That's the way it works for PC users. Despite what MacIntosh users say it happens to everyone, and with the same results. The biggest difference is that instead of hitting the reset button they get out the paper clip. Well, you can't do a whole lot about stopping your machine from freezing, but there is something you can do: Back it up! Performing frequent backups doesn't have to be painful and tiresome, and there are several options.
You could go out and buy a tape backup system. Most users would probably require custom installation -- we'd certainly advise it if you want it done right. Go someplace reputable. But if you're not willing to dish out that kind of money, there are some less expensive, even low-tech options.
CDs. Except for the newest DVD recorders, there are plenty of reasonably priced CD-Recordable and CD-Rewritable drives that are easy enough to install. Each offers 650 megabytes (MB) of space. They also double as CD-ROM drives. CD-ROM, CD-R, CDRW, what's the difference? A CD-ROM drive only reads information from CDs. A CD-Recordable drive uses special "blank" CDs and, through the use of a laser, permanently creates CDs that can be used in any CD-ROM drive. CD-Rewriters use a laser to activate a dye embedded in the disc, which can be changed later on. Blank CD-Rs are inexpensive, even cheaper when you buy them by the "spindle". CD-Rewritable discs are a little more expensive but well worth it for the convenience. However, you will need to get the drive installed properly and the unit may not even come with the proper software.
ZIP disks. Iomega is the name of the company that produces the ZIP series of removable storage. These are less expensive than their CD counterparts, but typically offer less storage space. However, they're a breeze to install, and everything you need comes with the kit. You can even get an external version that you can take between home and work. Iomega also supports both PC and Mac machines. ZIP disks hold 100 or 250 MB and start at $17 per disk.
The Floppy Disk. Speaking of disks, let's not overlook the trusty floppy disk. Although they hold a mere 1.44 MB of data, they're cheap (until AOL started distributing their stuff on CDs I got my free supply from them), and easy to move, delete, and overwrite files with nothing more than your operating system. Unless you're in the business of creating beautiful electronic art pieces, enormous spreadsheets, or lengthy documents, you probably won't need more.
