How to Make a Linux Incremental Backup
Performing an incremental backup (as opposed to a full backup every time) is critical to the efficient, continued operation of a Linux desktop system or a Linux server. In either case, it is important to institute a policy of regular backups, preferably with the backed-up data removed to a remote location for storage. While there are many backup solutions available that can perform incremental backups, Simple Backup Suite will be used as an example here. Instructions for this article are based on the Gnome desktop environment.
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Instructions
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Install Simple Backup Suite if it isn't already in your system. See the Ubuntu Documentation link in Resources below to download the Simple Backup Suite.
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Configure Simple Backup Suite. Pull down the \"System\" menu, select \"Administration\" and then select \"Simple Backup Config.\"
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Click on the \"General\" tab and select \"Use Recommended Backup Settings.\"
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Click on the \"Include\" tab to add any directories you want to include in your backup. Click on the \"Exclude\" tab if there are directories that you specifically want to omit.
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Click on the \"Destination\" tab to change the default backup directory.
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Click on the \"Time\" directory to schedule the incremental backups as well as how often you want a full backup performed. Click on the \"Purging\" tab to set the period of time that older (redundant) files will be kept.
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Click the \"Backup Now!\" button to begin the incremental backup.
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Restore data files. Pull down the \"System\" menu, select \"Administration\" and then select \"Simple Backup Restore.\" Choose which files or directories you want to restore, and click \"Restore.\" Change any of the restore variables, such as the system that the files will be restored to, by clicking the \"Restore As\" button. You will be prompted to confirm that you do want to restore your choice. Click \"Yes.\"
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Check that the backups are being done by reviewing the backup storage media. Note that an incorrect configuration can result in backups not being done or being backed up to a location where they may be inaccessible when needed.
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Perform a full backup to a removable media (redundant) once a month (or more, if required), and move this information to a safe location (off site) that is different from your normal data storage location.
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Tips & Warnings
A good rule of thumb is to make sure that your backups are done as often as necessary so that a catastrophic data loss will not require you to reenter more data than would be comfortable for you to handle.\n\nIt is always better to back up more data than less.\n\nNever assume that your backups are retrievable;, make sure to do a test restore to ensure that your data can be accessed if needed.
Be advised, rewritable CDs and USB backup media have a limited lifespan. If you are using either of these media to store backups, them on a regular basis.
