Using Time Machine, the Apple backup and restore center in OS X 10.5, is the easiest and fastest way to keep your data safe. Once it's setup, there's not much more you need to do unless the unthinkable happens and your computer's hard drive fails. Then, like magic, the Apple backup software kicks in and restores your computer onto the new drive.

While there are a number of backup options available, Time Machine may be the best option for your business. When you're selecting backup options, consider what the Macintosh backup & restore center can do for you:

1. Never lose more than an hour's worth of work with Time Machine, the Mac back-up system

2. You decide how often your system backs up

3. Use Apple backup in conjunction with Apple's Time Capsule for wireless backups

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Decide if the Macintosh backup and restore center is right for you

Taking the time to find out what others may think of Time Machine, the Apple backup system, can help you decide if the upgrade to Leopard is worth the money. Due to the fact that it is such a popular feature, there are a number of reviews online that focus specifically on that aspect of the newest Apple operating system.

I recommend: A great review of the Apple backup software Time Machine is on the Electronista website. In addition to the review, they have images of the software to give you an idea of the interface. For an incredibly detailed review of the software, including a drill down into the heart of the software, Ars Technica is the place to go.

Find or purchase the Apple backup & restore center

If you're running Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard, then you already have the Mac backup and restore center. Look for the Time Machine program. If you're running an earlier version of the OS, it might be time to upgrade and get your hands on the piece of mind that comes with Time Machine.

I recommend: Since Time Machine is an integrated part of the Apple Leopard operating system, getting a copy of the latest version is the only way to get a copy of the Apple backup software Time Machine. New Egg has Leopard for sale with single license and multi-user license options. MacMall also carries a selection of Leopard installs, including upgrade and full install versions, all of which include the Apple backup and restore center, Time Machine.

Learn how to use the Apple backup software Time Machine

Regardless of whether you have just installed Leopard or just learned about Time Machine, learning how to use the software can help you keep your data safe. Whether you have your backup drive on your desk, or you're backing up your files to a network drive, Apple backup software will help you keep your data safe.

I recommend: One of the premier places to get training and information on all things Apple, is Peachpit. You can find information on Time Machine and how to make the Mac backup and restore system work for you on their site. For those of you who want to delve a little deeper into the OS and make network backups a reality, Uneasy Silence offers a work around for helping the Apple backup software send your backups to a networked drive.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Apple also offers a backup system through their MobileMe subscription service. The cost is $99 a year and offers a number of various features including the Backup software.