Desktop Data Recovery Program
Beginning March 30, 2007, NASA Headquarters employees will have access to a fully automated data backup and recovery function for their essential data and e-mail files. The Desktop Data Recovery Program uses the Tivoli client to periodically backup user data from the desktop to a server. This will help prevent the loss of data from a hard drive failure or other catastrophic error. A scheduled backup service will run nightly from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. backing up selected files and folders for Macintosh and Windows computers. Users working during the backup window should not notice any significant change in system performance.
The selected files and folders that will be backed up are:
Windows XP computers:
- Local PST file (e-mail file containing stored messages and attachments)
- My Documents
- Browser bookmarks
- Desktop items
Macintosh computers:
- Entourage e-mail file (local email file storage, messages and attachments)
- Contents of Documents folder
- Desktop items
- Browser bookmarks
- Keychains
- Preferences
The Desktop Recovery Program is not mandatory for NASA Headquarters users. However, we highly recommend user participation in this program at least once a week. Although the service is scheduled to run nightly, it is totally up to each individual to determine how often a backup will be performed for their computer.
In order for a successful backup to take place, the following conditions must be met:
- Your computer must be powered on and connected to the HQ-wired network; and
- You must close all applications, turn off your computer and restart your system prior to leaving for the day. You do not need to log in.
It is important to note that backups will not occur on computers that are powered off and/or on any open files. In addition, users working remotely will not be backed up until they physically connect their computer to the HQ-wired network.
Please be advised that this backup service does not replace the need for routine manual backups of important files. This service is intended for disaster recovery only (i.e., in the event of a hard drive failure).
Below are instructions and screen shots for both Macintosh and Windows computer users to check their backup status.
Windows XP Users:
- Start
- Programs
- Tivoli Storage Manager
- Desktop Recovery Status
Macintosh Users:
- Applications
- Tivoli Storage Manager
- Desktop Recovery Status
Users may obtain additional information by clicking on the history button.
For more information on desktop recovery, view the: Desktop Recovery FAQ (97 KB Word doc).
Should you have any questions, please contact the IT Help Desk at 358-HELP (4357), 1-866-4NASAHQ (462-7247), service@hq.nasa.gov or http://www.odin.lmit.com/hq/helpdesk/servreqform.cfm.
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