As for what to backup to, we typically recommend more than one external, Firewire (or if need be, USB) hard drive. This comes down to a simple matter of cost, and how much data is ballooning in size - due to photos, home movies, music (mp3s). It's important to use more than one (drives can fail, including external ones), and you'll want to think about storing at least one copy somewhere other than home or your office, offsite from the location of your computer.

As for how to backup (schedule automated backps), if you purchase a LaCie drive
it comes with SilverKeeper, which is functional and works well for many people's needs.

If you've tried SilverKeeper and not been happy with it, then we'd suggest
you purchase "SuperDuper!" which is another very good piece of software.

Please contact us to help you get a backup strategy in place and put to use. We can help you tailor your backup to your needs, and help ensure your plan is consistent with your intentions.