Backing up a Windows PC with Bareos

This article will cover on how to install the Bareos Client for Windows to backup windows files. Although it is not necessary, the Bareos server should be installed first. This is to ensure that the some information, like the name of the Bareos Director has been set. In fact, that is the only information that is required from the server. The client is built specifically for windows and is smart enough to invoke the VSS service which allows it to backup files that are open by other applications.
Installation could not be easer.

1. Get the installation files from http://download.bareos.org/bareos/release/latest/windows.
2. Run the installation program, select FileDaemon.
   
3. Give the PC a name to identify itself. This is the Client Name.  Also enter the name of the Bareos Server.  In the Network Address box, you can enter the PC's IP address or it's DNS name.
   
   
4. The program will show the information that is required to be added to the Bareos Director. This will tell the Director where to find the client. Make note or save the client configuration information to be added to the Bareos Director.
5. The program will install the Bareos Client and set it so that it will start up automatically after the next restart. You can do a test now but you have to start the program manually. 
   

 You can test the backup of the PC by adding the above information into the Bareos Director configuration on the server and creating a job for it. Don't forget to restart the director for it to recognise the new configuration. Bareos has a windows fileset that is geared to backup all files on  the Windows PC.