If you have used a computer within the past ten years, you have undoubtedly had a run in with data loss. Whether you had a power outage, a computer crash, or you just lost track of a file all together; there are many ways you can ensure you don’t lose that big project or those cherished photos. Read some of our suggestions below to find a solution that will work for you!
 
1. USB
A USB drive, sometimes referred to as a thumb drive or jump drive, is a small portable device that allows you to store files. Because of its compact size, it also makes it really easy to share files with others. They are very easy to operate, affordable, and easy to come by. Some even offer data protection that require a password to get into the files.
 
Cons: Although these are a convenient option, their size can make them easy to lose and you can’t store as much on them as some of the other options on this list.
 
2. External Hard Drive
An external hard drive, or disk drive, is an option you might want to consider if you need a lot of storage space. It has many of the same perks of a USB, being portable and easy to use, but also packs a punch on storage space. There are many different things to consider when choosing an external hard drive that will work for you including size, speed, and connection type.
 
Cons: Some external hard drives are very easily damaged, so they aren’t as portable as some of the other options on this list and need to be handled very carefully.
 
3. Use Time Machine
This storage solution is something only available on Macs. It is built into your computer and requires the purchase of an external drive that support it. Time Machine backs up your files hourly for the previous 24 hours, daily for the past month, and weekly for all previous months. This means that your data is being saving in real time without you having to do anything. Once it is set up and running you don’t have to worry about it.
 
Cons: You have to use a Mac and you must also purchase either Apple’s Time Capsule or a compatible external hard drive in order for it to work.
 
4. Cloud Storage
Cloud storage can work for anyone and is a very flexible option. Once you back up your data to cloud storage it can be accessed from anywhere. This means you or your team, can access files no matter where you are and work together in real time. You can also give clients access to specific files or folders. Having your data backed up someplace other than in your physical office location protects you against things like flood or fire. If your physical data solutions get destroyed, you can recover everything from the cloud.
 
Cons: To access your data, you need a reliable internet connection. Most of the time this isn’t a problem, but if you are traveling or there is a weather emergency, it could become difficult to access your data.
 
5. Subscribe to a Backup Service
A backup service subscription works by paying a monthly fee and then it automatically uploads new files to its online servers. Some of them then offer different ways for you to get your data back. You can do an online restore where you download just a couple files you may have misplaced, or you can get an external hard drive with all of your files loaded on it shipped directly to you. There is no file management system like a cloud storage system, but it protects your data by having it stored in another location, the same way cloud storage does.
 
Cons: If you lose all of your data, you have to wait for your files to be shipped to you and there is a monthly fee associated with these services.
 
All of these options can be great to help keep your files protected, but in most cases it is recommended that you use more than one type of backup for important data. You can never be too safe when it comes to the protection of your important documents. If you have questions about which type of data solution is best for you, give us a call to set up a meeting so we can help assess your needs and find the best fit for you.

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Is your computer slowing you down? Are you wasting time waiting for your computer to load websites, sorting through error messages or downloading program updates? It can be frustrating to navigate computer issues but here are 5 signs it's time for a computer clean up!

1. Error Messages: It's easy to ignore these but your computer may know something's wrong. Those pop-up messages about missing application or system files could be a sign of something far worse. . . a virus. 
2. Screen Freezing & Unexpected Crashes: If you're having to restart your computer on a regular basis, something is wrong. Don't wait until your computer doesn't turn back on, get it checked out now!
3. Slower Internet & Processing: This can seem like an issue caused by your internet service provider but if the entire office isn't affected, your computer may be the cause. Use a speed test to verify your internet speed.Use your task manager to take a look at your processing speed. If either seem slow, it's time to find out why.
4. Missing or Extra Files: It's important to keep track of your hard drive size. A virus may install unwanted files or copies of itself. Or worse, begin to delete files. If something seems strange, it's time to run a few scans & tests to determine the issue.
5. Advertisements Everywhere: Seeing advertisements while you are browsing the internet is not uncommon, but are you seeing them when your browser is closed? Don't open or click on these ads! These can be the start of a serious problem. Run an antivirus scan using your own software, not using ads that may be popping up.  

Experiencing one or more of these issues & not sure where to start? Wondering if you're antivirus software if up to date or effective? Contact us for all your IT needs & let us save you time & money!

Berry Digital Solutions is proud to announce their new partnership with Your Hometown Techs to offer the you the best service when it comes to your computers, tablets, phones, and other digital devices!  Shawn Suter prides himself on being able to provide exceptional service and technological knowledge to our community at an affordable price. 

Your Hometown Techs will offer residential services in your home or you can drop off devices at their new location inside The Spotted Cow Coffeehouse on the north side of Urbana. Your Hometown Techs also offers flat rate IT support for small businesses.

Ryan Berry, co-owner of Berry Digital Solutions, is excited to partner with Your Hometown Techs, adding "Shawn Suter is a man of all digital trades.  Not only can he dig deep into computer or networking issues, but he can also create video content and be a vital part of a business' brainstorming session.  He has already become a crucial part of the Berry Digital Solutions team!"

Are you in need of service for your computer, printer, network, tablet, phone, smart TV, smart home, etc?
​There are two convenient options available to clients in need of digital repair and maintenance services:

1. Your Hometown Techs will come to you.  No need to mess with cords, packing and transporting devices. Shawn will help you with all of your needs, right in your home, without any additional charge!
2. OR you can utilize 1 of our 2 drop-off locations.  Simply drop-off your device, and Shawn will call you when he has everything ready for you to pick-up!  You can drop-off your items at​ The Spotted Cow Coffeehouse, located at 927 North Main St. in Urbana, or at the Berry Digital Solutions office in downtown Urbana office at 3 Monument Square (between The People's Savings Bank and Security National Bank). ​

Do you feel like your marketing dollars are being wasted year after year and find it difficult to know if your marketing strategies are effective? Business owners are often overwhelmed by the ever expanding world of digital marketing and it can be frustrating to wonder whether or not your hard earned dollars are making an impact. Your website should be the most powerful marketing tool you possess, with the potential to take your business to the next level. Using localized SEO services, constant site reviews and campaigns designed to drive traffic to your website, you can be confident that your small business will be ready to compete with big business. Not all websites are created equal and we want to help yours succeed! If your website isn't working for you or the world of digital marketing drives you crazy, let us at Berry Digital Solutions manage your digital world while you focus on your business. We'd love to buy you a coffee and learn more about your business and how we can support you.