Should I use automated software to backup my important files?

The answer to this one is Yes and No. Yes you can use automation if you have other copies of your data, however you need to use absolute care when using automation to backup your data. If you only retain your data on an automated backup and your files become corrupt, you can quickly lose all of your information once that automated backup triggers. It is highly recommended for the most important information have a RAID backup running (this will provide you with the automation) while backing up your personal and important files manually as needed. This does not include the backup of your Operating System, we always suggest to have a backup of your Operating System on an automated schedule.