Quick question: Have you backed up your small business computer files today? This month? Ever?

If the answer is no, you’re putting hours and even years of hard work at risk of being damaged or lost entirely due to a computer malfunction, power failure or other unforeseen problem.

Central Maine SCORE mentor Robert Kennelly says, “Remember this warning: All hard drives eventually die. Damaged or lost data files have cost many small or home-based businesses weeks, months or even years of work.”

It can happen for many reasons. Suddenly your hard drive starts making grinding noises and stops working. Or perhaps your laptop may be stolen. Maybe you just simply push a wrong button. Computer viruses can make files vanish.

Kennelly advises that “having backup files available in the event of trouble could be the difference between staying open or having to shut down your business.”

There are several ways to back up files. One simple method is to copy or “burn” your files to CDs. This works if you don’t have large amounts of data to protect. Another way is to keep a secondary computer or external hard drive around to serve as your backup center.

A newer option is to use a service that lets you back up your data over the Internet. One of those services available is Carbonite, a branch of which is now part of the L-A business community. Whichever method or combination you use, the key is to make certain at least one set of files is kept in a secure location.

Develop a specific backup plan by first deciding which files are critical, then choosing your backup method. Perform a full backup at least once a week, but send the most critical data daily to a device or service. Test the backup files at least quarterly.

You can find a wide range of products designed to help busy, small-business owners safeguard data: including Hewlett-Packard at www.hp.com, Symantec at www.symantec.com, and Imation at www.imation.com.

To learn more about operating your small business, contact Central Maine SCORE at 782-3708 or [email protected], or contact the Auburn Public Library for an appointment with a volunteer mentor. In Oxford Hills call 743-0499; in Rumford-Mexico call 364-3123. Or contact SCORE at www.SCOREmaine.org.

This column is provided by the Central Maine SCORE chapter.