As the pandemic continues, malware and online scams are on the rise. Plus, hard drive/server crashes can happen any time. In order to protect your Finex reporting and FS database (as well as everything else on your computer), regular backups are good practice.

At minimum, a monthly backup is recommended and you can simply re-write the backup copy each time you run it. This ensures that in the event of a crash or computer virus, your Finex will be updated to the most recent month in your backup, and we can get you back up and running faster, and with less lost data.

Because you likely have other important files stored on your PC that you want to protect in the event of a computer crash as well, backing up all of the files stored on your computer weekly or even daily would be the most ideal solution.

We’ll focus on backing up your Finex (CDIP) files. First, you want to choose the back up method that works best for you

• External Hard Drive: An easy option is to back up to an external hard drive, usually connected via USB. What size hard drive should I get? In Windows, take a look at the folder or drive location that you’ll be backing up to understand how much storage is needed. To back up Finex, go to C:\cdip and “View Properties” for that folder to find out how much storage is needed (for example, if your cdip folder is currently 2.5GB, getting a 3-4GB hard drive should be more than sufficient). Note that some experts recommend storing the external drive off site, to also protect from any natural disaster that could cause damage to your PC.
• Cloud Storage Solutions: There are various solutions available, many for free up to a certain storage amount, that only require a secure internet connection each time you want to run your back up. Microsoft has a cloud solution that has direct compatibility with Windows & Office Suite products, but other popular and easy to use solutions include Google Drive and Drop Box. Another bonus to this type of backup is that it doubles as an “offsite” solution – so that it can be recovered even if a natural disaster occurs where your PC is based. Many cloud solutions also offer a desktop program that will allow you to automate the backup process for you – safeguarding you from forgetting to do it manually, and also saving you time!

Backing up your Finex files is as simple as opening the external drive in Windows explorer, and then in a separate window opening your C:\ drive. Then, simply select the entire “cdip” folder and drag it into your external drive, and allow it to process as it copies. Note that each time you back up, you will be prompted to save a copy of replace the files – for simple recurring backups, simply replace the files each time.

The process is similar when manually backing up your Finex files using a cloud service. In your internet browser (or the cloud solution’s desktop client, if you have it), simply have your cloud back up folder open. Then, open your C:\ folder in Windows Explorer and repeat the same process as above – drag your cdip folder into the cloud folder, and replace the files.

Want to automate the back up process using Google Drive? Click here to learn how: CLICK HERE

You can also automate the backup process in Drop Box, more info here: MORE INFO

Need more help? Contact your business’ IT professional to get personalized support on backing up your files.