>>>>One thing I know for sure is this will never happen again, and then I won't have to worry about such decisions. There are going to be multiple forms of backup, including DVDs (Ghost) and offsite storage in the event of fire or burglary.
>>>
>>>There are only 2 types of people:
>>>
>>>- True Believers in backup
>>>- Those who are about to become True Believers
>>>
>>>;-)
>>
>>The disappointing part is I already was a true believer, running an automated backup program every night. What I have learned is my approach was not sophisticated enough, with enough layers of redundancy.
>>
>>All I want to do is use the PC, not have an extra hat on my desk to play security administrator all the time. Sadly, no longer possible.
>
>I have a very simple approach. I use an external USB Seagate drive once a week for backups. I use Acronis for that. Incremental backups each week, with a full backup once a month. The only time the backup drive is connected is when I'm backing up. I only do that when I'm not connected to the internet, I've just run a full AVG scan and rebooted. It's not perfect, but it seems to work pretty well so far. I also store work-related files on a server at a remote location, so there is redundancy there.
>
>I haven't read the entire thread, but have you looked into any recovery services or utilities?


Funny you mention that. The thought occurred to me yesterday that I should be keeping the external backup drive disconnected except when it is in use. I have liked having the backup program run unattended in the middle of the night, so I don't have to remember to do it (other than when it's time for a full backup) and don't have to take the same manual steps endlessly. But after this experience I am willing to adjust.

Yes, I have looked into recovery services. The backup drive is at a local company that does that and I am expecting a callback this morning saying what, if anything, they can recover from it. The early indication from the technician yesterday afternoon, after a few minutes of a scan he said would run for close to 5 hours, was promising. Not that I want to get my hopes up too far yet.