Risk Management

Implementing an iLaw Back up routine

Having a regular back up routine for iLaw is vital should you ever have problems with your server or PC running the database. Saving a backup of your iLaw database doesn't take long and is worth the peace of mind should there ever be a data loss. If something happens to your iLaw system, then a backup of your database and documents will help you to reload your client details, cost information and letters or documents created.

What you need to perform a backup of iLaw:

• Access to your server or the PC that acts as your iLaw database
• CD/ DVD or Storage device such as USB flash drive or hard disk storage device.

Whatever storage device you have you will need enough space for the iLaw Backup file including the Documents folder.

Performing a quick back up of the iLaw database and documents

1. Backing up the database
The PC or server that runs the iLaw database will have an iLaw folder situated on the C drive. If you cannot find the iLaw folder in C then check any other local drives installed.

The iLaw folder will have a subset of three folders; these are ‘Backup’, ‘Scripts’ and ‘shared’.

In the ‘Scripts’ folder, double-click on the ‘Backup.cmd’ file. The backup procedure will commence. A Command window will show the progression of the iLaw back up being made. When it has finished you will be prompted to press any key to continue.

2. Saving the backup folder
Come out of the ‘Scripts’ folder and into the ‘Backup’ folder. You should see two new iLaw backup files which you have just created. These files will be the entire iLaw database but does not include client documents, letters and attendance notes. Save the ‘Backup’ folder to your storage device. If you intend on making a CD or DVD backup then you may want to wait and save these files with the documents folder which we will look at next.

3. Saving the Documents folder
The ‘Documents’ folder is situated in the "iLawShared" folder. These are all the Letters and Documents that have been created for clients and accessible from the ‘Documents’ screen. Save this entire folder with the two backup files.

We recommend storing separate iLaw back up files "off site" so anywhere away from your office. You could also consider uploading your database and documents to dedicated web space using a web storage site.