News

BSD introduces CrashPlan for automated computer backups

CrashPlan provides a reliable safety net for your data, now available for both Windows and Mac users.

BSD Information Services is excited to announce the availability of CrashPlan for all members of the Biological Sciences Division. CrashPlan is an advanced, automated backup service that offers top-notch data protection. Its introduction to our division is a significant step towards securing our data and ensuring we have continuous access to critical information, whenever we need it.

This solution is being implemented to fill the gap between what you already store and share on Box and server shares. Despite the availability of cloud storage such as Box, many people still save important files directly to their desktop or laptop; we want to ensure that this data is protected as well in the event of a device failure and/or lost or stolen device.

Key Features and Benefits of CrashPlan:

  1. Automated Backups: CrashPlan offers continuous, real-time backup, meaning you never have to worry about scheduling or manually saving your work. Changes you make to your files are automatically saved, ensuring that your most recent data is always protected.
  2. Unlimited Storage: With CrashPlan, you have unlimited storage space for backing up your data. This means you can save as much information as you need without worrying about running out of storage space.
  3. Security and Privacy: CrashPlan uses end-to-end encryption to secure your data, both during transfer and when stored on their servers. Your data is for your eyes only.
  4. Easy Restoration: If you lose your data due to hardware failure, accidental deletion, or any other reason, you can restore your files quickly and easily using CrashPlan.
  5. Multi-device Support: CrashPlan is compatible with a wide range of devices. You can back up data from your workstations and laptops.
  6. Version Control: CrashPlan stores multiple versions of your files, allowing you to revert to an earlier version if needed. This feature can be invaluable when dealing with complex datasets or iterative research.

In essence, CrashPlan provides a reliable safety net for your data, giving you the peace of mind to focus on your core research and academic pursuits.

If you're interested in benefiting from CrashPlan, please review the setup guides for both Windows computers and Macs. Should you need assistance in getting things setup or wish to backup more than the default profile information, please reach out to your department technician or contact BSDIS-DSS at 773-834-4400 or via email at bsdis@bsd.uchicago.edu. For Windows users, the backup agent has been deployed to your network connected computer in an inactive state to help make it easier to set it up.

We encourage all BSD members to take advantage of this new service. It is a great investment in our collective data security and resilience, enabling us to carry on our valuable work in the Biological Sciences Division with even greater confidence.

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