Leopard's Quick Desktop Backup
TMO Quick Tip - Leopard's Quick Desktop Backup
by , 7:30 AM EST, November 19th, 2007
Protecting your important files is a big deal, and Apple has given us a few options to help make backing up information easier. Mac OS X 10.5 brought us Time Machine, and .Mac users can take advantage of Backup, but Leopard also adds an easy way to backup just the contents on your Desktop.
![]() You can backup your Desktop files from the Finder. |
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Leopard's Burn "Desktop" to Disc feature does just that. You can find the option by selecting your Desktop folder, and then choosing File > Burn "Desktop" to Disc while in the Finder. The Finder will spend a minute or two preparing for the backup, and then will present you with a dialog asking for a blank CD or DVD. Inserting a disc in your Mac will begin the backup, or click the Cancel button to stop the process.
![]() The Finder asks for a blank disc when it is ready to backup your files. |
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Burn "Desktop" to Disc isn't a replacement for a good backup routine because it isn't automated, and it only copies files from your Desktop. It is, however, a great supplement -- especially if you tend to keep lots of files on your Desktop.
Of course, Apple tends to be pretty good with its follow-through on features. Try selecting different folders: You can use this feature to burn any folder on your hard drive to a CD or DVD.
Jeff Gamet is TMO's Morning Editor and Reviews Editor. He lectures, teaches and speaks on Mac OS X and design-related topics, and is the author of The Designer's Guide to Mac OS X from Peachpit Press.
if you have tips or tricks to share, or Mac-related questions you want answered.
Observer Comments
Quoteburrito wrote:
what's even cooler is that this doesn't just work for the desktop, but rather whatever the currently selected folder is..
You are absolutely correct, and it's a great example of Apple thinking about the little details. This is sure to save time for everyone that burns discs for specific folders, like work projects, on a regular basis.
Jeff
Sorry, but how is this really any different than, under Tiger, selecting your Desktop folder in a Finder window, and clicking the little Burn Disk button which can easily be added to the Finder window toolbar?
Mind you, I think that using this as a way to make back-ups of your currently important stuff is a great idea. Also, I like the fact that Apple added a very 'plain English' option for burning a folder, into the Finder's File menu. I'm just wondering how this is a 'new feature'.
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