Backing up your government Mac protects critical work from hardware failures, accidental deletion, and security incidents. While your agency handles many backup aspects automatically, understanding backup strategies helps ensure your data remains safe and recoverable.
Understanding Government Backup Policies
Government agencies approach backups differently than personal computing:
What Your Agency Typically Handles
- Enterprise backup solutions for critical data
- Server-side backup of network resources
- Email archiving and retention
- Recovery key escrow for encrypted devices
- Disaster recovery planning
Your Responsibilities
- Store important files in backed-up locations
- Follow data storage policies
- Report backup failures if you notice them
- Know how to request file recovery
Cloud-Based Backup Options
OneDrive for Business
If your agency uses Microsoft 365 Government:
- Desktop, Documents, and Downloads folders can sync to OneDrive
- Automatic backup to government cloud
- Version history for file recovery
- Accessible from multiple devices
Enabling OneDrive Backup
- Click OneDrive icon in menu bar
- Go to Preferences > Backup
- Select folders to back up
- Verify sync completes successfully
SharePoint Document Libraries
Store team documents in SharePoint:
- Automatic backup by Microsoft
- Version history maintained
- Recycle bin for deleted files
- Accessible to team members
Time Machine Backup
Apple’s built-in backup solution may be available in some government environments:
When Time Machine Works
- Approved encrypted external drive provided by IT
- Network Time Machine server available
- Policy permits local backup
Time Machine Best Practices
- Use only agency-approved, encrypted drives
- Let backups complete fully
- Don’t disconnect during backup
- Report backup failures to IT
Verifying Time Machine Status
- Click Time Machine icon in menu bar
- Check last backup date and time
- Ensure backups are completing regularly
Enterprise Backup Solutions
Your agency may deploy enterprise backup software:
Common Solutions
- Code42 CrashPlan: Continuous cloud backup
- Druva inSync: SaaS backup for endpoints
- Commvault: Enterprise data protection
- Veeam: Backup and recovery
How Enterprise Backup Works
- Runs automatically in background
- Backs up to secure government cloud
- IT manages retention and recovery
- May require initial configuration
What to Back Up
Critical Files
- Work documents and projects
- Email archives (if stored locally)
- Important downloads
- Custom templates and resources
What’s Already Protected
- Email on Exchange server
- Files in SharePoint/OneDrive
- Data in government applications
- Network drive contents
What NOT to Back Up
- Classified data (special handling required)
- Personal files (shouldn’t be on government systems)
- Pirated or unauthorized software
Data Recovery
Self-Service Recovery
Some data you can recover yourself:
- OneDrive version history
- SharePoint recycle bin
- Time Machine restore (if available)
- Email deleted items folder
IT-Assisted Recovery
Contact help desk for:
- Files beyond retention period
- Corrupted file recovery
- Full system restoration
- Recovery from security incidents
Recovery Request Tips
- Know the file name and location
- Estimate when file was last good
- Explain urgency and mission impact
- Be patient—recovery takes time
Backup Verification
Regular Checks
- Verify backup software is running
- Check last successful backup date
- Ensure backup storage has space
- Test recovery periodically
Before Major Changes
Confirm backups before:
- macOS updates
- Major software installations
- Hardware changes
- Extended travel
Disaster Preparedness
Know Your Recovery Options
- Who to contact for file recovery
- How long recovery typically takes
- What data is and isn’t backed up
- Emergency IT contact information
Prevent Data Loss
- Save work frequently
- Store files in backed-up locations
- Don’t rely solely on local storage
- Report any backup alerts promptly
Mobile Backup Considerations
When working remotely:
- Ensure VPN connection for cloud backup
- Let backups complete when on good network
- Carry encrypted external backup if approved
- Know offline recovery options
Reliable backup is your safety net against data loss. Understanding your agency’s backup infrastructure and following proper data storage practices ensures your work remains protected and recoverable when needed.
