD or CD surface causing any slight or deep scratches and marks
- Always ensure that the CD or DVD disks are kept/wrapped in heavy protective packaging to avoid scratches and burns
- It is recommended not to handle the CD/DVD with oily or sticky hands. It is important to handle the CD/DVD with gloved hands -- never pick CDs or DVDs with your palm in the middle i.e., avoid picking or handling CD/DVD with your palm facing the CD/DVD middle. A CD/DVD should be handled with clean fingertips.
- Ensure that you do not place the CD or DVD in a non-compliant drive. A CD/DVD will suffer tremendous damage if inputted in a different system drive.
- Remember to keep your CD/DVD in a cool and dry environment. This includes keeping it from exposure to heat, light and water. In short, keep your CD/DVD away from pets and any beverage and avoid mishandling it. Avoid tossing the storage media tapes in the sand throwing it on the floor.
- Never wipe the CD/DVD with bare hands. It is necessary to use a soft and dry tissue cloth or linen. Avoid leaving or keeping your CD/DVD in crowded and unclean spaces.
Data Interruption: A DVD/CD disc could become damaged or corrupted losing the ability to read and write data if it suffers from an interruption in the data stream when saving. Frequent interruptions in the data stream without the comfort of a buffer zone to control this defect could cause massive data damage.
But users purchase CDs and DVDs for usage as backup devices. They are mass-produced and, hence, are easily available and handy. They are affordable and do not require much knowledge about backup specifics. However, the option of backup depends fundamentally on the importance and size of the data/email file. Note: CDs and DVDs frequently suffer physical damage and can require Data Recovery services to restore the data which was backed up to this media.