To ensure data safety, what is a recommended backup practice?

Backing up data to off-site locations and the cloud is a highly recommended practice because it provides a multi-layered approach to data security. This method safeguards against data loss due to various threats, such as hardware failure, natural disasters, theft, or cyberattacks. By utilizing off-site locations, which could include physical servers in different geographical areas, and cloud storage solutions, data is not only duplicated but also protected in environments that are not susceptible to local disruptions.

In addition to physical safeguards from different locations, cloud backup services often include advanced security features, such as encryption, which further protects the data from unauthorized access. This combination enhances data resilience, ensuring that even if one backup is compromised or lost, alternatives remain accessible.

The other options present less effective practices. Relying solely on a local computer for backups significantly increases the risk of data loss since if the device fails or gets damaged, the data may be irretrievable. Not backing up data at all exposes individuals and organizations to severe risks of losing vital information, which could lead to operational disruptions or financial setbacks. Lastly, backing up only once a year is inadequate, as it does not account for changes and data creation that occurs throughout the year, potentially resulting in the loss of critical updates or