Backup Windows

Introduction to the Windows File System

Unlike Linux, Windows has no strict conventions as to where files are to be stored. Any user can put any data almost anywhere within the filesystem without providing a root password. Windows setup leads most novice users to set themselves up as a superuser ("administrator") and operate as a superuser all the time.

Under newer versions of Windows, there is a feature called User Account Control (UAC) that does provide a bit of guidance as to where to place files, and a bit of warning when superuser privileges are exercised. However, all Window's well-intentioned warnings are easily waived with a click of the button. They are often ignored by users.

What to Backup

Given Windows stores user data all over the place, we backup all folders on a Windows hard drive, except the folders named "Program Files" and "Windows." These folders contain program data and operating system data, respectively.

Transferring the Data

User information shouldn't be left on the data box only on the network backup one. Also be sure to migrate to DVD as soon as possible.

Tar/zip all the files and directories to be saved then migrate all the information in these directories via network backup under the ISO format date -ticket number. Then see how much space the users information takes a back it up to DVDs Label DVDs to the users name and 1-X of how many they have and tape them together. Keep in mind we're charging them $3 per DVD, and $10 more to just do the backup.

Helping the User Find Data

Many Windows users do not know where there data is actually stored in the filesystem. Especially their "My Documents" and "Desktop" folders.

Under Windows XP, this data is stored under C:\Documents and Settings\[username]

Under Windows Vista or Windows 7 this data is under C:\Users\<Windows login or user name>\