We are so dependent on computers today that everything runs on them. And they are not always that stable, in fact with each new upgrade of an operating system, we have layer upon layer of programming on top of programs that had built in bugs. We probably should be losing sleep about it, but ever since we switched to calculators in the Math class we’ve started to trust that the computer is a reliable way to figure out the answers.
Our home phones, cell phones, cars, and laptops all have data on them that are important for our day-to-day lives. We can feel somewhat comforted that we don’t have to worry about running a nuclear power plant or water treatment system on the same computer used to download free music, and all the malware that comes with it!
My husband went for x-rays for an injury a few weeks ago and the x-rays were all digital. The hospital lost the data file, and unlike the old days where it’s all printed out, the only place they existed was on the computer. Fortunately, someone had a back up this time but imagine a medical clinic or hospital today with widespread computer failure. And what about our banking system? It’s 100% data dependent. Ever try to make a deposit when their computers are down?
What happens when computers that are responsible for VERY important functions fail? Well, you can have the Three Mile Island catastrophe, you can have entire communication systems shut down, laptops can explode on camera (when they are not supposed to), and offices can cease to operate.
IT Business Edge explored this idea in a bit more detail, and you can find that article below. Of course, the classic story and the award winner is when Bill Gates was in the middle of a presentation and his computer had the Blue Screen of Death! Beauty.
Bill Gates should have Selkie Software!
http://www.itbusinessedge.com/cm/community/features/guestopinions/blog/when-computers-go-bad/?cs=38945
If YOU ever have the Blue Screen of Death – of if you happen to be with Bill Gates the next time HE has the Blue Screen of Death – just make sure you have Selkie Rescue or Selkie Freedom with you. You’ll get your data off instantly and if you’re with a Microsoft employee you can show off your magic data recovery skills.
