From f97a2f5c382587c74ffc51fc8aacf4f28ce8574d Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Andrew David Wong Date: Mon, 31 Aug 2020 15:40:11 -0500 Subject: [PATCH] Update backup documentation - Add general introductory information and advice - Add test restore step - Minor language fixes - Minor source formatting improvements --- user/common-tasks/backup-restore.md | 26 ++++++++++++++++++-------- 1 file changed, 18 insertions(+), 8 deletions(-) diff --git a/user/common-tasks/backup-restore.md b/user/common-tasks/backup-restore.md index 94a5575f..99a9c2f2 100644 --- a/user/common-tasks/backup-restore.md +++ b/user/common-tasks/backup-restore.md @@ -11,20 +11,25 @@ redirect_from: Qubes Backup, Restoration, and Migration ======================================== -With Qubes, it's easy to back up and restore your whole system, as well as to migrate between two physical machines. +With Qubes, it's easy and secure to back up and restore your whole system, as well as to migrate between two physical machines. -These functions are integrated into Qube Manager. -There are also two command-line tools available which perform the same functions: `qvm-backup` and `qvm-backup-restore`. +These functions are integrated into the Qube Manager. +There are also two command-line tools available that perform the same functions: `qvm-backup` and `qvm-backup-restore`. + +It's extremely important to make regular backups of all the data you care about. +This is true of all computing, not just the use of Qubes. +Data loss can and does occur in myriad and unexpected ways. +A standard recommendation is to make backups at least weekly: three copies in two different formats, one off-site. Creating a Backup ----------------- 1. Go to **Applications menu -> System Tools -> Backup Qubes**. -This brings up the **Qubes Backup VMs** window. + This brings up the **Qubes Backup VMs** window. 2. Move the VMs that you want to back up to the right-hand **Selected** column. -VMs in the left-hand **Available** column will not be backed up. + VMs in the left-hand **Available** column will not be backed up. You may choose whether to compress backups by checking or unchecking the **Compress the backup** box. Normally this should be left on unless you have a specific reason otherwise. @@ -52,11 +57,16 @@ VMs in the left-hand **Available** column will not be backed up. **Warning: Saving the settings will result in your backup passphrase being saved in plaintext in dom0, so consider your threat model before checking this box.** 4. You will now see the summary of VMs to be backed up. -If there are any issues preventing the backup, they will be listed here and the **Next** button grayed out. + If there are any issues preventing the backup, they will be listed here and the **Next** button grayed out. 5. When you are ready, click **Next**. -Qubes will proceed to create your backup. -Once the progress bar has completed, you may click **Finish**. + Qubes will proceed to create your backup. + Once the progress bar has completed, you may click **Finish**. + +6. Test restore your backup. + Follow the [restore procedure](#restoring-from-a-backup), selecting **Verify backup integrity, do not restore the data**. + This step is optional but strongly recommended. + A backup is useless if you can't restore your data from it, and you can't be sure that your backup is good until you try to restore. Restoring from a Backup