Data Protection Service

Data Protection Service is available to SCS users for computers that are CMU-owned and running an operating system supported by SCS Computing Facilities.

The data protection system used on these platforms is CrashPlan. Important features of this service are:

• Data is copied while the client machine is connected to any network.

• Multiple restore points are possible for files that change often.

• Users may restore data themselves, either to the original client machine or to another system.

• Users may adjust, to an extent, what data is protected, as well as some operational characteristics of the client.

Important Notes

SCS hosts are not automatically enrolled in the SCS Data Protection Service; this must be requested. See the section below on how to tell if a host is being backed up if you are uncertain if your host is enrolled.

Data copied from hosts to the CrashPlan cloud is not archived to tape. Below is our data retention policy:

Frequency
Backup changes every: Every hour

Version retention
For one week, keep a version: Every 4 hours
After one week, keep a version: Every day
After 90 days, keep a version: Every week
After one year, keep a version: Every month
Remove deleted files: Every 6 months

In the default configuration, the mobile client checks for file changes every 60 minutes and uploads any changed file to the server. This interval is configurable by the user.

In order to enable SCS data protection, you must install the CrashPlan client software on your computer. When you register your computer for the data protection service, you will received an e-mail from SCS Computing Facilities with instructions on where to retrieve the client and how to configure it.

Determining What Data is Protected

By default CrashPlan will back up the primary system volume minus exclusions as of Summer 2026. Previously it backed up the user home directory by default.  To see a list of excluded data and directories visit this page.

If you would like other drives/folders defined for backup, you must open the CrashPlan client and specify those other locations.

Register for Data Protection Service

Before you can start using the CrashPlan client, you must register for SCS Data Protection Service.  New systems choose "Register Equipment" and existing systems use "Search, Update and Remove Equipment Support" Once your request for data protection service is complete you will get a confirmation email.  If you already registered and have received an email confirmation, you can proceed with the instructions below.

How to install CrashPlan

CrashPlan installers are available for all three supported operating systems (macOS, Windows and Ubuntu Linux). 

After the installation, an activation box will appear where you can enter the following information:

1. Enter your full andrew email address (username@andrew.cmu.edu)
2. Server: clients.us2.crashplan.com
3. Enter password: (Your Andrew password)
4. It should log you in and start backing up your files.

How to Restore Data

To perform a self-initiated, selective restore, you can use the instructions hosted via the vendor's website found here.

Restoring files in the CrashPlan app

To perform a full restore (after having your SCS computer rebuilt), you can use the CrashPlan client following these steps from the vendor.

Replacing your device

To request a restore online, complete the Data Restore Request form.  E-mail containing instructions on how to access restored files will be sent to you after the restore is complete.

For answers to frequently asked questions about the SCS data protection system, please see the SCS Data Protection FAQ page.