While I dont want to get into semantics, I think this is a great lesson for folks who think they are in ok shape, so here are a couple definitions of backups:
Computers.
a. a copy or duplicate version, esp. of a file, program, or entire computer system, retained for use in the event that the original is in some way rendered unusable.
b. a procedure to follow in such an event.
Computer Science
A copy of a program or file that is stored separately from the original.
Now, having a second copy is indeed a form of backup, however, in the real world, simply having a second copy that is kept in the same location as the original does not really constitute a backup.
In the first one, it says a backup is there if the original is rendered unusable. In the second it states its stored separately from the original.
While having a second copy of a file on a separate hdd is a simple form of backup if one of those hdds goes unusable, but what if the computer gets a virus and corrupts everything connected to it? What if you have a break in and they steal all your computer stuff? What if there is a fire that destroys the computer room/office? What if someone has access to the computer and accidentally erases or damages the system?
A true backup, and something we should all have if we care about our photos, is something where, at a minimum, you have a couple of copies with at least one copy nowhere near the machine in case of some kind of catastrophic failure or screw up at the machine.
I feel terrible for the guy and hopefully both him and his wife learned their lessons. It also took me several years to figure this out that just having a second copy is not enough to really be safe.
Get something that is not near or connected to your computer. I know its more of a pain than simply having a second hdd, but its what you need to truly be safe. HDDs are cheap and it doesnt make sense not to have at least three copies of everything that will truly be a backup.
