Back Up Your Data

Backing up your data is an important part of computer security.

Why back up?

Unfortunately, all personal computers are susceptible to data loss.

• Your computer could be stolen (especially if you don't use a security cable).
• You could accidentally drop your laptop.
• Your hard drive could crash without warning.
• A computer virus, worm, or trojan could irretrievably delete all your data (especially if you don't have a firewall or anti-virus software).
• An earthquake, flood, or other natural disaster could strike with little or no warning.
• Problems with your computer's operating system or applications could render it unable to start.

Recommendation

We recommend that you back up your data and schedule it to be done automatically on a regular basis.

How do I back up?

Some suggestions:

Windows

1. Windows Vista: Windows Backup and Restore Center
2. Windows XP: Back up manually or use Windows XP Backup utility
3. Windows XP: Use Backup to Protect Data
4. Google Directory: Computers > Software > Backup
5. CrashPlan
6. ElephantDrive
7. MozyHome

Mac OS

1. Apple OS 10.5 Leopard: Time Machine
2. Google Directory: Mac OS > Utilities > Backup
3. ArchiveMac
4. Carbon Copy Cloner
5. Carbonite
6. CrashPlan
7. ElephantDrive
8. iPodBackup: Automatic backups to an iPod on Mac OS X
9. MozyHome
10. Silverkeeper
11. SuperDuper!
12. Twin

Linux

1. Google Directory: Linux ... Backup
2. CrashPlan

Help? Feedback?

Try asking your question in the Craigslist computer forum. To provide feedback for this page, send the URL and your comments to Web & Data Services Manager Frank Farm at farmf@pharmacy.ucsf.edu.

Go To: Computer Security