Ideally, you want to back up your workstation or server hard disks onto just one disk or tape cartridge, otherwise you'll need to hang around and change media or invest in an autochanger of some kind. Data compression helps here, but don't treat manufacturers' compression ratio claims as gospel. On a large network, you'll want software that can back up several servers and workstations running a variety of operating systems. Don't forget the restore side of the equation. You need to be able to locate files quickly and easily, and distinguish between multiple copies of the same files.
Disaster recovery is an increasingly popular option and one that's worth seeking out.
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