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Backups and file transfers

Introduction When backing up your data, you need to consider several things, chiefly where are all the files you need to back up, and where are you going to store your backups? These topics are covered under backup sources and backup storage, respectively. In addition, you may wish to install software that will create backups for you automatically; this is covered under backup software, below.

Backup sources : What do you need to back up?

The backup 'source' is the set of files and folders that you want to back up, and may include your documents, email, pictures, music, desktop files, Endnote libraries, etc. It's important to know where these things are stored so that you can make sure that they are properly backed up. Alternately, you can back up your entire hard drive under some conditions, although this will take longer and consume considerably more storage space.

Backup storage : Where are you going to store your backup?

The options for storage space for your backups can include hard disk space on your computer(s), CD and DVD disks and other devices such as external hard drives or memory sticks, as well as network storage such as IU's CFS, Slashtmp, and HPSS services. Read more for details on storage options.

Backup software : Optional tools to help automate the backup process

It's easy to drag-and-drop your files to most of the storage media listed above, but sometimes it's worth it to install and configure software that can automatically back up certain directories on a regular basis (i.e. nightly or weekly). Below you'll find links to brief reviews of backup software for Macintosh and Windows computers.