A client computer backup method comprising maintaining a list of files allocated for back up and so determining if total file size is within a certain limit

摘要

A backup method for a client computer wherein a list of client data files 1401 allocated for back up is stored on the client computer, the total size of the listed files is compared with a predetermined limit 1409. Preferably if the total file size, of files allocated for backup, exceeds the predetermined limit a warning is displayed on the client computer 1413, similarly a warning is given when a second predetermined (hard) limit is attained 1414. Further preferable features include that the files allocated for backup are stored in a backup region of the client computer and that a current list of files allocated for backup 1401 is compared with a previously generated list 1403 allowing a difference list 1404 to be generated. Also disclosed are methods which include: receiving total file size data from each of a plurality of client computers and transmitting to each of the client computers a file size limit for which backup of files is permitted; comparison of a first file set and a second file set wherein identical files from the second file set are backed up by providing a pointer to the file in the first file set.