Australians embrace data backup but knowledge gaps remain

A recent survey commissioned by Western Digital highlights significant trends in how Australians manage their personal data backup practices.

According to the research, 26% of Australian respondents still do not back up their data, despite increased reliance on digital information for personal and professional use. The survey conducted by Researchscape included 557 Australian respondents and was carried out over several weeks in February 2025.

While 74% of participants engage in data backup activities, either automatically or manually, the reasons prompting these precautions vary. The primary motives for backing up data include fear of losing important files (80%), freeing up device space (59%), and protection against cyber threats (37%).

Stefan Mandl, Vice President, Sales & Marketing for the APJ region at Western Digital, expressed approval of increased awareness about data protection. "It's fantastic to see more people recognizing the importance of protecting their data," Mandl stated. He also acknowledged World Backup Day as an opportunity to emphasise the significance of safeguarding personal data, especially since 48% of respondents have already suffered data loss due to various factors such as device failure or cyberattacks.

For those not backing up their personal data, the survey found that 41% cited a lack of knowledge on how to do so, 25% were constrained by storage space, and 29% felt the process was too time-consuming. The research further revealed that 62% of respondents would consider backing up their data more frequently if the process was made automatic and straightforward.

Western Digital advocates the 3-2-1 backup strategy as a reliable method for data protection. This approach involves maintaining three copies of data, saved on two different types of media, with one copy stored offsite, potentially in the cloud.

The survey also examined preferences for cloud storage, with 55% of Australian respondents relying on free cloud options. However, 39% reported running out of space within the last six months, and 52% upgraded to paid storage plans. Cost concerns are considerable, as 69% believe cloud storage is becoming more expensive, encouraging a move towards hybrid storage solutions combining cloud and local storage options.

An increasing number of Australians are diversifying their storage methods by integrating external hard drives and network-attached storage (NAS) with cloud services. A portion of respondents, 42%, are utilising external hard drives, while 11% have opted for NAS solutions. These external storage options provide a cost-effective means to complement cloud usage during rising costs, with devices offering capacities up to 26TB.

Western Digital continues to offer data storage solutions that cater to both consumers and businesses, aiming to simplify the backup process and address growing storage demands. Recent product offerings include expanded capacity across their portfolio, featuring a 26TB WD Red Pro CMR HDD designed for NAS environments and a suite of 26TB-based G-DRIVE and G-RAID external storage solutions.

The study underscores the rising awareness of data backup importance among Australians while also pointing out existing gaps in practice and knowledge. Western Digital's initiatives aim to bridge these gaps by providing accessible and efficient storage solutions.