The Dell Latitude and other Dell laptops are popular with computer enthusiasts for their sturdiness and economic price point. Unlike other cheap laptops like the Dell Latitude series are built to last. Because of this, PC aficionados have found another handy purpose for Dell laptops: backups and disaster recovery. The Dell Latitude is a leader among cheap laptops for savvy users who need an economical, easily-accessible way to back up and secure data and applications.
Older Dell laptops to use for backup and recovery can be found at low prices through online auctions and aftermarket sources that trade in cheap laptops, spare parts and rare computer accessories. Once purchased, there are three key areas of backup and disaster recovery where the Dell Latitude and other Dell laptops shine.
Using cheap laptops to back up data
Dell laptops come with storage to back up key data like spreadsheets, email, documents, music and more. As an example, the Dell Latitude D410 comes standard with a 40GB drive. With a minimal Windows install, this leaves plenty of room for backup of crucial documents. Larger hard drives can be purchased inexpensively in the aftermarket that can increase this storage space even more. Once the laptops has been set up with an operating system, important files can be moved to the hard drive with a USB key or external hard disk. For even easier file moves, Dell laptops can be connected to the home network for effortless file copying with no need to connect and disconnect USB drives. Users can update the files on the laptop as needed.
Duplicate apps
Computer users who need a more robust method of backup can install their existing applications on their Dell laptops instead of just copying data. This will mean a fully functional duplicate system for total data safety. If the primary desktop or laptop crashes, the laptop, with all important applications and data installed, can quickly replace the primary system until it is repaired. Just about every application's license allows this type of dual use in the same household, so using cheap laptops for a total backup solution is useful and legal.
Recovery
What is the primary computer has crashed and the data has not been copied to the Dell laptops. Fortunately, cheap laptops can still be used in recovery. IDE-to-USB and SATA-to-USB adapters are readily available through computer shops, so users can connect the hard drive from the broken computer to the Dell Latitude's USB port easily. From there, the laptop can be used to pull data from the old hard drive, to be moved later when a new primary computer is purchased.
|
