How to Backup Your Tenant File Data
The Tenant File allows you to easily backup your valuable data and even reminds you at intervals. Just choose how often you want to be reminded and the Tenant File will let you know when it is time.
It is very important that you back up your data on a regular basis. This example shows that a backup folder has been created with weekly sub-folders. You can set up any folders that you wish to back up to, but be aware that any backup will overwrite the previous data unless it is in a separate folder. We also recommend that you make 'off site' backups of your data in case your computer is compromised. |
Backing up is as easy as clicking on the 'destination' ('Copy to' Drive/Folder on the right side of the screen) and then clicking on the big 'Start Copy/Restore Now' button at the bottom of the screen. Virtual Server uses don't even need to choose the 'destination' since it will be the 'Downloads' folder on their computer. The main database file (over 90% of your data) is already selected for you. This file is named TFDATAFL.MDB, and is definitely the file to backup often. However, you can choose to back up other files, such as the Inactive Tenant File (TFDATAOF.MDB), and the Features File (FEATURES.MDB). Also, you should sometimes back up your 'DAT' files, which are files that hold your settings, such as your check format, late fee charge settings, and other preferences.
On the right side of your screen, you will choose 'where' to back up to. Desktop users MUST choose a different folder than the initial one displayed, since that is the folder you are currently using. For the DESKTOP version, you can back up your files to any folder or external drive with a drive letter. For the VIRTUAL SERVER, it will always back up to your local 'Downloads' folder, then from there you can copy the file to any other media, such as a flash drive or USB drive.
NOTE FOR VIRTUAL SERVER USERS: If you already have older backups in your 'Downloads' folder, Windows will automatically assign a number to the file, such as TFDATAFL(2).MDB. If order for that file to be 'Restored' to the Tenant File, you will need to rename the file without the number and parentheses, such as TFDATAFL(2).MDB renamed to TFDATAFL.MDB. Be VERY careful when 'Restoring File(s) FROM' since that will OVERWRITE ALL OF YOUR CURRENT INFORMATION!
The Tenant File can remind you when it is time to back up your data. Just select one of the choices in the bottom left corner. Whenever you exit the program, it will check to see if it is time for another backup and take you to the correct screen to complete the backup.
On the right side of your screen, you will choose 'where' to back up to. Desktop users MUST choose a different folder than the initial one displayed, since that is the folder you are currently using. For the DESKTOP version, you can back up your files to any folder or external drive with a drive letter. For the VIRTUAL SERVER, it will always back up to your local 'Downloads' folder, then from there you can copy the file to any other media, such as a flash drive or USB drive.
NOTE FOR VIRTUAL SERVER USERS: If you already have older backups in your 'Downloads' folder, Windows will automatically assign a number to the file, such as TFDATAFL(2).MDB. If order for that file to be 'Restored' to the Tenant File, you will need to rename the file without the number and parentheses, such as TFDATAFL(2).MDB renamed to TFDATAFL.MDB. Be VERY careful when 'Restoring File(s) FROM' since that will OVERWRITE ALL OF YOUR CURRENT INFORMATION!
The Tenant File can remind you when it is time to back up your data. Just select one of the choices in the bottom left corner. Whenever you exit the program, it will check to see if it is time for another backup and take you to the correct screen to complete the backup.