FAQ: Archival Backup Service
SCS Computing Facilities provides data backup and restore solutions for registered computers in our environment. Our community handles valuable data on a daily basis and having backup software adds a tier of protection for issues that may occur in the future. We offer backup solutions to meet different computing scenarios. Historically, this service has been offered through Teradactyl’s True Incremental Backup System® (TiBS).
Effective November 13, 2025, the TiBS archival backup service is in containment and is scheduled to be retired after March 2026.
Please visit our Archival Backup Service page for up-to-date information on timelines and next steps.
How can I enroll in this service?
We are not currently accepting new system registration while TiBS is in containment.
We are actively evaluating new archival and backup solutions to replace TiBS, and updates will be posted on the Archival Backup Service page as they become available.
Which files are protected by this service?
This information applies to systems currently enrolled in TiBS.
In Windows operating systems, any lettered (mounted, formatted and accessible) drive, can be protected. On Unix based systems, only /usrN/ (where N is a number) are protected by default. Other partitions may not be protected. Visit our Archival Backup Service page for more information.
Is there a limit on the amount of data that can be protected?
This information applies to systems currently enrolled in TiBS.
Currently, there is no limit of data per person. TiBS does have a 5 TB (terabyte) partition limit.
How long will my data be protected?
This information applies to systems currently enrolled in TiBS.
New data ingestion will end after March 2026, however historical tape libraries will remain and be available for restores indefinitely. Please contact us if you have any concerns about retention as this policy can change.
How can I determine if my data is being protected?
This information applies to systems currently enrolled in TiBS.
If currently enrolled in the service, we provide access to a Backup Status Dashboard. This dashboard will provide insight into the last backup attempt and result. There is also a local computer program called LastBackup which reports on the computer's backup success. Visit the Archival Backup Service page for more information.
Can I limit how much network and CPU is used by this service?
This information applies to systems currently enrolled in TiBS.
No. The TiBS service is automated.
If my computer crashes, can I use this service to restore my operating system?
This information applies to systems currently enrolled in TiBS.
While this backup solution captures system files, please contact us for assistance in case of system failure. SCS Supported computers benefit from Apple, Dell and Lenovo certified technicians who can quickly diagnose the failure and determine a correct course of action for system restoration.
How does Archival Backup Service differ from the Data Protection Service?
The archival backup solution captures system files in the backup process unlike data protection, which will only sync data in your user profile. The Archival Backup Service is ideal for workstations or servers (and select laptop computers) which will connected to the wired network, on-campus.
|
Feature |
Data Protection (CrashPlan) |
Archiving (TiBS) |
|---|---|---|
|
Available from any network? |
Yes |
No |
|
Self service restore? |
Yes |
No |
|
Restore to other system? |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Data retention period? |
6 months |
Indefinite |
|
Data limit? |
No |
No |
|
Customize backup files? |
No |
No |
|
System restore possible? |
No |
Yes |
|
Data written to tape? |
No |
Yes |
|
Other support charges required? |
None |
Network |
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