If you accidentally delete a file or a file is damaged, it can be easily restored from the backup tape. ADSM runs on both PCs and Macs and backs up data files stored in a specific folder, Eudora mail files and Netscape bookmarks. Files in other directories and files associated with programs like Adobe Photoshop and Mathematica are not backed up. Data is protected through an encryption process that occurs at the time of backup and a password system, so that your data can be restored on your machine only. No one else will be able to access or decode your data files.
Backups occur automatically at night.
Users need to leave their machines on for backups to occur, but you can password protect your screensaver for added security. ITS will send you an email message if your data was not backed up and explain the reason for the problem. If you do not receive an email message, you can safely assume your files were successfully backed up. ITS staff members are currently installing ADSM on all faculty and staff computers on campus in order to minimize the risk of lost or damaged files. You may choose not to have ADSM installed on your machine, but it is important to maintain copies of important files on floppy and zip disks.