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Back up Important Files

It's always best to expect the unexpected. No matter how careful you are with your computer, there's a chance that something will happen causing you to lose some or all of your data. The best way to protect yourself is to make it a habit to regularly back up your files and store them safely in a location away from your computer, preferably off-site. Backing up files can be tedious, but the first time you need to recover something important, you'll be glad you took the time to do it. Here are the points to consider:

  • Store backup copies in a secure location away from your computer in a fireproof safe or off-site. If you don't, an unexpected event like a fire or flood could wipe out both your computer and backup files.

  • The more important the data, the more they need to be backed up.

  • For critical files, make more than one backup. Be sure to note the dates you made each backup, so that you can track the changes since you first created the files.

  • Back up your system and important files before making any major system changes, such as installing new hardware or a new version of your operating system.

  • For saving programs and other system files, use a backup utility. Some operating systems come with a built-in backup program, and there are also a number of excellent third-party backup programs available as well.

  • Make system backups regularly - once per week or once every other week is usually sufficient.

  • Test the backups by having the software verify them. To get help with this operation and for more information on performing backups and the utility programs available for different types of computers, go to the OIT Help Desk and search on backups.


computer graphic

Quick Tips

Make copies of important files

Use a backup utility for programs and system files

Keep copies in a different location —preferably off-site

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